Security Risks Highlight Need for Climate Policy

A new report detailing the security threats of global warming is further evidence that a national policy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is urgently necessary, Republicans for Environmental Protection (REP), a national grassroots organization that includes elected officials as members, said today.

"The report, prepared by a distinguished, 11-member panel of retired generals and flag officers from all branches of the armed services, shows clearly that global warming is a threat multiplier that is likely to aggravate border tensions, resource disputes, and other sources of conflict in the world's trouble spots," REP Policy Director Jim DiPeso said. "America has a strong interest in reducing the climate-related risks that could lead to increased danger of war and terrorism."

"We applaud the panel for supporting measures to minimize the security risks of global warming, through reduced greenhouse gas emissions and other steps. Reducing dependence on oil is an essential part of the package, since oil is both a source of greenhouse gas emissions and a magnet for conflict," DiPeso said. "The experience and judgment of the panel members, which include Vice Admiral Richard Truly, USN (ret), former NASA administrator; General Gordon Sullivan, USA (ret), former Army Chief of Staff; and General Anthony Zinni, USMC (ret), former CENTCOM commander, lend great weight to their recommendations."

"For conservatives, ensuring the strongest possible defense of our country and the freedoms that we enjoy is fundamental. As the new report shows, strong measures to fight global warming are in the security interests of our country," REP Government Affairs Director David Jenkins said. "It is imperative that the administration and Congress act now to adopt a national climate policy that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by improving energy efficiency and accelerating adoption of cleaner energy technologies."

Republicans for Environmental Protection
www.rep.org