Abstract
Military contribution to worldwide CO2 emissions is well-documented. In 2019, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) consumed 682 trillion BTUs, which represents up to 77% of U.S. federal government energy use. DoD operational energy use represents approximately 70% of DOD energy use. Operational use demand depends on the type of fuel available in local markets, the tempo of operations, long logistical tails, and need for energy reserves; it also relies heavily on aircraft and ships which are difficult to decarbonize. Given these factors and because operational energy users are less likely to have access to 100% carbon-free energy sources, multiple pathways to net-zero must be analyzed and understood. The 2021 Executive Order 14008, “Tackling the Climate Crisis at Home and Abroad” includes a U.S. goal of net-zero emissions by mid-century and makes this goal an essential element of U.S. national security. To meet these benchmarks, DoD has moved from a focus on high-level goals to identifying achievable pathways that can lead to net-zero emissions. Researchers undertook a broad study of strategies for Naval forces to achieve net-zero global emissions by 2050 to comply with Executive Order 14008 and to enhance mission readiness. This paper shares the current state of net zero efforts within the U.S. DoD, addressing the tensions of energy sources and mitigation, measuring responsibility in light of national security, and the role of public-private policy solutions.
Presenters
Kristen FletcherFaculty Associate-Research, Energy Academic Group, Naval Postgraduate School, California, United States Marina Lesse
Faculty Associate - Research, Energy Academic Group, Naval Postgraduate School, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Technical, Political, and Social Responses
KEYWORDS
National Security, Energy, Climate Mitigation, Net Zero Emissions
