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

International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict aims to raise awareness about the importance of protecting the natural environment during armed conflict. This day highlights the fact that maintaining the Earth's invaluable resources and ecosystems during war is essential for the survival, rehabilitation, and recovery of affected communities. Furthermore, it underscores the significance of international law in safeguarding natural resources during times of armed conflict and emphasizes the responsibilities of all parties involved in wars and armed struggles.

Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2001, this observance is particularly relevant to the people of the United Kingdom, as the country has a history of participating in diverse armed conflicts. The UK has also been proactive in supporting environmental protection measures and contributing to humanitarian efforts in war-affected areas across the globe. As a signatory to relevant international treaties and conventions, the UK upholds and promotes the importance of safeguarding the environment in war and armed conflict situations.

In the United Kingdom, International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict is marked by activities and programmes aimed at raising awareness about environmental protection in armed conflict situations. Various institutions, organizations, and individuals engage in discussions, seminars, and workshops to shed light on the pressing issues related to the link between armed conflicts and environmental degradation. The United Kingdom marks this important occasion each year on November 6th, joining nations worldwide in spreading awareness about preventing the exploitation of the environment during war and armed conflict.

Facts about this day

• According to the U.N Environment Programme, over the last 60 years, 40% of all domestic conflicts have been linked to an exploitation of natural resources.
• According to the Conflict and Environment Observatory, the largest militaries produce more carbon dioxide emissions than most of the world's countries combined.
• Military training areas in the United Kingdom are managed to protect biodiversity and prevent damage to the environment. The Ministry of Defence manages more than 190 Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) across the UK, which provide a habitat for a variety of flora and fauna.
• During the 1991 Gulf War, the UK was a member of the coalition that intervened against the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait. The conflict resulted in major environmental damage from burning oil wells set on fire by the retreating Iraqi forces. It's estimated that over 700 oil well fires were set ablaze, and the coalition countries, including the UK, took steps to extinguish those fires and mitigate the environmental impact.

In the News and Trending in the UK for International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict

Top things to do in the UK for this observance

• Research and discuss environmental impacts on your community. Find out how you can make a positive impact or change.
• Contact local representatives, politicians, or Members of Parliament (MPs) to express your concerns about the environment during conflict. Contribute to campaigns advocating for policies that prevent the exploitation of the environment in times of war.
• Connect with international organizations working on this issue, such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) or the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). Collaborate or support their initiatives in the United Kingdom to raise awareness and contribute to global efforts.