Today, it is increasingly clear that linkages between the
environment and security are powerful and important. Whether
viewed through the lens of human security common to much of the
development community or seen through the lens of instability
and conflict characteristic of the traditional security
community, environmental security has emerged as a central
policy concern for countries across the world. Policymakers
often overlook the extent to which environmental stresses can
undermine social and political stability, impede economic
development, and generate conflict. Yet the effective
governance, sound management, and sustainable use of natural
resources are vital to human security, political stability, and
conflict prevention. Environmental threatsor the misuse and
abuse of resourcesweaken economies, impoverish populations, and
increase the risk of political strife and violent conflict.
Climate change is increasing these environmental stresses and
adding to the potential for conflict in unstable regions of