The Royal Navy has come under fire after it was revealed it is considering the introduction of compulsory climate change courses for its sailors.
A leaked briefing paper, seen by The Daily Telegraph, suggested all personnel could attend online training sessions about the impact of climate change on defence.
The paper, which was published last autumn, said: “While this course is not yet mandated, it does provide a comprehensive overview on the science behind climate change and most importantly its relevance to defence.”
It added: “We are developing relationships with universities to offer enduring opportunities to use Royal Navy platforms for their research, such as this December’s deployment in HMS Protector with scientists from Portsmouth University onboard.”
The Royal Navy has been slammed for pushing forward compulsory climate change courses
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The document also claimed the Navy’s sustainability unit is “exploring opportunities” to study postgraduate courses on global warming.
Admiral Lord West, the former First Sea Lord, revealed he supported the move provided it does not go “stupid”.
He told The Telegraph: “Climate change is not more important than fighting the King’s enemies, so it has to be done with a balance.”
Andrew Montford, who heads up Net Zero Watch, called on Defence Secretary Grant Shapps to “get a grip” on the proposals.
He said: “Economic security and energy security have already been tossed aside, so it’s no surprise to see national security taking a back seat as well.”
Net Zero Scrutiny Group chairman Craig Mackinlay added: “Sadly nothing surprises me anymore.
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A number of leading figures in the Royal Navy have also spoken about the risk from climate change
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“The green blob keeps expanding and our public institutions appear to enjoy nothing better than getting distracted by fashionable causes.
“The Royal Navy once inspired awe and admiration but that legacy is being squandered.”
The move would come after the Royal Navy made optional climate changes courses available online.
A number of leading figures in the Royal Navy have also spoken about the risk from climate change.
Admiral Sir Tony Radakin warned melting ice caps could aid Chinese efforts in the Atlantic and Lieutenant General Richard Nugee claimed it could leave warships unable to operate due to rising sea temperatures.
Thanet South MP Craig Mackinlay criticised the rumoured move
PAThe Armed Forces is expected to hit net zero by 2050 as part of wider efforts to reach the target.
Sailors were already making efforts to achieve the feat, including by painting ships in “environmentally-friendly” paint.
A Royal Navy spokesman said: “The Royal Navy has a long history of conservation and sustainability and as mariners, we appreciate the vital importance of the sea to our nation and as a source of life for the planet.
“That’s why the Integrated Review and the Defence Command Paper outlines how climate change presents challenges for our security.
“This activity is part of how we understand and address the issues we face.”
