Humanitarian experts warn that climate change contributes to worsening humanitarian crises in Gaza, where rising temperatures and damaged infrastructure are pushing fragile systems toward collapse. According to a new study, the ongoing war in Gaza has resulted in the emission of approximately 33 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, which is comparable to Jordan's annual emissions.
Research conducted by Queen Mary University of London indicates that emissions from military operations alone, such as artillery and rockets, have surpassed 1.3 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. Additionally, there are emissions associated with the construction of defensive infrastructure and the impact of rebuilding damaged roads and buildings.
Event Details
Dr. Frederick Otto-Larbi from Lancaster University emphasizes that understanding the environmental impacts of conflict is crucial for identifying the causes of climate change. He notes that transparency regarding military emissions will help ensure that these effects are not overlooked.
In recent years, there have been increasing calls to include military emissions in the carbon footprint of nations, with Ukraine demanding last year that Russia pay 37 billion euros in compensation for environmental damage caused by its invasion.
Background & Context
The humanitarian crises in Gaza are escalating due to climate change, as last summer saw a deadly heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, increasing the risk of drought and damage to essential food supplies. Residents of Gaza have been forced to endure these harsh conditions, with thousands losing protection from extreme heat due to forced displacement and electricity shortages.
Forecasts indicate that the frequency and intensity of heatwaves will increase, with a 91% chance that one of the next five years will exceed the 1.5 degrees Celsius threshold, raising the risks of flooding and disease.
Impact & Consequences
Relief agencies confirm that rising temperatures and unsafe water contribute to the spread of diseases such as diarrhea, hepatitis A, and skin infections. The proliferation of rats and insects has also become part of the environmental crisis in Gaza, complicating the health situation further.
Asif Hussain, CEO of the SKT Welfare charity, states that waste accumulation, the collapse of sewage systems, and rising temperatures lead to rapid disease outbreaks. He points out that this issue is not limited to Palestine but also affects parts of Yemen, Pakistan, and other countries facing fragile conditions.
Regional Significance
The deteriorating situation in Gaza requires an urgent response from authorities and humanitarian actors, as climate adaptation must be integrated into relief efforts. Policymakers need to invest in resilient water and sanitation systems and enhance health monitoring.
Ultimately, the ability to adapt to climate change should be viewed as a fundamental part of humanitarian response, as recurring crises place communities in difficult positions with fewer resources to recover between crises.