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

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

International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict aims to raise awareness about the environmental consequences and collateral damage resulting from armed conflicts. The objective of this day is to promote preventative measures and environmental safeguards amidst war and to mitigate its impacts on natural resources, ecosystems, and human health. The United Nations acknowledges that the environment is a critical component of sustainable development and that its preservation is indispensable to achieving peace on a global scale.

This important day was established by the United Nations General Assembly on November 5, 2001. It was inspired by the environmental devastation that occurred during the Gulf War in the early 1990s, such as massive oil spills and extensive fires that severely impacted local ecosystems. For Americans, this observance is an opportunity to reflect on the role that the United States has played in armed conflicts around the world and the ways in which environmental exploitation impacts both our international relations and national security.

In the United States, various organizations, policymakers, and environmental activists participate in the observance through commemorative events, discussions, and educational activities. The goal is to raise awareness and encourage public support for protecting the environment during armed conflicts, crisis mitigation, and development efforts. The International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict is held annually on November 6th.

Facts about this day

• According to the U.N Environment Programme, over the last 60 years, 40% of all domestic conflicts have been linked to an exploitation of natural resources.
• According to the Conflict and Environment Observatory, the largest militaries produce more carbon dioxide emissions than most of the world's countries combined.
• Decades of war have led to immense losses of natural resources in countries such as Afghanistan, Colombia, and Iraq. According to the U.N Environment Programme, deforestation rates reached levels nearing 95% in some areas of Afghanistan in 2018.
• During the Vietnam War, the United States used a chemical known as Agent Orange that led to devastating environmental and human health consequences. Following decades of clean-up and restoration efforts, this served as a significant lesson in preventing environmental exploitation in warfare.

In the News and Trending in the US for International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict

Top things to do in the US for this observance

• Research and discuss environmental impacts on your community. Find out how you can make a positive impact or change.
• Donate to reputable charities and organizations that help protect the environment. Some examples are One Percent for the Planet, One Tree Planted, and Eden Projects.
• Watch films and documentaries that detail harm to the environment. Here are our suggestions:
  Scarred Lands & Wounded Lives: The Environmental Footprint of War (2008)
  Anthropocene: The Human Epoch (2018)
  Pandora's Promise (2013)
• Organize clean-up drives in local parks, beaches, or other natural areas. Encourage community members to participate and highlight the importance of preserving the environment, especially during times of conflict.