Max Joy: Can we achieve security and resilience without sacrificing green ambitions?

Europe stands at a critical crossroads, caught between the urgency of accelerating the Green Transition and the rising priority of Security Transition.  Recent geopolitical tensions, which include diplomatic, information, economic and military have sharpened Europe’s focus on its defence and security resilience, and many now argue that this places a new light on the importance of the Green Transition. I disagree, because in my view, they are inextricably linked.

The aim of the Green Transition is to shift away from traditional, fossil-fuel based energy systems and practices towards sustainable, environmentally friendly approaches and technologies.  It requires a societal shift to reduce our environmental impact, combat climate change, promote biodiversity and enhance our energy efficiency.  It promises not just environmental benefits, but also long-term economic resilience and societal well-being.  This will require substantial investments from governments, businesses, and indeed individuals

As a result of rising geo-political tensions Europe has concluded that a fundamental part of security and resilience is energy security. In essence, secure and reliable energy supplies, which are independent of geo-political volatility.  It is worrying to see that short term decision-making, which may be necessary, is focusing upon traditional energy sources and we are in danger of losing sight of the real prize of security and resilience by means of the Green Transition. We are in danger of stall.

Framing the Green and Security Transitions as mutually exclusive paths is misleading. Instead, Europe should leverage these tensions as catalysts for innovation. Investing in renewable energy infrastructure, smart grids, energy storage solutions, and green hydrogen production not only decarbonises our energy systems but fundamentally strengthens energy security. Localising energy generation through renewables reduces vulnerability to international disruptions, and investing in energy efficiency helps mitigate both climate impacts and security risks simultaneously.  All of this must be underpinned by harnessing the opportunities of digitisation and AI.

We must not let the Green Transition ‘bubble’ burst, and so we must demonstrate courage and commitment.  Policymakers, business leaders, and experts must collaborate to ensure regulatory frameworks incentivise green investment while maintaining robust energy security standards. We must avoid short-sighted solutions that offer immediate relief at the expense of long-term goals.

At Sweco, we believe we have both a responsibility and business opportunity.  We intend to be role models in the Green Transition, both in collaboration with our clients and partners, but also within our own operations.  As green advocates, we will engage and influence policies and regulations and work collaboratively with stakeholders to produce sustainable initiatives and practices.