Environmental devastation from war

March 6, 2022

Written by: Caroline Kim

Some of the most environmental destruction are a result of war as it is “linked to other serious ecological consequences from refugee camps, administrative neglect, the pillaging of natural resources and the incineration of various highly toxic wastes in exposed military “burn pits” (Surma). Most of you have probably heard by now of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. It’s extremely saddening to see the many innocent lives being destroyed, and though environmental issues emerge from this type of conflict, it can’t compare to the way the conflict impacts the people. However, the environmental impact can contribute directly to the well-being of people. “The environmental impacts include the release of toxic materials into air, water and soil from crumpled buildings, impaired sanitation systems, exploded pipelines and damaged industrial facilities like fuel and chemical storage sites” (Surma). Just the way humans can impact the environment, the environment can impact humans and the toxic chemicals, and radiation can cause disease and induce long term illnesses in people. “The effects of smoke from wildfires can range from eye and respiratory tract irritation to more serious disorders, including reduced lung function, bronchitis, exacerbation of asthma and heart failure, and premature death” (Wildland Fire Research: Health Effects Research). Another article by the EPA states, “Exposure to very high levels of radiation, such as being close to an atomic blast, can cause acute health effects such as skin burns and acute radiation syndrome (“radiation sickness"). It can also result in long-term health effects such as cancer and cardiovascular disease” (Radiation Health Effects). Though not much can be predicted of what is to come, it is clear that humans detrimental acts to the environment find a way of projecting back to humans. Both the well-being of many people and the environment are at risk from this conflict, so I encourage you to do what you can to help alleviate the conflict whether that is through raising awareness, donations, or other methods.

Sources:

Surma, Katie. “Activists Deplore the Human Toll and Environmental Devastation from Russia's

Unprovoked War of Aggression in Ukraine.” Inside Climate News, 4 Mar. 2022, https://insideclimatenews.org/news/04032022/activists-deplore-the-human-toll-and-environmental-devastation-from-russias-unprovoked-war-of-aggression-in-ukraine/#:~:text=The%20environmental%20impacts%20include%20the,fuel%20and%20chemical%20storage%20sites.

“Wildland Fire Research: Health Effects Research.” EPA, Environmental Protection Agency, 4 June 2019, https://19january2021snapshot.epa.gov/air-research/wildland-fire-research-health-effects-research_.html.

“Radiation Health Effects.” EPA, Environmental Protection Agency, 14 Apr. 2021, https://www2.epa.gov/radiation/radiation-health-effects.