Impact of War on the Climate
Armed conflicts not only leave visible scars but also inflict deep ecological damage that threatens our future. Beyond human and material destruction, war causes massive pollution of the air, soil, and water, actively contributing to the climate crisis and the degradation of essential resources. These long-lasting impacts weigh heavily on our planet, disrupting already vulnerable ecosystems
War: A Threat to Air and Climate
The explosions of weapons release toxic pollutants into the atmosphere — fine particles, heavy metals, volatile organic compounds — which permanently degrade air quality. Attacks on oil and industrial infrastructure trigger devastating fires, emitting large amounts of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. The production and transportation of weapons, intensive military operations, and the energy demands of post-conflict reconstruction leave a massive carbon footprint. The production of building materials, such as concrete, also releases a significant amount of carbon. A recent study reveals that global military activities generate about 5.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, even surpassing the aviation industry.
Water and Ecosystems: Precious Resources Contaminated by War
Conflicts also severely impact water resources, already scarce in many regions. The destruction of water infrastructure — treatment plants, pipelines, reservoirs — leads to contamination of water sources with wastewater, chemicals, and pathogens. Heavy metals and chemicals from military equipment seep into rivers and aquifers, polluting drinking water supplies and agricultural soils. In arid regions like the Middle East, where droughts and high temperatures are persistent, this pollution exacerbates a devastating water shortage, threatening ecosystems and local populations.
