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Why War Is One Of The World’s Biggest Climate Threats
War is often seen as a destructive force, devastating people and the environment. However, its environmental impact goes far beyond the immediate destruction caused by combat. The unintended consequences of war have been grossly underestimated and ignored for far too long.
One of the most significant yet underreported impacts of war on the climate is the massive release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Military emissions alone account for a staggering 5.5% of global CO2 emissions, with defense spending rapidly increasing in response to new geopolitical tensions worldwide. This trajectory is heading in the wrong direction.
Furthermore, wars have devastating indirect effects on the environment. Wildfires sparked by combat can release immense amounts of carbon dioxide and soot into the atmosphere, further accelerating climate change. The destruction caused by war also leads to a loss of biodiversity as ecosystems are disrupted or destroyed. Additionally, competition for resources such as water, food, and land can lead to violent clashes, exacerbating conflicts and instability.
It is crucial to recognize that the connection between war and climate change is not a one-way street. Climate change itself is now recognized as a driver of conflict. Regions vulnerable to droughts, floods, and extreme weather events are also more susceptible to violence and instability. This vicious cycle perpetuates itself, with war fueling climate change and climate change driving further conflicts.
The consequences of inaction are severe and far-reaching. The greenhouse gases released by wars today will remain in the atmosphere for over a century, locking in damage for generations. If we fail to address these issues, we risk losing the battle against runaway climate change and ecological collapse.
It is imperative that we stop viewing war as a separate issue from environmental degradation. Every conflict, whether it be between nations or within communities, also represents a war on nature, biodiversity, and the climate itself. We must acknowledge this reality and work towards reducing military emissions while addressing the root causes of conflict.
In conclusion, war is not only devastating for human populations but also has catastrophic consequences for the planet. It is essential to prioritize environmental sustainability and address the underlying drivers of conflict to ensure a livable future for all.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/nilsrokke/2025/03/26/why-war-is-one-of-the-worlds-biggest-climate-threats/
