Global biodiversity loss, ecosystem collapse and national security

This UK Government assessment examines how biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse could threaten national security, economic stability and human wellbeing. Drawing on scientific evidence and expert judgement, it identifies critical ecosystems whose degradation could disrupt global food production, freshwater availability, climate regulation and supply chains.

The assessment highlights the potential for cascading consequences, including food insecurity, infectious disease outbreaks, population displacement, economic disruption and geopolitical instability. It identifies the Amazon and Congo rainforests, boreal forests, the Himalayas, and Southeast Asian coral reefs and mangroves as particularly significant for UK security.

Using national security assessment methods, the report considers possible ecosystem collapse scenarios through 2030, 2050 and beyond, while acknowledging substantial uncertainty around their timing. It emphasises the importance of protecting and restoring ecosystems and strengthening food systems and supply-chain resilience.

Access requirements: Free, publicly accessible UK Government report. No registration, login or payment required. Available as a downloadable PDF and accessible HTML version.

Citation: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs. Global biodiversity loss, ecosystem collapse and national security: a national security assessment [Internet]. London: UK Government; 2026. Available from: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nature-security-assessment-on-global-biodiversity-loss-ecosystem-collapse-and-national-security