UK spy chiefs warned government ministers about the catastrophic national security impacts stemming from the collapse of vital global ecosystems, driven by the climate crisis and overexploitation of nature. This report, which was expected to be published almost a year ago, was suppressed under Keir Starmer.
The government is now briefing foreign ministers from other countries on the report's findings. This action aims to gather global support for more concerted efforts to address the identified risks.
The report, the first of its kind, outlines stark warnings of catastrophic risks to the UK, including potential food shortages, conflicts, and mass migration. It also mentions other threats to national security, such as the risk of nuclear war or societal breakdown. These impacts are not considered remote, with disastrous effects on the UK's food supply potentially occurring as soon as 2030.
The report, commissioned under the previous Tory government, examined scenarios like the collapse of the Amazon rainforest. It found these could lead to food shortages in the UK, which imports approximately 40% of its food. Other issues reviewed included new pandemics, border disputes, increased Russian and Chinese influence over critical mineral supply chains, and civil tensions within the UK.
Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband made a presentation on the findings at a private meeting with some foreign counterparts on Wednesday night. This week, the government has taken initial steps to act on the report's findings, under Mr Miliband's guidance and with the backing of Prime Minister Andy Burnham.
Mr Miliband announced £330m for the Global Environment Fund (GEF) and £400m for Brazil’s Tropical Forests Forever Facility (TFFF).