The Arctic is a region of increasing concern. The area has become a geopolitical hotspot because glaciers and sea ice are melting at record speed due to climate change, uncovering mineral resources and opening up alternative sea routes. The land under the Arctic Sea is claimed by Russia and NATO allies, who are at loggerheads since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia. New military investments and expanded scientific explorations reflect the interest in the vast resources of the region and in the new and shorter sea lanes that are becoming available between east and west.

This article was originally published by the Elcano Royal Institute, December 2024.  

Each year, leading scientists from around the world review the most pressing findings in climate change-related research. Summarized into 10 concise insights, this year's report responds to clear calls for policy guidance during this climate-critical decade. 

This December, the United Nation Convention to Combat Desertification’s 16th Conference of Parties (UNCCD COP16) brought together world leaders to discuss desertification, land degradation and drought, all of which have detrimental impacts on planetary security well beyond climate change.

Journal article "Optimal control of polar sea-ice near its tipping points", published by Nature, November 2024. 

New publication by European Defence Agency, October 2024

In an era marked by profound environmental challenges and geopolitical complexities, the intersection of climate change, energy, and defence has emerged as a critical area of inquiry. As the EU advances towards its ambitious goal of carbon neutrality by 2050, the defence sector must navigate this transformative landscape, balancing operational effectiveness with energy transition and climate change adaptation. 

Blogpost by the Council on Strategic Risks, December 2024. 

Working paper by the by the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI), December 2024.