Ep. 003: The Rising Tide of Climate (in)Security With Lt Gen Richard Nugee

In this episode, we discuss Tom's evolution to a 'reluctant eco-warrior' and co-founder of the Grange Project. We were then privileged to be joined by Lt Gen Richard Nugee who introduced us to the Climate Change and Sustainability Strategic Approach report he authored about the importance of a climate prepared defence force. We discuss the concerns an average British citizen should harbour about the report and make links between the ongoing cost of living crisis and narratives surrounding climate change.

Richard brings an interesting perspective to the table, portraying the UK as one of the 'luckiest countries' in relation to climate change, and we discuss the issue of climate-induced migration, particularly its potential impact on Northern Europe. The episode closes with Richard sharing his reflections on the impact of the report, followed by Chloe and Tom pondering over the daunting challenges that lie ahead.

Your Hosts

• Tom Constable: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-constable/
• Chloe Constable: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloe-constable-24155821b/

Our Guest

Lt Gen Richard Nugee is a highly decorated and experienced retired officer of the British Army. His extensive military career spans over three decades, during which he has held several prestigious roles, including serving as Chief of Defence People for the UK Ministry of Defence. His unique insights into the intersection between national security and climate change are incredibly valuable, as he is deeply knowledgeable about the security challenges posed by our changing climate. Known for his strategic thinking and nuanced understanding of global threats, Lt Gen Richard Nugee is a compelling voice in the critical conversation about the impacts of climate change on military operations and national security.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-nugee-cb-cvo-cbe-7633367/?originalSubdomain=uk

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• Email: [email protected]
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• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-constable/

Listen out for:

• [00:01:45] Chloe reflects with Tom about his journey to becoming a co-founder of the Grange Project and a ‘reluctant eco warrior’.
• [00:05:48] Richard introduces himself and the Climate Change and Sustainability Strategic Approach report.
• [00:15:27] Discussion about what the average British citizen should be most concerned about from the report.
• [00:23:22] The connections between the cost of living crisis and narratives around climate change, from absolutes to relatives.
• [00:27:27] Richard describes how the UK is one of the ‘luckiest countries in the world’ with respect to climate change, and the problems this creates in generating motivation for change.
• [00:32:53] The unique factors associated with climate migration and the impact this could have on Northern Europe.
• [00:40:50] Richard’s perception of the impact of his report and his personal connections to climate change.
• [00:48:17] Chloe and Tom reflect on the interview and the hard challenges facing us.

Keen for more:  

Report

This report emphasises the pivotal role that Defence has to play in tackling climate change and adapting to its far-reaching impacts. Recognising climate change as an international priority and a global challenge, the report highlights the UK Government's commitment to sustainability and while noting the advances in climate-friendly practices, the report asserts the need for more drastic measures, including a strategic approach towards adaptation and resilience, sustainability and net-zero goals, and global leadership. The report emphasises that a climate-prepared Defence is necessary for the strength and security of the UK.

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/973707/20210326_Climate_Change_Sust_Strategy_v1.pdf

Mentioned in this episode:

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Would you like to escape the trappings of the modern world and wake-up in the morning to one of the best views in South Wales, where only the birds are noisy? We have two beautiful and sustainably built ‘tiny homes’, carefully located in secluded locations across our 80 acre rewilding project.

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