The Godmother of Climate and Security: Sherri Goodman on the National Security Risks of a Warming Planet

Sherri Goodman: The Godmother of Climate and Security

Climate change isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s a national security risk. In this episode of The Scientista Podcast, Sherri Goodman, the expert who coined the term “threat multiplier,” explains how climate-driven disasters are reshaping global defense strategies.

As a former Deputy Undersecretary of Defense, Goodman shares how the military is preparing for climate risks, why global alliances matter more than ever, and what it will take to build a safer, more resilient future.

If you care about security, climate action, or how science shapes policy, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Transcript

Sherri Goodman — The Godmother of Climate and Security

Sherri Goodman is a name you should know when it comes to climate and security. She’s the one who coined the term “threat multiplier”—a phrase that perfectly captures how climate change intensifies global risks. Often called the “godmother of climate and security,” Goodman has spent her career at the intersection of national defense and environmental policy. As the former Deputy Undersecretary of Defense for Environmental Security and Secretary-General of the International Military Council on Climate and Security, she’s been leading the charge in making governments and institutions take climate change seriously as a security threat.

In a recent episode of The Scientista Podcast, Goodman sat down with us to discuss the escalating risks of climate change, its impact on global security, and the urgent actions needed to prepare for what’s ahead. Here’s what we learned from our conversation.

Climate Change: A Security Crisis in the Making

It’s no secret that wildfires, hurricanes, and rising sea levels are getting worse. But what often gets overlooked is how these disasters threaten national and global security. According to Goodman, we’re nowhere near prepared for the intensity of what’s coming. “We have to be on a combat footing,” she warns, emphasizing that we need to treat climate threats with the same urgency as traditional military conflicts.

Ironically, the military—one of the world’s biggest polluters—has been at the forefront of recognizing and adapting to climate change. With innovations in clean energy and sustainable technology, the armed forces are working to reduce their carbon footprint. But as Goodman points out, “Nothing is happening fast enough.” The reality is that we’re already seeing the consequences, and without urgent action, they’ll only get worse.

The Power of Global Alliances

As climate change reshapes global power dynamics, strong alliances are more important than ever. Goodman highlights the role of NATO and initiatives like the NATO Climate and Security Center of Excellence in Montreal as critical players in global climate security. These partnerships help ensure that democratic nations stay ahead of the curve and don’t let adversarial countries like Russia and China dictate the terms of the future.

Greenland, for example, might not be on everyone’s radar, but it should be. Its rapidly melting ice sheets are contributing to rising sea levels, and its strategic location makes it a key player in global security. “What happens in the Arctic doesn’t stay in the Arctic,” Goodman stresses. As new trade routes open and geopolitical tensions rise, this region will play an even bigger role in international affairs.

Breaking Barriers: Women in STEM and Security

Goodman knows what it takes to break into male-dominated fields, and she has valuable advice for young women looking to do the same. “Use facts and evidence, build relationships, and know where you want to go,” she says. She also highlights the importance of mentorship and networking—something she actively engages in to help the next generation of women leaders.

But according to Goodman, it’s not just about getting a seat at the table—it’s about making your voice heard and driving real change.

The Time to Act Is Now

Climate change isn’t some far-off problem—it’s happening now, and its impacts are being felt everywhere. Whether through military preparedness, scientific innovation, or global cooperation, addressing this crisis requires immediate and large-scale action.

For deeper insights straight from Sherri Goodman herself, listen to our full conversation on the latest episode of The Scientista Podcast.

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