The militarisation of societies, and the industrialisation of warfare, are major (and often hidden) causes of environmental damage and climate change. The concept of “security” is mixed up with usage of vast resources to make constant preparation for war and increase readiness to destroy the planet. From the carbon boot-print of military activity to the wider costs of conflict; from corporate greed to the role of militarized suppression of dissent – this session will look at the critical intersections between militarism and the climate crisis – and how these can be challenged. As one exacerbates and intensifies the other – it is ‘from the ground up’ that we resist; it is from the ground up that we take action.

Organised by GCOMS UK supporting organisations as part of From the Ground Up: Taking Action, a global gathering for climate justice, taking place from 22-25 April 2021 and organised by the COP26 Coalition.