European Green Deal for militaries to strengthen Europe’s Defence

This Clingendael policy brief points out six wins for the EU when decarbonising the military. Currently the sector is largely omitted from European Green Deal policies, despite it generating considerable emissions and the existence of real advantages from becoming less dependent on fossil fuels. The low carbon energy transition can enhance strategic autonomy, reduce foreign import costs and improve operational effectiveness. It can help to modernise the army and stay ahead of the game in a time of geopolitical turmoil. For the EU, it can be an opportunity to innovate and strengthen its competitive edge in green military technology. Including the military in the European Green Deal would be a boost to the EU’s international credibility on climate change.

Download policy brief.