Environmental Impact of UN Peace Operations –…

Peacekeeping represents a significant share of the UN's overall emissions, accounting for 87% of the UN Secretariat's greenhouse gas emissions and 48% of the entire UN system's emissions. Concerns about the environmental impact of UN peace operations have been steadily growing over the years. Many peace operations are deployed in remote and conflict-affected areas where infrastructure is often inadequate or damaged through conflicts. Consequently, these missions must be predominantly self-sufficient, particularly in terms of energy, water, and waste management, which contributes to their considerable environmental footprint and increased operational vulnerabilities. If not effectively managed, this footprint can pose risks to personnel, host communities, ecosystems, as well as the reputation of the UN.

By adopting greener practices, guided by "The Way Forward: Environment Strategy for Peace Operations 2023-2030", missions can significantly reduce the strain on host countries and foster stronger relationships with local communities. This is especially critical in conflict-affected regions, where environmental degradation caused by war has already taken a toll. Transition to renewable energy systems also improves operational resilience, reducing the missions' dependency on fuel supplies. If implemented as part of wider, comprehensive UN approach, it can contribute to more effective peace operations and greater safety and security of the Blue Helmets.

This event will highlight progress in environmental management within military and peacekeeping contexts, including advancements in impact and emissions reporting. It will also examine the challenges of decarbonizing the sector and outline a pathway for addressing environmental impacts and emissions. It offers a platform for shaping new pledges and commitments in preparation for the 2025 UN Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin.

Discussions on this topic, held through high-level engagements at the 2023 UN Peacekeeping Ministerial in Accra, the 2024 UN Security Council Open Debate on "Strengthening Peacekeeping: Reflections for the Future," and the COP29 side event on "Transparent Military Emissions Reporting and the Path to Military Decarbonisation," provided valuable opportunities for reflection. The event offers a platform for shaping new pledges and commitments in preparation for the 2025 UN Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin.