International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict

War is a dirty business

War, while it leaves its mark on history and humanity, often leaves a devastating scar on the environment as well.
The aftermath of war is not just shattered buildings and lives, but also a trail of environmental destruction. Historical conflicts have scarred the environment, from deforestation to contamination of water sources, all in the name of military strategy. From the ravaged landscapes of World War I to the oil-soaked deserts of the Gulf War. The environment becomes a silent casualty, and its scars often outlive the conflict itself.
The International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict is our global call to acknowledge that the casualties of war aren’t just human; they’re also the landscapes, ecosystems, and natural resources that sustain life.

From Battlefields to Barren Lands

Oil spills, unexploded munitions, and the deliberate poisoning of water sources are just a few weapons in this toxic arsenal.
One of the most infamous examples of the environmental consequences of war is the use of Agent Orange during the Vietnam War.
Agent Orange was a herbicide used to defoliate woodlands and deny cover to Viet Cong fighters.
Unfortunately, the chemical had disastrous impacts to the environment, polluting the soil as well as water supplies and causing birth defects and other medical issues in humans.
The Gulf War, which resulted in severe oil pollution in the Persian Gulf, is another example.
Damaged oil wells and refineries caused oil spills that contaminated coastal areas and saltwater, killing marine life and destabilizing ecosystems.

There has been an increasing awareness of the environmental consequences of war in recent years.
According to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the cost of environmental damage resulting from war in recent decades has been estimated to be in the trillions of dollars.

The Origin of International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict

International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict was established by the United Nations General Assembly on November 5, 2001, during Kofi Atta Annan’s tenure as secretary-general.
This day is now celebrated around the world as a wake-up call for a greener, more peaceful future.

How You Can Make a Difference

So how can you celebrate International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict?
Here’s how you can help:

• Learn more about the environmental consequences of wars and armed conflicts to raise awareness.
• Support organizations working to protect the environment in conflict zones, such as landmine clearance initiatives or conservation projects.
• Join movements advocating for peaceful solutions to conflicts to prevent further environmental destruction.
• Seek to promote long-term peace efforts and laws that encourage environmental protection.
• Organize or participate in peaceful protests or events that raise awareness about the impact of war on the environment.
• Hold a “tree planting ceremony” in honor of peace and a greener world.
• Lead by example – reduce, reuse, and recycle, even in times of peace, to promote a sustainable world for generations to come.
• Organize a cleanup event in your community to restore nature’s balance.
• Host a film screening or discussion on the environmental impacts of conflict.
• Plan a “peace potluck” and share fantastic food and stories with people from all over the world.
• Share your eco-friendly tips and stories on social media, using hashtags like #EnvironmentInWar and #PeaceIsGreen.

Your efforts, no matter how small, can contribute to a more sustainable and peaceful future for our planet. 

Let’s clean it up!

Celebrate International Day by planting trees, not landmines, and let peace blossom.
The environment may not have a voice, but we can be its champions. We’re not fighting for land – we’re fighting for the land itself.
So, if anyone asks why you’re celebrating by planting trees with a marching band, just tell them Wild Calendar gave you permission to do so.
And invite them to join the parade for a greener, more peaceful world.