Conflicts around the globe are increasingly intertwined with climate change, escalating humanitarian crises in regions like Gaza. As extreme weather events become more frequent, fragile systems are being pushed to their limits, raising concerns of potential collapse.
A recent study from Queen Mary University of London sheds light on the environmental ramifications of ongoing military conflicts. The research estimates that the Israel-Gaza war has so far produced approximately 33 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e). This figure mirrors the annual emissions of Jordan or equates to emissions from 7.6 million petrol vehicles.
Published in the journal One Earth, the study highlights that military operations contribute significantly to these emissions, with artillery and equipment accounting for over 1.3 million tonnes of CO₂e. Additionally, the construction and reconstruction of infrastructure heavily contribute to the carbon footprint.
The Environmental Toll of Military Conflicts
Dr. Frederick Otu-Larbi from Lancaster University and the University of Energy and Natural Resources in Ghana emphasizes, “Understanding the environmental impacts of conflict is essential if we are to fully account for the drivers of climate change.” He advocates for increased transparency in reporting military emissions to ensure they are not disregarded.
There is growing advocacy to integrate military emissions into national carbon footprints, recognizing the climate implications of conflicts. A notable precedent is Ukraine’s demand for €37 billion from Russia as climate reparations for environmental damage caused by military aggression.
Climate Change Exacerbates Conditions in Gaza
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is exacerbated by climate-induced extreme weather. Experts urge that climate adaptation must be woven into aid strategies. Last summer, Gaza experienced a severe heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 40°C, leading to significant challenges in food preservation and increased dehydration risks.
The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) warns of a high probability that upcoming years will breach the 1.5°C temperature threshold, with the potential to set new records for Earth’s hottest years. This rise in temperature also means that the atmosphere can hold more moisture, resulting in more severe rainfall.
In March, intense rainstorms turned streets into waterlogged areas, impacting thousands of displaced Gazans. According to UNICEF, the harsh conditions led to the deaths of at least 11 children from hypothermia early this year.
Public Health Risks on the Rise
Elevated temperatures coupled with water scarcity and poor sanitation are intensifying health risks. Asif Hussain from UK aid charity SKT Welfare notes, “Humanitarian agencies have repeatedly warned that heat and unsafe water are contributing to the spread of diarrhoeal disease, hepatitis A, skin infections and other communicable illnesses.”
The situation is aggravated by reports of rodent and insect infestations. Hussain points out that regions like Yemen and Pakistan are also experiencing climate-induced structural changes, affecting water access and food security.
Interconnected Crises Demand Integrated Solutions
SKT Welfare is advocating for investments in resilient infrastructure, disease monitoring, and sustainable energy solutions, such as solar power. Hussain warns, “Once infrastructure collapses under combined conflict and climate pressures, the public health consequences escalate very quickly.”
He emphasizes the need for a shift in how climate resilience is viewed, noting, “In many contexts, it’s becoming essential to sustaining the humanitarian response itself.” The overlap of crises, like food insecurity and environmental degradation, poses a growing challenge, leaving communities with fewer resources and time to recover between emergencies.
Original Story at www.euronews.com