Climate change: what should the Pentagon do?

• Author: Erwin, Sandra I.
• Position: WASHINGTON PULSE: NEWS FROM INSIDE THE BELTWAY

Among the topics that are being debated in the Quadrennial Defense Review is the impact of climate change on U.S. national security. The issue has been discussed at congressional hearings and various Washington summits but the Pentagon has yet to adopt specific policies to deal with the potential crises that may erupt around the globe as a result of climate change. Another undefined goal is how Defense can reduce its carbon footprint.

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"DOD's responses to these questions will shape our nation's future," says former Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Environmental Security Sherri Goodman.

Questions to be addressed in the QDR include:

* What role should the...