Obama tells Coast Guard grads climate change threatens US
Updated: 2015-05-21 09:58
(Agencies)
|
|||||||||||
NEW LONDON, Conn., - Rising seas and thawing permafrost caused by warmer global temperatures threaten US military bases and will change the way the US armed services defend the country, US President Barack Obama said on Wednesday.
In a commencement address at the United States Coast Guard Academy, Obama underscored the risks to national security posed by climate change, one of his top priorities for action in his remaining 19 months in office.
"The threat of a changing climate cuts to the very core of your service," Obama told the 224 graduating cadets, who studied the impacts of global warming as part of their curriculum.
"It will affect everything that you do in your careers," Obama added, noting that sea levels were expected to rise by 1 to 4 feet (30-120 cm) in the coming century.
The Pentagon is assessing the vulnerability to climate change of its 7,000 bases, installations and facilities, many of which are on the coast, the White House said.
Obama highlighted damage to the navy and air bases at Norfolk, Virginia, from increasing floods.
Coast guard operations in Alaska have already begun dealing with changes, Admiral Paul Zukunft, commandant of the Coast Guard, told cadets.
Related Stories
US would consider military force to defend Gulf nations: Obama 2015-05-15 09:24
Obama meets two Saudi princes after King sent regrets 2015-05-14 10:40
Senate Democrats block action on Obama's trade agenda 2015-05-13 09:59
US rejects notion that Gulf rulers snubbing Obama summit 2015-05-12 10:58
White House says not rule out Obama's visit to Cuba 2015-05-12 06:52
Today's Top News
China, Brazil launch new era of economic relations
China jumps 28 positions in global tourism competitiveness ranking
Xiaomi debuts in US, Europe with online store
Milan Expo highlights need to ensure healthy, safe, sufficient food for all
Brazil embraces third wave of Chinese investment
China eyes 'capacity exports' to sustain growth
US signs new loan guarantee agreement for Ukraine
Editorial: Support for Hong Kong reform plan overwhelming
Hot Topics
Lunar probe , China growth forecasts, Emission rules get tougher, China seen through 'colored lens', International board,
Editor's Picks
Premier Li embarks on Latin America visit |
What do we know about AIIB |
Full coverage of Boao Forum for Asia |
Annual legislative and political advisory sessions |
Festival Special: Apps that make holiday shopping easier |
Listed firms caught in anti-corruption net |