Electromagnetic Pulse and the U.S. Food Security Paradigm: Assumptions, Risks, and Recommendations

Maximilian Leeds, University of California, Los Angeles School of Law

Abstract

This paper analyzes the systemic dangers posed to the U.S. economy by an electromagnetic pulse (EMP), either naturally occurring or maliciously generated, from a food security perspective. Section I examines the modern structure of the U.S. food supply chain, analyzing the just-in-time international distribution model and criticizing it as vulnerable to systemic shock and cascade failure. Section II examines the function and history of the electromagnetic pulse, assesses its potential to serve as a catalyst for systemic breakdown in the domestic food supply chain, and explores the current state of food security planning in the United States pertaining to this issue. Section III examines possible solutions, ultimately concluding that the implementation, funding and expansion of locally and regionally grown food is a critically important national security tool, one which can serve as an adaptable and sustainable defense both against the possibility of electromagnetic pulse as well as less severe systemic threats.