Count military emissions in climate plans, Quakers say
Quakers in Britain have joined more than 20 organisations in calling for the military's climate impact to be fully included in the UK's plans to tackle climate change.
In a letter to Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh, the groups say military activity is a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. These emissions are not being fully counted, they argue.
The coalition wants the Ministry of Defence to report its complete carbon footprint and should be included in plans to cut UK emissions.
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War is not only a humanitarian disaster. It is an environmental disaster too
- Paul Parker
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Among those signing the letter was Paul Parker, recording clerk for Quakers in Britain.
He said: "War is not only a humanitarian disaster. It is an environmental disaster too.
"Too often, the climate impact of military activity is left out of the conversation. If we are serious about reaching net zero, no sector should get a free pass.
"Neither climate breakdown nor war can be solved with bigger armies or more weapons. Lasting security comes from cooperation, diplomacy and investing in the solutions people and communities need."
The letter was sent during the Global Week of Action for Peace and Climate Justice, an international week of campaigning highlighting the links between war and climate change.
Other signatories included the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament and War on Want.
The coalition says that while the human cost of war is widely recognised, its environmental impact often receives far less attention.
It points to research estimating that military-related activity accounts for around 5.5 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions.
The organisations argue that emissions are produced throughout the military system, from manufacturing weapons and equipment to military exercises, operations and the rebuilding work that follows conflict.
They are calling on the government to ensure the Ministry of Defence reports its full emissions, including those generated through its supply chains.
The letter also asks the Climate Change Committee to assess how plans for increased military spending could affect the UK's climate goals.
Defence Minister Wes Streeting recommitted to increasing military spending to 3.5 per cent of GDP in his Labour Party conference speech this week.
Scientists for Global Responsibility estimate that the planned increase to 3.5 per cent across NATO will result in an increase in emissions greater than the whole of Brazil's.