As I watched the harrowing scenes from Gaza unfold on my screen, the stark images of devastation and resilience thousands of miles away resonated deeply with me. While I have never set foot on Gaza, the profound impact of its plight on my consciousness has driven me to engage from afar, working tirelessly with friends on the ground to assist in evacuations and provide support amidst the chaos. From my vantage point, the situation is distressingly clear: Gaza's environment, already burdened by prolonged conflict, is now facing unprecedented strain from climate impacts directly linked to the ongoing military actions.
The military operations in Gaza have produced emissions greater than the annual carbon footprint of more than 20 of the world's most climate-vulnerable nations. This staggering revelation comes from a study detailing emissions from aircraft missions, tanks, other vehicles, and the environmental toll of manufacturing and detonating military arsenal. Such insights provide only a glimpse into the vast military "boot print" of war, which extends far beyond the immediate battlefield.
This environmental degradation is more than an ecological issue; it is a profound human rights concern. The aftermath of conflict leaves a scarred landscape where agriculture struggles to rebound, water sources are contaminated, and civilian populations suffer from increased health problems amidst the ruins. In Gaza, this reality is stark, with essential infrastructure devastated and prospects for recovery grim due to ongoing instability. The assault has disrupted not just the physical landscape but also the capacity of the people in Gaza to respond to and recover from environmental changes, trapping them in a vicious cycle of vulnerability and crisis.
The destruction caused by these military operations often necessitates massive reconstruction efforts, which themselves are significant sources of greenhouse gas emissions. Rebuilding destroyed buildings, roads, and infrastructure requires large quantities of concrete, steel, and other materials whose production is carbon-intensive.
Incorporating these environmental impacts into discussions about military operations is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the true costs of conflict. It highlights the need for global policies that consider the environmental impacts of security and defence strategies, advocating for reduced reliance on military solutions to international disputes and increased investment in sustainable and peaceful alternatives.
The stories of resilience emerging from Gaza have been both heartbreaking and inspiring. Families reuse greywater to sustain basic life; communities organise to clear rubble and replant, attempting to restore a semblance of normalcy amid the ruins. These acts of resilience are powerful reminders of the human spirit's capacity to endure and adapt, but they are also a call to action for those of us in the global community.
As an climate advocate, my role extends beyond research and conservation; it involves leveraging my platform to spotlight these critical issues. Advocating for a ceasefire is not just a call for peace but a fundamental prerequisite for any meaningful recovery and climate action. A ceasefire would allow for the necessary assessment and rehabilitation of the environment and provide a framework within which sustainable and resilient rebuilding could commence. It’s crucial to recognise that without stability, strategies cannot be effectively implemented, nor can they be successful in mitigating further climate-related risks.
Addressing these issues requires an international focus on not only managing but preventing conflict-induced disasters. This involves holding conversations at global forums about the environmental impact of warfare and pushing for policies that integrate climate considerations into peacemaking and peacekeeping efforts.
The ongoing onslaught in Gaza serve as a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of our environment and geopolitical dynamics. I urge global leaders and communities to consider the broader implications of conflict on our planet. We must work towards solutions that encompass both peace in all its forms, recognizing that the health of our environment is inextricably linked to the stability of our societies.
While my physical presence in Gaza is not possible, my commitment to its cause remains steadfast. The lessons from Gaza illuminate the urgent need for integrated approaches that consider both human and environmental well-being, compelling us to advocate for systemic change that addresses both peace and the planet.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
