International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict (PEEWAC)

Context

November 6th is recognized as the International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict, established by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2001 to raise awareness of the environmental damage caused by warfare.

Key Focus Areas

• Environmental Protection During Conflict: Emphasizes the critical need to protect ecosystems in conflict zones, as environmental preservation is essential to human survival and future stability.
• Peacebuilding through Environmental Sustainability: Integrates environmental considerations into peacebuilding efforts, supporting sustainable recovery post-conflict.
• Global Cooperation: Urges international dialogue and cooperation to develop strategies that limit environmental damage during armed conflicts.
• Strengthening Legal Protections: Advocates for the enforcement of international laws, such as those in the Geneva Conventions, which prohibit war tactics that severely harm the environment.

Environmental Impact of Wars

• Habitat and Infrastructure Loss: Military operations and infrastructure development destroy natural habitats, causing extensive plant and animal losses.
• Soil Contamination: Chemical weapons, landmines, and unexploded ordnance contaminate soil, rendering it infertile and hazardous.
• Water Pollution: Oil spills, chemical spills, and damage to water facilities pollute water sources, affecting both people and ecosystems.
• Carbon Emissions: Military activities and reliance on fossil fuels increase greenhouse gas emissions, worsening climate change.
• Gender-specific Health Risks: Reports from UN Women and WHO reveal that women in conflict zones face increased vulnerability to communicable diseases and health challenges.

Environmental Fallout in Conflict Zones

Gaza

• UNEP Findings: Rising pollution and collapsed sanitation systems in Gaza endanger health and food security. Leftover explosive debris, including unexploded bombs, poses ongoing risks.
• Health Risks for Women: Around 162,000 women are at increased risk of non-communicable diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.

Ukraine

• Air Pollution: Bombings have intensified air pollution through elevated fine particulate matter concentrations, affecting health and climate resilience.
• Global Food Security: The conflict disrupts global food supplies, as Russia and Ukraine are major suppliers of food and fertilizers, impacting food security worldwide.