The Environment and Human Security

To understand the link between the environment and human security, the water–food–energy nexus is critical. Indeed, a growing body of literature shows how environmental degradation and change fundamentally affect the livelihood of people around the world, especially through pathways related to water, food, and energy. In fragile and conflict-affected states, environmental change, in particular, exacerbates societal instability and is linked to sustained conflict. In this chapter, we provide a state-of-the-art overview of the interlinkages of the environment and human security by looking at both the risks and opportunities. We provide specific linkages to the key determinants of human security, namely food, water, and energy, and illustrate the connection with case studies.