Annually observed on November 6th, the United Nations (UN) marks the International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict. The objective of this day is to increase awareness regarding the environmental repercussions of war and conflict.

It underscores the critical need for safeguarding the environment during military operations, emphasizing the catastrophic impact on ecosystems, wildlife, water, and the atmosphere.

Background and History

• Inception: The International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2001. It aims to highlight the severe environmental impacts of warfare and promote efforts to protect the environment during times of conflict.

• Environmental Consequences: Armed conflicts often result in significant environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil erosion, water contamination, habitat destruction, and the loss of biodiversity. These consequences can have long-lasting effects on ecosystems, natural resources, and human health.

Objectives of the International Day

• Raise Awareness: Increase awareness about the environmental dimensions of armed conflicts and the importance of protecting natural resources and ecosystems from wartime exploitation.

• Promote Accountability: Advocate for accountability and responsibility among parties involved in armed conflicts to prevent environmental damage and ensure compliance with international humanitarian law.

• Support Rehabilitation and Recovery: Highlight the need for post-conflict environmental rehabilitation and recovery efforts to restore ecosystems, mitigate environmental damage, and support sustainable development in affected areas.

Activities and Ways to Participate

• Educational Campaigns: Organize seminars, workshops, and educational sessions to educate policymakers, military personnel, civil society organizations, and the public about the environmental consequences of armed conflict.

• Policy Advocacy: Advocate for stronger legal frameworks, international agreements, and protocols to protect the environment during armed conflicts and promote sustainable peacebuilding efforts.

• Community Engagement: Engage communities affected by armed conflict in environmental conservation and restoration initiatives, empowering local stakeholders to protect and sustainably manage natural resources.

• Research and Documentation: Conduct research, gather data, and document case studies on the environmental impacts of armed conflict to inform policy decisions, humanitarian interventions, and peacebuilding strategies.

Global Impact and Recognition

• International Cooperation: Encourage international cooperation, collaboration, and diplomatic efforts to address the environmental dimensions of armed conflicts and promote sustainable peacebuilding.

• Humanitarian Principles: Uphold humanitarian principles and ethics by protecting civilians, humanitarian workers, and vulnerable populations from the environmental hazards and consequences of armed conflict.

• Environmental Security: Recognize the interconnectedness of environmental security, human security, and sustainable development in conflict-affected regions, emphasizing the need for integrated approaches to peace and environmental protection.

How to Participate

• Raise Awareness: Share information about the International Day on social media, blogs, and other platforms using hashtags like #PreventEnvironmentalExploitation and #ProtectEnvironmentInConflict.

• Support Initiatives: Participate in or support organizations, initiatives, and campaigns that promote environmental protection, sustainable development, and peacebuilding efforts in conflict-affected areas.

• Advocate for Policy: Advocate for policies and practices that prioritize environmental protection, natural resource management, and sustainable development in conflict prevention, resolution, and post-conflict reconstruction efforts.

The International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict underscores the importance of protecting the environment as a critical component of humanitarian action, peacebuilding, and sustainable development. By raising awareness, advocating for policy change, and supporting initiatives, individuals and organizations contribute to safeguarding natural resources, promoting environmental resilience, and advancing global efforts towards peace and stability in conflict-affected regions.