“As the world grapples with the intensifying impacts of climate change, the peace and security landscape is undergoing a transformation. The impacts of climate change range from extreme weather events to rising sea levels, biodiversity loss and ill health,” Dan Smith, SIPRI Director, wrote in the preface of the report.

Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) – largely based on machine learning – offer new possibilities for addressing climate-related security risks. They are particularly useful for addressing risks related to climate hazards and risks related to climate vulnerabilities and exposure.

“Advances in artificial intelligence (AI) offer possibilities for addressing climate-related security risks. AI can, for example, be used for developing early-warning systems for disasters so populations and communities can respond quicker to the effects and insecurities caused by climate change”, said Kyungmee Kim, lead author of the report from SIPRI.

Addressing climate-related security risks

This SIPRI Policy Report, funded by Mistra Geopolitics, outlines the opportunities that AI presents for managing climate-related security risks. It gives examples of the use of AI in the field and delves into the challenges – notably methodological and ethical – associated with the use of AI for climate security. The report concludes with recommendations for policymakers and researchers who are active in the field of climate security or who use AI for sustainability.

Managing vulnerabilities and exposure to climate change

Reducing the vulnerabilities and exposure to climate change is one of the key objectives of climate change adaptation. The risk of social tensions and conflict can be addressed if adaptation efforts are designed with considerations for inclusivity and justice. AI-powered information systems and tools can assist governments, civil society and international actors with designing climate change-adaptation efforts to address context-specific and targeted climate-related security risks.

“Research such as this policy report, which critically reflects on the challenges that AI harbours, can contribute to and guide conversations, promoting the potential for AI to play an even greater role in ensuring a secure and sustainable future,” wrote SIPRI’s Director Dan Smith.