Today, November 6, the United Nations recognizes the International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict, which was established through a 2001 resolution.

“Considering the damage to the environment in times of armed conflict impairs ecosystems and natural resources long beyond the period of conflict,” the resolution explained. “Member-states shall refrain from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity of any state in their international relations.”

According to the United Nations Environment Programme, resources such as timber, diamonds, gold, and oil have been impacted and exploited due to armed conflict.

Protecting the environment is also part of the UN’s conflict prevention, peacekeeping, and peacebuilding strategies./WDJ