Using Intelligence Data for Environmental Needs. Balancing National Interests,
Abstract
The end of the cold war and changing national security threats have sparked major debates on the purpose, roles, and functions of the U.S. intelligence community. At the same time, increasing interest in the global environment has raised awareness of how environmental hazards, including natural disasters, can threaten the security of the United States. The United States has an impressive array of technical systems with which to monitor large areas of the earth, oceans, and atmosphere for national security purposes. These systems have collected sophisticated datasets that span decades, resulting in a unique historical record. These systems also constitute a continuing capability for environmental monitoring, should that be desired. A key question facing policymakers and intelligence community managers is whether and how to balance routine unclassified environmental activities with traditional intelligence missions and requirements. This question is related to larger debates over the future of the intelligence community as well as narrower objectives of deriving benefits from specific environmental projects using intelligence data. This report discusses the stakeholders, interests, opportunities, and risks for the United States in greater use of intelligence data for environmental purposes by civil agencies, universities, and industry.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA322487
Entities
People
- Beth E. Lachman
- Kevin M. O'connell
- Scott Pace
Organizations
- RAND Corporation