Super Wicked Problems: The Shared Challenges of Climate Change and Cyber and the Viability of Shared Solutions.

Abstract

The commonalities between climate change and the threats posed by cyber are apparent and meaningful. Both challenges are transnational in nature, act as threat multipliers, and are self-induced results of human action. Their potentially negative impacts largely devolve upon the global commons. In each arena, the implementation of countermeasures has produced a modicum of success, but enhancements are undoubtedly necessary and evolving. My research is centers on: what successful techniques or approaches among existing international, national, public, and private initiatives addressing climate change can guide a new developmental framework for addressing other international governance challenges, especially regarding norms in cyberspace? I evaluate and contrast existing international treaties and case law to develop prospective linkages between climate and cyber to assist in countering these dual threats. This thesis holds broad implications, as climate change and cyberthreats pose two of the most significant threats to global – and U.S. national – security. While differences exist, the commonalities in these threats offer prospective opportunities for shared solutions. Contending with both hazards involves mitigation, adaptation, and recovery: to the extent that mitigation is not completely viable, adaptation is necessary, and likewise, without adaptation, recovery is required. Similarly, there are prospective opportunities for shared solutions in regulation and oversight. Moreover, shared cooperative structures – at the international, national, and regional level, as well as across public and private enterprise – will be necessary to successfully confront each of these challenges.