National Strategies

Green Defence Procurement is an evolving approach within the defence sector that integrates environmental considerations into the procurement process of military equipment, goods, and services. This strategic shift aims to minimise the environmental impact of defence activities by prioritising products that meet both performance criteria and sustainability criteria. Green Defence Procurement encompasses various aspects, including the selection of materials with lower carbon footprints, the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, and the promotion of circular economy principles such as recycling and waste reduction throughout the lifecycle of military assets.

Within recent years, numerous national strategies on climate change and defence have been developed on a national level. They include references and objectives to adopting sustainability indicators into procurement decisions..

National policies are increasingly intertwining with green defence procurement as nations prioritise addressing the climate-security nexus. This involves not only limiting the usage of substances detrimental to human health and the environment in sector-specific goods but also promoting sustainable practices in terms of materials and energy within defense operations. These policies underscore a broader commitment to environmental responsibility and resilience within the defence sector.

A reference to the EU Joint Communication on the climate and security nexus and a selection of existing national strategies can be found below:

EU) European Union – Joint Communication on the Climate-Security Nexus

2023.The European Commission (EC), the European Union External Action Service (EEAS), and the European Defence Agency (EDA) are exploring the challenges and opportunities of green public procurement for defence, aiming to integrate sustainability into procurement practices. They are also establishing mechanisms, like the Climate and Defence Support Mechanism and a Climate, Security and Defence Training Platform, to address climate adaptation and mitigation in military operations.

(DE) Germany – Strategy on Defence and Climate Change

The “Bundeswehr” is adapting to climate change by preparing personnel and ensuring military equipment can operate under extreme conditions. This includes incorporating synthetic fuels and alternative energy sources, enhancing the resilience of defence infrastructure, and updating logistics for battlefield mobility. Climate considerations are integrated into planning, procurement, and capability development processes, with a focus on long-term agility, dynamic technological solutions, and alignment with NATO’s requirements.

(FR) France – Climate & Defence Strategy

2022.The French defence procurement agency (“DGA”) is addressing climate risks early in the procurement process, ensuring equipment remains effective over long lifecycles, despite evolving environmental conditions. They will enhance climate risk anticipation and integrate feedback from the field more rapidly into future designs, ensuring long-term technological superiority of weapons systems through continuous innovation and improved planning.

(SE) Sweden – The joint work of the Defence Sector towards a non-toxic environment

The Swedish Defence Sector’s "Criteria Document" regulates the use of chemical substances in products like vehicles, uniforms, and electronics to minimise environmental and health risks. It sets stricter requirements than current EU legislation (REACH, CLP), restricting harmful chemicals such as carcinogens, mutagens, and greenhouse gases. By updating annually and ensuring compliance from both EU and non-EU suppliers, the document supports Sweden's national goal of achieving a "Non-toxic Environment" while promoting safer chemical development.

Canada – Defence Energy and Environment Strategy

2020.The Canadian Defence Department emphasizes green procurement by integrating environmental and energy considerations into purchasing decisions. Updated directives promote carbon reduction, sustainable materials, and green technologies, particularly in construction and packaging. Defence aims to procure energy-efficient military equipment with a life-cycle approach to minimise environmental impacts and operational costs, while also working on a sustainable packaging solution through consultations with industry.

US – DoD’s Climate Adaptation Plan

2021.The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) is integrating climate adaptation and cost management, including life-cycle costs, into procurement strategies and infrastructure management to mitigate climate-related risks. This involves updating cost estimation and investment processes, driving transparency across supply chains, and emphasizing sustainable procurement to minimise environmental impacts. The DOD aims to enhance resilience by leveraging collaborative adaptation strategies and improving the sustainability of critical infrastructure and supply chains.

Accordion with Images, Titles, and Descriptions

3c559ce1-b98e-414e-87b3-8b4905404e31

IF (we) “CEED’, we harvest!

IF CEED data protection - Privacy statement