The US military is planning for societal collapse

A Pentagon-commissioned report, "Implications of Climate Change for the U.S. Army," presents a stark warning: within the next two decades, climate change could precipitate a collapse of the U.S. military. The report, developed by senior officials from the Army, Defense Intelligence Agency, and NASA, underscores the urgent need for the Pentagon to prepare for potential failures in domestic power, water, and food systems due to climate impacts.

Two critical scenarios are highlighted: the potential collapse of the power grid and the outbreak of disease epidemics, both of which could be triggered by climate change in the near term. The report notes that increased energy demands from prolonged periods of heat, drought, and cold could overwhelm an already fragile system. Additionally, the U.S. military may need to engage in foreign interventions akin to the conflict in Syria, as climate-related impacts destabilize regions like Bangladesh, which is identified as highly vulnerable.

The report paints a grim picture of a nation unraveling over the next 20 years due to climate-induced disruptions to natural systems such as oceans, rivers, and forests. It emphasizes that most critical infrastructures are not designed to withstand these altered conditions, with 80% of U.S. agricultural exports and 78% of imports being waterborne, highlighting the vulnerability of supply chains.

In summary, the U.S. military is actively strategizing for a future where societal collapse, driven by climate change, poses a significant threat to national security. The report calls for immediate reforms to prevent the military from being overwhelmed by the cascading effects of climate collapse.