Green Wars Can Be More Destructive Than Traditional Warfare

Cities are critical battlegrounds as they generate up to 70 per cent of global emissions. By 2050, an additional two billion people will call them home. Cities have spawned the ideas and innovations that have led human development and they are more important than ever in a world caught in a crisis. These were the observations of António Guterres, UN Secretary General. An estimated 670 million still live in extreme poverty and over one billion continue to endure slum conditions, due to lack of basic facilities, he pointed out. In the modern era, the battleground for global supremacy is shifting from traditional warfare to a more silent but potent conflict-the Green Wars. Unlike conventional wars fought with weapons, these battles are waged by way of policies, technologies and ideologies aimed at preserving the environment and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

But what are Green Wars and why are they crucial in today’s world? These ‘wars’ encompass a spectrum of conflicts and initiatives that are centred around environmental conservation and sustainability. They involve various stakeholders, including governments, corporations, environmental organisations and individuals, vis-à-vis ecological issues. At the heart of these conflicts lies competing interests: economic growth versus environmental protection, short-term gains versus long-term sustainability.

An important front in the Green Wars is the fight against deforestation and habitat destruction. Conservationists advocate preservation of biodiversity while highlighting the importance of forests in carbon sequestration, climate regulation, and species survival. However, industries such as agriculture, logging and urban development often encroach upon these habitats, leading to conflicts over land use and resource exploitation. Efforts to balance economic development with environmental protection become contentious battlegrounds, with implications for biodiversity, indigenous rights, and global climate goals. Despite the challenges, Green Wars can actually foster collaborations and innovation.

The quest for sustainable solutions requires cooperation among diverse stakeholders. Technological advancements, such as renewable energy technologies, green infrastructure and circular economy practices, offer promising pathways towards a more sustainable future. Environmental development refers to the process of promoting sustainable and responsible use of natural resources while minimising negative impacts on the environment and ecosystems for a healthier and resilient world.

Climate change, deforestation, pollution and resource depletion continue to pose significant threats to the planet. This urges us to implement a robust and dual approach — blending individual and collective efforts. Eco-friendly agriculture goes beyond crop yields; it involves a holistic approach that considers the long-term impact on the environment. By minimising the use of harmful chemicals, embracing organic farming techniques, and nurturing soil health, we not only safeguard our ecosystems but also ensure a sustainable source of food for future generations. Individual efforts such as planting trees gain strength when communities come together for a common cause. Recognising this, our green goals for 2024 underscore the importance of community participation in local initiatives.

It’s not just about individual actions but about fostering a collective spirit towards environmental stewardship. From neighbourhood clean-up drives to supporting tree plantation initiatives, communities can serve as catalysts for lasting change. Deforestation is a critical environmental issue contributing to climate change and loss of biodiversity. Therefore, the green goals for 2024 emphasise large-scale reforestation projects. Over $57 billion has been pledged across the climate agenda to restore degraded ecosystems and sequester carbon.