By Chandni Jafri, SLSV India
We all saw that infamous exchange, where Trump and Vance decided to publicly give a dressing down to not just Zelensky but also former US Presidents. While we may disagree with the methods of Trump and Vance, truth be told, not just the US, no country can really afford this war.
The conflict has unleashed devastating environmental damage, from chemical contamination of waterways to air pollution and deforestation, with estimated costs reaching $56.4 billion.
Over 2 million hectares of forest have been destroyed, wrecking ecosystems and putting rare endemic species at risk.The conflict has led to air pollution, water contamination, and soil degradation, posing significant risks to human health and the environment.
It has disrupted Ukraine’s natural resources management, including forestry, fishing, and mining, leading to a loss of biodiversity and ecosystem disruption.
The Russia-Ukraine war is a stark reminder that, despite borders, the environment remains a shared and vulnerable entity. Though nations may be divided by borders, they are inextricably linked by the fragile fabric of the environment, and the consequences of its degradation will be a shared destiny that no country can escape.
Unfortunately, the recent meeting between Trump, Vance, and Zelensky was a missed opportunity to address pressing global issues like environmental crimes and planet sustainability.
Imagine if they had focused on finding solutions to the devastating environmental losses caused by the ongoing conflict. They could have discussed ways to reverse the damage, promote sustainable practices, and support Ukraine’s efforts to protect its natural resources.
A collective effort to address environmental crimes and promote sustainability would have been a powerful show of international cooperation and leadership.
While an immediate ceasefire is crucial, it’s equally essential that the global community unites to prioritize environmental recovery efforts.Provide financial and technical assistance to help Ukraine restore its damaged environment and promote sustainable development. And most importantly, ensure that perpetrators responsible for environmental damage are held accountable and that international law is strengthened to prevent such devastation in the future.
The air we breathe, the water we drink, and the earth we inhabit are shared resources that demand a unified approach to conservation and sustainability.
It’s time for nations to put aside their differences and work together to address the environmental challenges that threaten our very existence. By recognizing our shared destiny and collective responsibility, we can forge a more sustainable future for all.
By: Chandni Jafri, SLSV India