Environmental Considerations for Operational War Planners
Abstract
Heightened public awareness and growing concern worldwide about the environmental impact of war have mandated that commanders take steps to reduce or eliminate ecological damage caused by their combat operations. The current environmental atmosphere is examined to illustrate the increasing public support and political priority placed on environmental issues. Environmental risks emanating from nuclear, chemical, and hydrological facilities are discussed to provide a sample of the dangerous forces susceptible to release by direct or indirect combat action. International laws and agreements are discussed for their significance in limiting damage to the environment in time of war. Recognizing the political implications of targeting certain objectives and utilizing environment oriented intelligence, ROE, and weaponeering will limit damage and enable the commander to promulgate an environmentally sound approach to his methods of war. In future conflicts the commander and his staff must be prepared to address environmental issues in their warfighting plans. Only then can the precarious balance between environmental protection and military success be met.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 08, 1994
- Accession Number
- ADA279710
Entities
People
- Frank Rush
Organizations
- Naval War College