How Climate Change Threatens Public Health and National Security

January 21, 2025

Climate change is no longer just an environmental issue—it’s a public health crisis and a national security threat.

With rising global temperatures leading to more severe weather patterns, the impacts of natural disasters on global stability, health systems, and national safety are becoming increasingly evident.

Continue reading to learn more about the interconnected threats posed by climate change to public health and national security, and how countries can better prepare for and mitigate these risks.

The Public Health Impacts of Climate Change

According to William F. Lyons, Director, Center for Global Resilience & Security at Norwich University, “Climate change exacerbates existing health challenges by increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, altering the distribution and prevalence of infectious diseases, and impacting air quality, food security, and water supply.”

This can lead to injuries and loss of life. Adaptation strategies are essential to mitigate these impacts and protect vulnerable populations.

Hurricanes, Floods, and Fires

Rising global temperatures are resulting in more frequent and intense hurricanes, floods, and fires. These extreme weather events overwhelm public health systems with the demand for disaster response, dealing with injuries, sanitation issues, and disease outbreaks.

Hurricane Maria's devastating impact on Puerto Rico exemplified how such natural disasters can strain healthcare facilities and resources, causing a cascade of public health challenges. In the aftermath of the hurricane, hospitals faced severe shortages of essential supplies, such as medications, medical equipment, and clean water, which hampered their ability to provide adequate care.

Furthermore, power outages disrupted crucial medical services, including surgeries and life-support systems, while damaged infrastructure hindered access to healthcare facilities, leaving many in remote areas without aid. This strain on resources led to increased vulnerability to infections and diseases, as sanitation systems and clean water supplies were compromised.

Droughts and Famine

Droughts disrupt agriculture and food supply, leading to famine and malnutrition, particularly affecting vulnerable populations. For example, recent droughts in East Africa have severely impacted local communities, causing widespread food shortages.

The global health implications are significant as these conditions contribute to weakened immune systems and increased susceptibility to diseases.

How Public Health and National Security Intersect

Public health and national security are deeply interconnected, as threats to health can also pose risks to national safety. Effective disease prevention and control measures are crucial for maintaining stability and resilience in society.

The Role of Public Health in National Security

Public health professionals play a crucial role in managing the aftermath of natural disasters and preventing further crises. Weak health systems can destabilize nations, leading to conflict and migration, posing national security implications.

The Ebola outbreak in West Africa demonstrates how public health crises can have profound impacts on global security.

The rapid spread of the virus disrupted local communities, overwhelmed healthcare systems, and posed significant challenges to international travel and trade. The outbreak underscored the importance of international collaboration in responding to health emergencies and demonstrated how such crises can quickly escalate, affecting economic stability, social cohesion, and political landscapes.

Investing in health infrastructure not only safeguards public health but also strengthens global security by preventing widespread disruptions and fostering resilience in the face of future threats.

Preparing for the Future—What Can Be Done?

While the potential impact of climate change may feel overwhelming, there are steps we can take to mitigate its impact. These include investing in education and innovation to equip future generations with the skills they need.

Disaster Preparedness and Public Health Infrastructure

As climate change leads to more frequent and severe weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and heatwaves, the demand on health services rises significantly.

Robust public health systems ensure that communities are prepared to respond quickly and effectively to these challenges. They can provide timely medical care, prevent the spread of diseases, and support recovery efforts.

Additionally, strong health systems can play a critical role in educating the public about preparedness measures and in coordinating with other sectors to mitigate the impacts of climate-related events.

Norwich’s Unique Perspective

Norwich University, the nation’s first private military college, trains future leaders who understand the link between resilience, health, and security.

"Our programs are designed to foster a comprehensive understanding of the challenges posed by climate change, ensuring our graduates are well-prepared to address these issues," says Dr. Karen Gaines, Provost and Dean of the Faculty at Norwich.

Norwich’s online public health programs include master’s degree, bachelor’s degree, and certificate programs. No matter which path you choose, you can benefit from:

An emphasis on military strategy and its role in disaster preparedness and response
Expertise in environmental health an engineering and their connection to public health issues
An educational experience focused on collaboration and innovation

If you’re eager to make a positive impact in your community and around the world, explore how Norwich’s online public health programs can equip you to take on the most pressing global challenges.