How can nature be used for national security, according to the EU official?

The EU official suggests rewilding land borders and utilizing natural defenses, such as dense vegetation and wetlands, to deter invasions and enhance security.

Which countries are rewilding their borders for defense?

Poland and Finland have rewilded border areas near Russia or its allies to make them more difficult for potential invaders to cross.

What other environmental issues does the EU official highlight as security concerns?

The official points to water scarcity and pollution across Europe, as well as the need for 'sponge cities' to combat floods and droughts, as critical security issues.

Home / Environment / Nature as a Weapon: EU Chief's Security Strategy

Nature as a Weapon: EU Chief's Security Strategy

9 Mar

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Summary

EU official suggests using nature for border security and defense.
Poland and Finland have rewilded border areas to deter potential invaders.
Restoring wetlands and natural defenses is key to national security.

Nature as a Weapon: EU Chief's Security Strategy

European Union Commissioner Jessika Roswall has proposed a novel approach to national security: rewilding land borders and utilizing natural defenses. She suggests that nature can serve as a crucial asset in deterring attacks and enhancing security, a strategy already implemented by Poland and Finland along their frontiers with Russia or its allies.

These nations have transformed border zones into more challenging terrains by allowing bushes and trees to grow, impeding easier passage. Roswall highlighted that restoring wetlands also creates natural barriers, making it difficult for heavy military equipment like tanks to advance.