Climate change has resulted in slow-onset changes – notably gradual temperature increases, rising sea levels, biodiversity loss, ocean acidification, land and forest degradation, and salinisation. The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events are also increasing, including floods, droughts, wildfires and extreme heatwaves. The relationship between climate change, peace and security has implications for all Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 2: Zero Hunger; SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities (Migration and Displacement); SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities; and SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.

Climate change disrupts where people live, what they can eat, and how they earn a living. Limiting the warming of the planet also means limiting the number of lives affected by climate-generated fragility and conflict. Effective climate adaptation and building resilience are therefore closely tied to effective peace-building and our progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.