Preserving the Planet in Times of Conflict

Nov 7, 2023 | Syed Aaliya
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The International Day for Preventing Environment in Wars and Armed Conflicts, marked on November 6th annually, serves as a poignant reminder of the grievous toll that warfare exacts on our planet's delicate ecosystems.The date, November 6th, was chosen in memory of the tragic loss of the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) Executive Director, Dr. Mostafa Tolba, who passed away on this day. 

The environmental impact of war transcends borders, and cooperation is essential to mitigate damage and promote post-conflict recovery. India, a stalwart in the pursuit of global peace, has played a pivotal role in promoting harmony and environmental conservation amid conflicts. Several international agreements and protocols address the protection of the environment during armed conflicts. Notable examples include the Geneva Conventions and the Additional Protocols, which prohibit the use of environmental destruction as a method of warfare.