Climate Change on the Battlefield: International Military Responses to the Climate Crisis with Erin Sikorsky

Climate Change on the Battlefield: International Military Responses to the Climate Crisis with Erin Sikorsky

36:13 Aug 25, 2025
About this episode
In episode 235 of America Adapts, host Doug Parsons speaks with Erin Sikorsky, Director of the Center for Climate and Security and author of the new book Climate Change on the Battlefield. Erin explains how climate change is already impacting global security—degrading military readiness, increasing conflict risks, and forcing new missions on defense forces worldwide. We explore how national adaptation plans can serve as strategic tools, the dangers of political backsliding in the U.S., and how China's assertive adaptation strategy may reshape global power dynamics. Erin also highlights countries that are getting it right—successfully integrating climate risk into military and national planning. This is a must-listen for anyone working at the intersection of climate, defense, policy, or global stability. Check out the America Adapts Media Kit here! Subscribe to the America Adapts newsletter here. Donate to America Adapts Listen to America Adapts on your favorite app here! Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter: https://www.facebook.com/americaadapts/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-parsons-america-adapts/ https://bsky.app/profile/americaadapts.bsky.social Links in this episode: Leaving the Island podcast series: leavingtheislandpod.com https://www.amazon.com/Climate-Change-Battlefield-International-Contemporary/dp/1350407666 https://climateandsecurity.org/erin-sikorsky/ Doug Parsons and Speaking Opportunities: If you are interested in having Doug speak at corporate and conference events, sharing his unique, expert perspective on adaptation in an entertaining and informative way, more information can be found
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