At the upcoming 34th International Conference of the Red Cross and Red Crescent in October 2024, Nigeria and European Union member nations are set to discuss joining the Convention on the Prohibition of Military Use of Environmental Modification Techniques, known as ENMOD. This discussion touches on a vital issue that deserves our attention.
ENMOD, established in 1977, aims to prevent the military misuse of environmental manipulation techniques that cause significant harm. It explicitly forbids actions that could lead to widespread, lasting, or severe effects on the environment, emphasizing the need for responsible use of science and technology in warfare.
What does ENMOD cover? It protects against acts that deliberately alter natural processes, potentially causing disasters like earthquakes, tsunamis, or significant climate changes. Examples range from altering precipitation patterns to affecting ocean currents. In essence, it seeks to limit warfare’s harmful impacts on the planet.
While often viewed as outdated, ENMOD remains relevant today. Interestingly, it includes major powers like China, the US, and Russia, suggesting that its principles could be crucial in contemporary conflicts, such as the ongoing situation in Ukraine. Experts like Jarose describe ENMOD as a “sleeping giant” that still holds potential for limiting environmental harm in warfare.
Despite its significance, ENMOD hasn’t seen much action since the 1980s. Review conferences have been rare, and many countries still haven’t ratified the treaty. As of now, only 78 states are parties to it. Some critics even deem it a relic from the Cold War, arguing that it doesn’t address the realities of modern warfare. However, this perspective misses its still-considerable power to protect the environment.
The importance of ENMOD is increasingly clear, especially in light of the urgent climate crisis. Advancements in technology make it easier to modify the environment, and military strategies are evolving as well. The ramifications of climate change on warfare mean that countries may resort to environmental tactics that could violate ENMOD. For example, military planning is increasingly considering climate factors, influencing strategies worldwide. NATO has even established a Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence to prepare for the risks posed by climate change in military contexts.
Moreover, environmental degradation is accelerating due to climate change, making nature more vulnerable to military operations. Recent studies reveal that biodiversity is declining at unprecedented rates, heightening the need for protective measures like those offered by ENMOD. Historical events, such as the environmental destruction during the Iran-Iraq War, highlight the catastrophic effects of military actions on fragile ecosystems.
In our current age, monitoring environmental damage has become easier. New technologies allow greater transparency about environmental impacts inflicted by conflicts. Organizations like UNEP and others are actively documenting such damage, improving our capacity to assess violations of ENMOD.
Given the growing global concerns about the environment, states should reconsider their participation in ENMOD. Joining the treaty not only protects nations from harmful modifications but also promotes international cooperation on environmental issues. Countries in Africa and the Middle East, for example, face severe climate impacts and should consider ENMOD as a tool to safeguard their environments.
To conclude, ENMOD offers a vital framework for addressing modern conflicts and their environmental impacts. As nations discuss their commitment to this treaty, we can only hope for broader acceptance and rigorous implementation to protect our planet for future generations.
