Stockholm, Aug 18 (IANS) – A recent report highlights a troubling connection between military expansion in Tibet and environmental preservation. This growth introduces serious challenges for both regional security and climate stability.
Military activities in Tibet are reshaping the local environment. According to the Institute for Security and Development Policy (ISDP), these shifts can harm ecosystems and affect water security for people living downstream.
The military presence in Tibet has evolved significantly since the 1950s. Now, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has between 70,000 and 120,000 troops stationed there, with a substantial number in the Tibet Military District. These troops are strategically placed near borders and key routes.
The structure of military command in Tibet has also changed. This reorganization is part of broader military reforms in China. Satellite imagery shows extensive military facilities throughout the region, all of which may impact the environment.
One major concern is the Tibetan Plateau, which holds the world’s largest high-altitude permafrost area. This region, measuring about 1.06 million sq. km, acts as a crucial carbon sink. However, military construction is causing the permafrost to degrade. Field studies reveal that ground temperatures have risen by 0.1 to 0.5 degrees Celsius annually over the past 30 years, linked to military activities. This degradation is not just an environmental issue; it also leads to increased greenhouse gas emissions.
To tackle these pressing challenges, the report suggests a reevaluation of military infrastructure planning in Tibet. It calls for a strong focus on ecological preservation, especially in sensitive areas like glacier margins. A significant amount of land—around 35,000 sq. km—should be off-limits to military use to protect fragile environments.
The report advocates for stricter environmental standards in military construction. This includes maintaining distances from sensitive water sources and restoring ecological conditions after military exercises. Routine independent environmental assessments should also be a priority.
Experts emphasize the importance of balancing military needs with ecological health. The stability of Tibet’s environment directly influences water security across Asia. Recent efforts toward environmental initiatives have begun to show promise, but the urgency of the situation requires transparency and collaboration between governments and NGOs.
Understanding the broader implications of military action in such sensitive regions is critical. Sustainable solutions and shared practices could pave the way for safer military operations that respect the environment.
For more insights on this topic, check out resources from organizations like the International Institute for Strategic Studies and the Centre for Strategic and International Studies.
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ISDP, Tibet military region, China, military infrastructure, military development in Tibet, China military reforms
