A recent study titled War on the Climate: A Multitemporal Study of Greenhouse Gas Emissions of the Israel-Gaza Conflict, reveals that Israel's military campaign in Gaza has generated approximately 1.89 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent emissions, exceeding the annual greenhouse gas emissions of over 100 countries.
The majority of these emissions, about 99%, are attributed to Israeli military activities, including aerial bombardments and ground operations.
The environmental impact extends beyond immediate military actions. The destruction of Gaza's infrastructure, including its solar energy facilities, has led to increased reliance on diesel generators, further elevating carbon emissions.
Additionally, the anticipated reconstruction of Gaza is projected to emit an additional 31 million tonnes of CO₂, nearly matching Afghanistan’s annual emissions.
The conflict has also resulted in extensive environmental degradation. Approximately 80% of Gaza's tree cover has been lost, and nearly half of its farmland destroyed.
The collapse of sewage treatment facilities has led to the daily discharge of 130,000 cubic meters of untreated sewage into the Mediterranean Sea, contaminating water sources and posing significant health risks.
Experts emphasise the need for greater transparency and accountability regarding military emissions, which are currently exempt from mandatory reporting under international climate agreements.
They argue that the environmental consequences of warfare should be integrated into global climate strategies to address the dual crises of conflict and climate change.
