CONFLICT ZONES AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT

(EIA): LESSONS LEARNED FROM RUSSIA UKRAINE WAR

IDP PROJECT REPORT SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL REQUIREMENT FOR THE DEGREE

OF

BBA.LLB, BA.LLB, BS.BIOT, BA.HIS, BA.ENG, BA.PAR && BA. IR

UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF

MS. SOFIA KHATUN

LAW AND JUSTICE

SCHOOL OF LAW AND JUSTICE

ADAMAS UNIVERSITY

3 RD SEMESTER / 2022- 27

2 ND YEAR
DECLARATION BY THE STUDENTS

This is to certify that this project being submitted by us on the topic entitled “Conflict Zones and
Environmental Impact Assessment: Lessons Learned from Russia Ukraine War” has been
completed under the guidance of Ms. Sofia Khatun. It is declared that the present study has not
previously formed the basis for the award of any Degree, Diploma, Associateship or Fellowship
to this or any other University.

Student’s Name Student's Signature

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CERTIFICATE OF THE GUIDE

This is to certify that the project entitled “Conflict Zones and Environmental Impact Assessment:
Lessons Learned from Russia Ukraine War” is the work undertaken by Ms. Sofia Khatun under
my supervision and guidance as part of his/her name of the degree in this University. To the best
of my knowledge, this is the original work conducted by him/her and the project may be sent for
evaluation.

Ms. Sofia Khatun

(Supervisor’s Name)

Supervisor’s Signature

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PLAGIARISM CHECK CERTIFICATE

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TABLE OF CONTENT

CONTENT PAGE NUMBER

Introduction 6

Related Literature 12

Methodology 15

Environmental Impact Assessment: Conceptual Framework 16

Legal and Policy Context 22

EIA Challenges in Conflict Zones: Lessons from the Russia-Ukraine Conflict 29

Innovative Approaches to EIA in Conflict Zones 38

Best Practices and Case Studies 43

Policy Recommendations for Effective EIA in Conflict Zones 54

The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and International 57
Agencies
Challenges and Opportunities for Future Implementation 62

Conclusion 65

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I: INTRODUCTION

A) BACKGROUND

Ukraine has a long history. The country has been controlled by different groups for many years.
Ukraine has long played an important, yet sometimes overlooked, role in the global security
order. Today, the country is on the front lines of a renewed great-power rivalry that many
analysts say will dominate international relations in the decades ahead. Up until 2014, things in
Ukraine were largely steady. Viktor Yanukovych took office as president in 2010. As a fervent
supporter of Russia, he vehemently disagreed with the EU’s stance of admitting Ukraine as a
member, since countries of the EU typically joined NATO later on due to US influence. The
cultural relations to Russia strengthened under Viktor’s presidency. However, the pro-Russian
president faced intense opposition as a result of the EU’s refusal to allow Ukraine to join, and as
a result, he lost the 2014 presidential election. However, the recently elected administration was
adamant on Ukraine joining the EU, which enraged Russia, which preferred for Ukraine to
remain independent of US influence. Russia invaded Ukraine in 2014 as a result, after pro-Putin
rebels took control of large areas of the country’s east. At that time, Russia also acquired Crimea,
which contributed to its growing power in the Black Sea region. This annexation caused Russia
to be kicked out of the G8 organisation, becoming the G7.2015 saw the signing of the Minsk
peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, ending the deadly armed conflict that was then
raging in east Ukraine. Russia declared that it will send “peacekeepers” to the area as the armed
conflict raged. Ukraine claims that Moscow took advantage of it as a justification to seize its
sovereign territory.

Ukraine pushed for a policy declaration in 2017 indicating its desire to join NATO. “The Parties
agree that an armed attack against one or more of them in Europe or North America shall be
considered an attack against them all,” reads Article 5 of the NATO Treaty. This meant that all
of the member states’ armies, primarily the US army, could enter Ukraine, which the US could
have exploited to attack its main adversary, Russia. Therefore, if Ukraine had joined NATO,
Russia would have been much more open to US attacks, and the cost to Russia’s national
security would have been enormous.

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1) OVERVIEW OF THE RUSSIA – UKRAINE WAR

The Russia-Ukraine war, originating from historical, political, and cultural complexities, gained
significant momentum in 2014 when Russia annexed Crimea, previously part of Ukraine. This
unilateral action sparked international condemnation. Subsequent conflict emerged in Eastern
Ukraine, marked by clashes between Ukrainian government forces and pro-Russian separatists.
The situation remains intricate, with diplomatic efforts ongoing to address the multifaceted
issues at the heart of the conflict.Conflict ensued in Eastern Ukraine, with pro-Russian
separatists opposing Ukrainian government forces. The war has resulted in a significant
humanitarian crisis, diplomatic disputes, and international condemnation. Efforts to find a
resolution continue amid ongoing challenges and geopolitical implications.

2) IMPORTANCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA)

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) serves as a systematic process to evaluate the potential
environmental consequences of proposed projects, policies, or programs. EIA helps identify and
mitigate potential adverse impacts on the environment, ensuring that development projects are
designed and executed in an environmentally responsible manner.EIA provides decision-makers
with comprehensive information about the environmental implications of various options,
enabling them to make informed choices that balance development needs with environmental
sustainability.This promotes transparency and inclusivity in environmental decision-
making.Many countries have laws and regulations that mandate EIA for certain types of projects.
Compliance with these requirements helps ensure that projects adhere to environmental
standards and regulations.EIA plays a vital role in promoting environmentally sound and
sustainable development by assessing and addressing potential environmental impacts associated
with human activities.

The process of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a methodical approach to assessing

the possible environmental effects of proposed policies, programs, or projects. EIA ensures that
development projects are planned and carried out in a way that is ecologically responsible by
assisting in the identification and mitigation of any negative environmental effects.EIA gives
decision-makers thorough knowledge of how different options will affect the environment,

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empowering them to make decisions that strike a balance between the needs of development and
environmental sustainability.This encourages inclusivity and transparency in environmental
decision-making.EIAs are required for specific sorts of projects by laws and regulations in many
different nations. Ensuring compliance with these parameters aids in guaranteeing that projects
follow environmental legislation and standards.EIA evaluates and addresses potential
environmental effects connected to human activity, which is essential to supporting
environmentally sound and sustainable development.

B) OBJECTIVES OF PAPER

1) UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF EIA IN CONFLICT ZONE

Going through the importance of role of EIA can be considered through saying that In order to
reduce environmental risks and promote sustainable development in areas impacted by conflict,
environmental impact assessments (EIAs) in conflict zones essentially go beyond conventional
environmental considerations and become a crucial component of peacebuilding and conflict-
sensitive tactics. In conflict areas, it can assist in incorporating conflict-sensitive methodologies
into development initiatives. Naturally occurring resources are frequently under more stress in
conflict areas. By spotting possible environmental stresses and suggesting solutions to ease
resource-related tensions, EIA can help with sustainable resource management. Involving local
communities in the EIA process can promote cooperation and confidence in conflict-affected
areas. It offers a forum for discussion, enabling community members to voice issues and
participate in the decision-making process, therefore lowering the possibility of new conflicts. It
aids in creating development projects that don’t worsen current. Talking about the Russia
Ukraine war, Environmental concerns have been raised by the Russia-Ukraine war because of
the possible harm to ecosystems, infrastructure, and release of toxic materials. Bombings and
military operations are two conflict-related actions that can contaminate land and water, affecting
not only the affected countries but also the bordering regions. These problems may also be made
worse by population displacement and disturbances to environmental management programs. In
order to ensure long-term sustainability and the welfare of impacted communities, it is
imperative that efforts be made to alleviate the environmental effects of the war.

2) EXTRACTING LESSONS FROM THE RUSSIAN -UKRAINE WAR

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The war between Russia and Ukraine emphasizes the significance of resolving these challenges
and the devastating effects that military conflicts have on the environment. Environmental
deterioration has an impact on neighboring countries beyond national boundaries. To manage
and reduce cross-border environmental challenges resulting from conflicts, cooperative efforts
and international collaboration are crucial. When vital infrastructure is disrupted by conflict,
there is a greater risk of environmental dangers such chemical spills, industrial facility
destruction, and soil and water contamination. Long-term disputes must be avoided by
employing strategies for safeguarding critical infrastructure. The management of ecosystems and
natural resources is complicated by population relocation brought on by conflicts. To prevent
additional degradation, it is essential to plan for the environmental effects of relocation,
including resource usage and waste management. When dangerous compounds are released
during combat, there are both short-term and long-term concerns. When deriving lessons from
the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, it is important to take into account a number of factors.
India, among other countries, ought to learn some harsh lessons from the crisis’ extensive
aftermath. One, it has demonstrated that having a sizable nuclear arsenal does not, in and of
itself, bring you the respect you seek or provide perpetual security. Over the years, Russia has
suffered humiliation; its security has been jeopardized by NATO’s unrelenting expansion and its
protests being ignored. Following the Revolution of Dignity and the signing of the Association
Agreement between the European Union and Ukraine in 2014, Ukraine has intensified its efforts
to tackle environmental issues and initiated a green transformation of its economic growth. Since
the beginning of the Russian invasion, attacks have been made on this advancement in the
economy and environment, setting.

C) RATIONALE/MOTIVATION

The process of assessing the possible environmental effects of a proposed project or policy prior
to implementation is known as the Environmental Impact Assessment, or EIA. Identifying,
forecasting, and reducing harmful environmental effects is its main goal in order to guarantee
sustainable development. Still, there is a lack of research and difficulty in the field of EIA
application in conflict zones. With regard to environmental management, conflict zones pose
particular difficulties because of things like resource depletion, pollution, and habitat destruction.

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It is essential for long-term stability, ecological preservation, and human well-being to
comprehend the environmental effects in conflict zones.

Examining environmental impact assessments (EIAs) in conflict areas is made relevant by the
Russia-Ukraine conflict. Significant environmental effects of this geopolitically complex conflict
include destruction of industrial facilities, contaminating water sources, and upsetting
ecosystems. Analysing the lessons this conflict's environmental fallout has taught us can help us
understand how well EIA manages and mitigates environmental effects in the face of ongoing
hostilities.

Implementing EIA in conflict areas presents a number of difficulties, including a lack of the
institutional capacity and governance frameworks required for efficient environmental
management. Additionally, environmental considerations may be neglected in the haste to
address pressing security and humanitarian issues. The goal of this research is to identify
obstacles to the application of EIA in conflict zones and suggest solutions.

The research's conclusions have important ramifications for national and international policy,
strengthening the resilience of communities and ecosystems impacted by conflict. Policymakers
attempting to address the underlying causes and effects of conflicts are increasingly interested in
comprehending the environmental aspects of such conflicts.

D) JUSTIFICATION

In conflict zones, like the Russia-Ukraine conflict, environmental impact assessment (EIA)
research is essential for addressing both short- and long-term environmental consequences.
Armed conflicts, like the current hostilities in the area, cause both short-term and long-term
environmental damage, making thorough research necessary to stop additional degradation and
make effective post-conflict reconstruction possible. Conflict zones pose particular difficulties
for environmental management because of the devastation of infrastructure, the exploitation of
resources, and the uprooting of communities.

Beyond environmental issues, conflicts have a direct impact on human populations through
contaminating water sources, exposing them to dangerous materials, and demolishing important
infrastructure. Understanding and reducing these consequences for public health and

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humanitarianism makes conducting EIA research in the context of the conflict between Russia
and Ukraine necessary.

Research on EIA in conflict areas offers insightful information that can guide global conflict
resolution initiatives in the future. The knowledge gained can aid in the creation of best practices
and regulations for incorporating environmental impact assessments into conflict resolution
frameworks. The findings of this study may improve the efficacy of foreign interventions and
build stronger, more resilient societies that have recovered from conflict.

EIA research in conflict areas supports international environmental governance, emphasizes the
need for coordination and cooperation between nations to address environmental issues resulting
from conflicts, and directs the creation of laws and other frameworks that encourage
international cooperation in order to reduce negative effects on the environment and advance
sustainable development.

Finally, since ignoring the environmental aspect of conflict resolution procedures can have long-
term negative effects, it is morally required to conduct research on EIA in conflict zone.

E) RELEVANCE

Within the framework of contemporary Human Rights Studies, the applicability of

Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) in conflict zones is highly significant, especially
when learning from the Russia-Ukraine Conflict. First, the right to a healthy environment is
significantly impacted by the environmental effects of armed conflicts. The general well-being of
the impacted populations is directly impacted by the devastation of ecosystems, tainted water
supplies, and destroyed infrastructure in conflict zones. By demonstrating how environmental
degradation violates the fundamental right to live in a healthy environment and highlighting the
connection between environmental protection and the realization of human rights, EIA research
adds to the field of human rights studies.

Second, the study of EIA in conflict areas is consistent with the contemporary human rights
frameworks' recognition of the right to life and a means of subsistence. The fundamental
conditions required to sustain life and livelihoods are put in jeopardy by the destruction and
disruption brought on by armed conflicts. The research sheds light on how armed conflicts affect
people's rights to life and livelihood by analyzing the environmental effects of conflict zones.

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This information helps human rights advocates and policymakers create strategies to defend
these fundamental rights in areas where armed conflicts are prevalent.

Thirdly, the intersection of human rights studies and EIA in conflict areas highlights the need to
protect populations that are particularly vulnerable. Groups that are more susceptible to the
effects ofironmental degradation as a result of conflict include women, children, and
marginalized communities. Targeted interventions and policies to protect the rights of these
vulnerable populations are made possible by an understanding of the intersections between
environmental factors and human rights, particularly in conflict settings. By highlighting the
intricate difficulties that various demographic groups in conflict-affected areas face and
providing direction for efforts to protect and ensure their well-being, the research advances the
field of human rights studies.

F) STATEMENT OF PROBLEM

The research problem focuses on the insufficient integration of environmental impact assessment
practices in conflict zones, particularly in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The research aims to
address the insufficient frameworks for environmental impact assessments in dealing with the
complexity of conflict zones, highlighting the neglect of environmental concerns in the heat of
battle. The research also investigates the gaps in data collection, analysis, and integration of
findings into conflict resolution and reconstruction strategies. The impact of environmental
degradation on human rights in conflict zones is another concern. The research aims to
understand how environmental degradation resulting from armed conflict compromises the rights
of vulnerable populations, their right to life and livelihood, and their right to a healthy
environment. The research challenges current frameworks that may ignore the
interconnectedness of these issues and recommends a more comprehensive and successful
integration of environmental impact assessment practices within the framework of armed
conflicts.

II) RELATED LITERATURE

 Title- Russia’s military conflict against Ukraine and its impact on the European
Union’s wealth. Can good governance counteract the effects of the war? By-
Camelia Negri and Gheorghita Dinca

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The purpose of this study is to ascertain whether, in the post-pandemic scenario, the conflict
between Russia and Ukraine has a noteworthy effect on Member States of the European Union
(EU), specifically on the EU countries' economic output. The effects of war, as evidenced by the
intensifying energy crisis, inflation, restricted trade, reorganisation of government spending, and
the migrant crisis, as well as economic freedom and governance quality as components of
neoliberal doctrine, are studied in relation to the economic wealth of EU Member States for the
period of 1995–2021. This is done using difference-in-difference methodology in conjunction
with panel data econometric techniques. According to the conclusions of recent research, conflict
significantly affects the economic production of the European Union, particularly for the
member states that depend most on Russia for their energy imports. The difference in difference
analysis is used to calculate the impact of war on gdp cap, which results in a −405.08 euros per
capita decrease in economic output in the European countries under consideration. Using panel
regression analysis, it can be seen that the EU economies' economic growth is adversely affected
by inflation, trade restrictions, defence and military spending, and a greater reliance on energy.
Furthermore, considering the study's findings, public policymakers might use this information to
help prepare the EU economy for the upcoming phase of war shock recovery.

 A Literature Review of the Impact of Russia Ukraine Conflict on the Global

Economy and China’s Countermeasures Under the Background of Agent Strategy.
By- Liyang Hao(B) , Junshui Feng, Xingshun Zhang, and Zeting Hu Rocket Force
University of Engineering, Baqiao District, Xi’an, Shaanxi

In addition to methodically summarizing the various effects of the current conflict between
Russia and Ukraine on the global economy, the summary primarily explains the meaning,
motivation, and mode of operation of the agent war. This information is useful for studying the
future course of the global economy under the agent war movement mode and provides pertinent
background information for our nation to conduct a thorough analysis of agent war.

 Russian-Ukrainian war impacts the total environment. By-

Paulo Pereira, Ferdo Bašić, Igor Bogunovic , Damia Barcelo
This discussion paper seeks to explore the potential ramifications of the extensive conflict on
ecosystems and their services. Despite the ongoing nature of the war, there are indications of
significant air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions resulting from intense combat. Military

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operations were conducted near the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant (the largest in Europe) and
Chernobyl, heightening concerns about potential radiation leaks. Biodiversity is under substantial
threat due to extensive deforestation and habitat destruction, with potential repercussions for
wildlife. Activities such as bombing, trenching, and tunnel excavations are likely to negatively
impact soil quality and landscape morphology. This is particularly significant as Ukraine
possesses some of the most fertile soils globally (Chernozem), affecting food production. Water
availability and quality are also at risk due to infrastructure damage and the transport of
pollutants to water reserves. Ecosystem services are expected to be significantly compromised,
as deforestation reduces the ability of ecosystems to regulate air pollution and climate. Soil
degradation will impede food production, and the destruction of landscape aesthetics, cultural
heritage, and social cohesion will drastically affect cultural services. The considerable impacts
on human health are already evident and may escalate further due to exposure to high
contamination levels and deteriorating sanitary conditions. With the ongoing nature of the
conflict, there is considerable uncertainty regarding the full extent of the impacts, but a profound
effect on the overall environment is anticipated.

 Impact of the Russia–Ukraine armed conflict on water resources and water

infrastructure By- Oleksandra Shumilova, Klement Tockner,Alexander
Sukhodolov, Valentyn Khilchevskyi, Luc De Meester, Sergiy Stepanenko, Ganna
Trokhymenko, Juan Antonio Hernández-Agüero & Peter Gleick
In this paper, they have examined the complex effects of the military operations on water
infrastructure and freshwater resources in the first three months of the war. We determined the
types of pressures placed on the water sector, the nature of the impacts, and the detrimental
effects on the availability and quality of freshwater resources for the general public. Our findings
demonstrated that a wide range of water infrastructures, including subsurface mines, water
supply and treatment systems, and dams at reservoirs, have been impacted by or are vulnerable
to military operations. The conflict's continuation will have detrimental effects on sustainability
that will affect not only Ukraine but the entire world as well. These effects will include
hampered efforts to achieve clean water and sanitation, water resource conservation and
sustainable use, energy and food security, and conservation.

 Environmental damages due to war in Ukraine: A perspective. By-

Deepak Rawtani , Gunjan Gupta, Nitasha Khatri, Piyush K. Rao, Chaudhery
Mustansar Hussain
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The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the most significant conflict in Europe since the Second World
War, carries severe geopolitical, economic, and health implications. Infrastructure damage,
including contamination of water sources, poses hazards to human and ecosystem health. Air
quality deterioration, radiation risks, soil impacts on agriculture, deforestation, and biodiversity
loss are immediate concerns. The war's long-term repercussions on climate change, sustainable
development goals, and global pollution control necessitate international reforms, including
accountability for environmental crimes. Urgent implementation of new international norms to
protect the environment during conflicts is imperative for safeguarding both environmental and
human security.

 The Environmental Footprint of War. By- joseph P. Hupy

The historical focus on environmental factors influencing battle outcomes has shifted to consider
the impact of warfare on the environment. While some literature explores this, attention is
needed for the direct effects of battle on the environment. Warfare, a potent force for landscape
change, surpasses other anthropogenic disturbances in magnitude. Its unique ability to cause
widespread destruction quickly is often overlooked as a significant form of disturbance. Modern
warfare's extensive and lasting impacts radically reshape landscapes, hindering their ability to
return to their original state. This article discusses the direct effects of war on the physical
landscape and the increased magnitude of disturbance over the past century.

A) SYNTHESIS
The synthesis of this article involves a multidimensional exploration of the environmental impact
resulting from the Russia-Ukraine conflict. By integrating data on ecosystem changes, air and
water quality fluctuations, and soil degradation, this study aims to present a holistic
understanding of the environmental consequences inflicted by the conflict.
B) QUESTIONS / HYPOTHESIS / PROJECT IDEAS
It is hypothesized that the Russia-Ukraine conflict has led to substantial environmental
degradation, affecting ecosystems, air and water quality, and soil composition. The synthesis of
various environmental indicators will substantiate this hypothesis, providing a foundation for
informed decision-making and potential remediation strategies to mitigate the ecological
consequences in the conflict-affected areas.

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III) METHODOLOGY
Our research has been based on Doctrinal research and secondary sources of information.
A) DESIGN AND METHOD

Conduct an extensive review of existing literature on the environmental impacts of conflicts,

focusing on case studies and methodologies employed in similar assessments. Utilize satellite
imagery and remote sensing data to assess landscape changes.
Access governmental reports, scientific publications, and environmental agency data to
supplement on-ground observations. Identify key indicators for assessing environmental impacts,
including changes in biodiversity, air and water pollution levels, and alterations in soil quality.
Utilize qualitative analysis methods, such as content analysis and thematic coding, to interpret
narratives from local communities and experts. Compare pre-conflict and post-conflict
environmental data to discern patterns, trends, and anomalies, enabling a comprehensive
evaluation of the conflict's impact.
IV) ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT: CONCEPTUAL
FRAMEWORK
A. DEFINITION AND SCOPE OF EIA

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a systematic process that evaluates the potential
environmental effects of a proposed project, plan, or program. Its primary goal is to identify,
predict, and mitigate the adverse environmental impacts while promoting sustainable
development.

The scope of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is broad and includes various key
elements to comprehensively assess the potential environmental effects of a proposed project.
The main components of the EIA process are:

i) Project Identification: Determining which projects or activities require an EIA.

ii) Screening: Assessing the significance of potential impacts to decide if a detailed EIA
is necessary.

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 iii) Scoping: Defining the boundaries of the study and identifying key issues to be
addressed.
iv) Baseline Studies: Assessing the existing environmental conditions in the project area
before the proposed development.
v) Impact Assessment: Identifying and predicting the potential positive and negative
environmental, social, and economic impacts of the project.
vi) Mitigation and Alternatives: Recommending measures to minimize or eliminate
adverse impacts and exploring alternative project options.
vii) Public Participation: Involving stakeholders and the public in the decision-making
process, including gathering input and addressing concerns.
viii) Decision-making: Providing decision-makers with comprehensive information to
make informed choices about the project.
ix) Monitoring and Follow-up: Implementing and monitoring the effectiveness of
mitigation measures after project approval.

The scope of EIA is not limited to specific sectors and can be applied to a wide range of projects,
including infrastructure development, industrial activities, land use planning, and policies. The
ultimate goal is to ensure sustainable development by balancing economic growth with
environmental and social considerations.

B. PURPOSE AND GOALS OF EIA

The purpose of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is to systematically evaluate the

potential environmental, social, and economic impacts of a proposed project, plan, or program
before it is approved or implemented. The goals of EIA are:

i) Identification of Impacts: To identify and assess the potential positive and negative
effects that a proposed project may have on the environment, public health, and
communities.
ii) Informed Decision-Making: To provide decision-makers with comprehensive
information about the anticipated impacts, allowing them to make informed choices
regarding the project's approval, modification, or rejection.

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 iii) Mitigation and Alternatives: To propose measures to mitigate adverse impacts and
explore alternative project options that may have fewer environmental and social
consequences.
iv) Public Participation: To involve the public and stakeholders in the decision-making
process, ensuring that their concerns and perspectives are considered, and promoting
transparency and accountability.
v) Sustainable Development: To contribute to sustainable development by balancing
economic development with environmental protection and social well-being.
vi) Legal Compliance: To ensure that the proposed project complies with relevant
environmental laws, regulations, and policies.
vii) Risk Management: To assess and manage potential risks associated with the project,
including natural disasters, pollution, and other environmental hazards.
viii) Monitoring and Enforcement: To establish mechanisms for monitoring the
implementation of mitigation measures and enforcing compliance with environmental
safeguards.

By achieving these goals, EIA aims to foster responsible and sustainable development
that minimizes adverse impacts on the environment and society.

C. RELEVANCE IN CONFLICT ZONES

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) remains relevant in conflict zones for several important
reasons:

i) Humanitarian Considerations: Conflict zones often face significant challenges,

including displacement of populations and disruption of essential services. EIA helps
consider the environmental and social impacts of development projects, ensuring that
they do not exacerbate existing humanitarian crises or create new challenges.
ii) Resource Management: In conflict zones, there may be increased pressure on natural
resources due to population movements or resource exploitation for funding conflicts.
EIA can help assess the environmental consequences of such resource use and
propose sustainable management practices.

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 iii) Post-Conflict Recovery: EIA can play a crucial role in the post-conflict recovery
phase by guiding the reconstruction and development efforts. It helps ensure that
rebuilding activities are environmentally sustainable, socially responsible, and
contribute to long-term stability.
iv) Post-Conflict Recovery: EIA can play a crucial role in the post-conflict recovery
phase by guiding the reconstruction and development efforts. It helps ensure that
rebuilding activities are environmentally sustainable, socially responsible, and
contribute to long-term stability.
v) Preventing Environmental Degradation: Conflict situations can lead to environmental
degradation through activities such as deforestation, unregulated mining, or improper
waste disposal. EIA can identify and mitigate these impacts, contributing to the
prevention of long-term environmental damage.
vi) Conflict Prevention: By addressing environmental and social concerns through EIA,
it is possible to prevent conflicts that may arise from resource competition or
environmental degradation. Understanding and managing potential triggers can
contribute to conflict prevention and resolution.
vii) International Standards and Aid: Many international organizations and donors require
adherence to environmental and social standards in their aid and development
projects. EIA ensures that projects in conflict zones meet these standards, making
them eligible for funding and support.

In summary, EIA in conflict zones is crucial for minimizing further harm to people and the
environment, promoting sustainable development, and contributing to post-conflict recovery and
stability.

2. UNIQUE CHALLENGES:

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in conflict zones presents unique challenges due to the
complex and volatile nature of such areas. Some specific challenges include:

 Security Risks: Conducting field studies and assessments can be challenging due to
security risks for assessment teams. The presence of armed groups and the potential for
violence can hinder the collection of accurate and comprehensive data.

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 Limited Access: Conflict zones may have restricted access to certain areas, making it
difficult to gather necessary information for a thorough EIA. This limitation can result in
incomplete assessments and an inadequate understanding of potential environmental
impacts.
 Data Reliability: The availability and reliability of existing environmental data in conflict
zones are often compromised. Historical data may be scarce, outdated, or unreliable,
making it challenging to establish accurate baseline conditions for impact assessments.
 Dynamic Situations: Conflict zones are characterized by rapidly changing conditions,
including population displacement, infrastructure damage, and shifting political
landscapes. These dynamics can impact the relevance and accuracy of EIA findings over
time.
 Stakeholder Engagement Challenges: Engaging with local communities and stakeholders
can be challenging due to fear, mistrust, and communication barriers resulting from the
conflict. Obtaining meaningful input from affected populations becomes more difficult,
affecting the inclusivity of the assessment process.
 Lack of Institutional Capacity: Conflict-affected areas often have weakened or non-
existent governmental institutions and regulatory frameworks. This lack of institutional
capacity can hinder the enforcement and monitoring of mitigation measures identified in
the EIA.
 Resource Exploitation: Conflict zones may experience heightened exploitation of natural
resources to fund armed activities. EIA needs to address the environmental impacts of
these resource extractions and identify ways to prevent further degradation.
 Post-Conflict Uncertainty: The aftermath of conflict introduces uncertainties in terms of
governance, infrastructure, and the ability to implement and enforce environmental
safeguards. Planning for and adapting to the post-conflict context becomes a critical
aspect of EIA.
 Cross-border Impacts: Conflicts often transcend national borders, and environmental
impacts may extend beyond political boundaries. Coordinating EIA efforts across borders
and involving multiple stakeholders from different countries can be challenging.

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Addressing these challenges requires a tailored and flexible approach, involving collaboration
between environmental experts, local communities, and international organizations to ensure that
EIA processes in conflict zones are effective and contribute to sustainable development and
peacebuilding.

I. OPPORTUNITIES FOR MITIGATION AND CONSERVATION:

To foster Conservation and mitigate tensions Between Russian and Ukraine, several key steps
can be considered:

o Diplomatic Dialogue:
 Initiate and sustain diplomatic talks at various levels to address concerns and find
common ground.
 Encourage direct communication channels between leaders to facilitate
understanding.

o International Mediation:

 Seek assistance from neutral international entities or mediators to facilitate negotiations.

 Engage with organizations like the United Nations or the Organization for Security and
Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) for mediation support.
o Conflict Resolution Mechanisms:
 Establish or reinforce existing conflict resolution mechanisms that involve both
countries.
 Implement agreements that provide frameworks for dispute resolution.
o Economic Cooperation:
 Encourage economic cooperation and mutually beneficial trade agreements to
foster interdependence.
 Develop joint economic projects that can promote collaboration and shared
interests.
o Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges:

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  Promote cultural exchanges and people-to-people initiatives to build
understanding and goodwill.
 Facilitate educational programs that encourage cross-cultural interactions.
o Respect for Sovereignty:
 Emphasize the importance of respecting each other's sovereignty and territorial
integrity.
 Address concerns related to security and find compromises that ensure both
countries feel secure.
o International Support:
 Garner support from the international community for a peaceful resolution.
 Engage with allies and neighbouring countries to build a supportive regional
environment.
o Humanitarian Measures:
 Collaborate on humanitarian efforts to address shared challenges, such as refugee
situations or natural disasters.
 Demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of affected populations.
o Trust-Building Measures:
 Implement confidence-building measures to rebuild trust gradually.
 Foster cultural, scientific, and educational collaborations that transcend political
differences.
o Media Engagement:
 Encourage responsible media reporting that avoids escalating tensions.
 Facilitate cross-border journalistic exchanges to promote unbiased reporting.

It's important to note that the success of these measures depends on the willingness of both
parties to engage in open and constructive dialogue. Sustainable solutions often require time,
patience, and commitment from all involved stakeholders.

3. LEGAL AND POLICY CONTEXT

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A. INTERNATIONAL LEGAL FRAMEWORK

1. APPLICABILITY OF INTERNATIONAL LAW IN CONFLICT ZONES

Article 2(4) of the UN Charter provides that all members of the UN andquot;shall refrain in their
international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political
independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United
Nations.andquot; Along similar lines, Article 2(3) of the Charter requires all member states to
andquot;settle their international disputes by peaceful means in such a manner that international
peace and security, and justice, are not endangered.andquot;[33] The only two exceptions
enhsrined in the UN Charter are self-defense and an authorization by the Security Council.Many
experts on international law and foreign affairs have opined that the Russian invasion of Ukraine
violated these principles, namely Article 2(4)and; prohibition on the andquot;use of
forceandquot; against other states.[34] As detailed below, they have also generally rejected the
Russian governmentand; official legal justifications for the invasion of Ukraine.Self-defense
justification

Russia has argued that its use of force against Ukraine is lawful under Article 51 of the UN
Charter, which preserves the rights of UN member states to defend themselves against
andquot;an armed attackandquot; and to engage in andquot;collective self-defense.andquot;
Specifically, Russia has claimed that it may use force against Ukraine in order to defend the
Donetsk Peopleand#039;s Republic and the Luhansk Peopleand; Republic, which Russia
recognizes as independent states.International law and foreign policy experts such as John
B.Bellinger III, Gabriella Blum, Naz Modirzadeh, and Anthony Dworkin have criticized this
argument.[2][4][6] Bellinger and Dworkin argued that Russia cannot rely on a self-defense
justification because Ukrainehas not threatened or attacked any other nation.[2][6] All four
scholars also suggested that even if Ukraine had been planning an attack against Donetsk or
Luhansk, Russia could not invoke Article 51and#039;s collective self-defense provision because
these regions are not recognized as separate states under international law.[2][4][6] Allen Weiner
of Stanford Law School made a similar argument, likening Russiaand#039;s collective self-
defense arguments to a hypothetical situation where a modern entity calling itself the
independent andquot;Republic of Texasandquot; invited a foreign government to send troops to
fight against the United States.[5][35] Genocide/humanitarian intervention justification

23 | P a g e
Likewise, experts have rejected Russiaand#039;s argument that its invasion is justified on
humanitarian grounds to protect Russian-speakers in the Donbass.Some commentators have
questioned whether international law (including the UN Charter and the Genocide Convention)
even allows nations to use force against another country to remedy genocide or human rights
violations, as the legality of humanitarian intervention is heavily disputed.[2][5] The same goes
for Russiaand; implicit reliance on the so-called protection of nationals doctrine [36] which, even
if accepted, only applies to situations of less intensitivy (like hostage-takings) and requires an
actual threat, lack of cooperation by the government of the country where nationals are being
threatened, and a minimum of force.In any event, Russiaands humanitarian justifications for the
invasion are widely perceived as a pretext, and are unsubstantiated by any evidence that Ukraine
has committed, or is committing any acts against Russians in Donetsk and Luhansk that could
amount to genocide.

2. TREATIES AND CONVENTIONS RELATED TO ENVIRONMENTAL

PROTECTION

International humanitarian law (IHL), also called the law of war or the law of armed conflict, is
the legal framework applicable to situations of armed conflict and occupation. As a set of
standards and principles, it aims to limit the effects of armed conflicts for humanitarian
reasons. Fundamental to international humanitarian law are the following two principles:

Persons who do not or no longer take part in hostilities must be protected; and

The right of the parties to an armed conflict to choose methods and means of warfare is not
unlimited.

International humanitarian law is part of international law. International law is a

comprehensive system of treaties, customary law, principles and norms. The framework
traditionally only regulated relations between states. However, it has evolved to include a
wide range of actors. International humanitarian law is notable in this regard as it recognizes
obligations for both States and non-State armed groups involved in an armed conflict.

International humanitarian law regulates activities in armed conflicts and occupation situations.
It is distinct from, and applies independently of, the laws governing the use of armed force.

24 | P a g e
This framework is known as jus ad bellum and is enshrined in the United Nations Charter. It
regulates the conditions under which force may be used, i.e. in self-defense and in accordance
with the authorization of the UN Security Council. Once an armed conflict occurs,
international humanitarian law applies to all parties, regardless of whether a party was legally
entitled to use force under the principles of jus ad bellum.

CLASSIFICATION OF ARMED CONFLICTS

The IHL classifies armed conflicts as international armed conflicts (IAC) or non-international
armed conflicts (NIAC). The proper categorization of an armed conflict is necessary to
determine which rules apply to the conflict: those of a CAI (found mainly in the four Geneva
Conventions and Additional Protocol I) or those of a NIAC (mainly in Article 3 of the
Common Geneva Convention to find). Four Geneva Conventions and Additional Protocol II).
Occupation situations are governed by international humanitarian law, that is, by the Fourth
Geneva Convention and Additional Protocol I.

Whether or not an armed conflict is an IAC or a NIAC has important implications. For
example, prisoner of war (POW) status and combatant status are found only in the rules
applicable to IACs. The rules for the conduct of hostilities and access and humanitarian
assistance are more detailed for IACs. In total there are almost 600 contractual rules applicable
to TSIs; those applicable to NIACs are less than 30. This lack of guidance can be challenging
since most current conflicts involve NIACs. To address this issue, one can resort to customary
international law, which contains a number of rules developed for both CAI and NIAC
situations.

The definition of IAC can be found in the second common article of the four Geneva
Conventions. It states that the IAC rules apply to “all cases of declarations of war or other
armed conflicts which may arise between two or more of the High Contracting Parties.” . . .”
Therefore, an IAC can only exist between two or more states.

In the third common article of the four Geneva Conventions, a NIAC is defined in the negative
sense as “an armed conflict that is not of an international character”. Therefore, if a non-state
armed group is involved in the armed conflict, it is classified as a NIAC. This could be the
case, for example, when a state fights against an armed group or when two non-state armed

25 | P a g e
groups fight against each other. Common Article 3 and customary international law would
govern both scenarios. In order for Additional Protocol II to be applicable, certain requirements
must be met. In an armed conflict, a state must take one side and fight against an armed
group. This state must have signed Additional Protocol II for it to be applicable. In addition, the
non-state armed group must be organized so that it is under responsible leadership and
controls part of the territory in a way that allows it to carry out military operations.

The use of the phrase “global war on terrorism” has led to some misunderstandings regarding
the application of international humanitarian law to certain situations. The “global war on
terrorism” is a political phrase, not a legal term. Therefore, the “global war on terrorism” is not
an armed conflict. The right way to analyze the conflicts that fall under this umbrella is to look
at the locations of the conflict: Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia, Yemen, etc. – and evaluate each of
them in terms of whether it is an IAC or a NIAC governed by the relevant framework.

KEY INSTRUMENTS OF IHL

Treaties and customary international law are the two main sources of the rules and regulations
of IHL. Treaties are agreements between states, and those states that ratify a treaty are bound by
its provisions. Although a non-state armed group cannot sign a treaty, these actors are subject
to the rules of international humanitarian law treaties, such as Common Article Three and
Additional Protocol II.

B. NATIONAL LEGAL FRAMEWORKS

1. ROLE OF DOMESTIC LAWS IN FACILITATING OR HINDERING

EIAS

The war between Russia and Ukraine: An Environmental Catastrophe

Who will clothe the life forms burned and mute through no fault of their own? War always
brings disasters and conflicts. When humans, Homo sapiens, “The Wise” and the most
advanced species on earth unleash wars and suffer themselves, there is a tremendous outcry.
Everyone suffers: from babies to adults, the weak, the sick and the elderly. Many international
organizations come forward and help the war victims. In times of war, the big question arises:
What happens to other species of flora and fauna? Do they have the right to live? Who takes

26 | P a g e
care of them? If millions of Ukrainians have sought refuge in different parts of the world, where
will other life forms go or seek refuge? Russians have enmity with Ukrainians. Do the flora
and fauna of Ukraine also have the same nationality? Do animals and plants have a nationality?
If not, then why do they have to bear the burden of all the wars in the world? Why can’t
measures be taken to protect these silent life forms in these times? And why can’t some
measures be taken for the homeless and wordless even after the war? These life forms are
displaced and eventually die and no longer have protection. It is time for us humans, who have
the power to decide which species live and which die, to take a moment to think about and feel
the plight of other living creatures on this earth, even in times of war. Do these times urgently
require a special convention to protect these forms of life?

According to some online news sources:

“The Russian invasion of Ukraine changed the world in an instant. Millions have already fled.
A new Iron Curtain is erected. An economic war is intensifying as military conflict intensifies
and civilian casualties mount.”

“United Nations member states expressed concern about the environmental impact of the
Russia-Ukraine crisis at the opening session of the United Nations Environment Assembly
brought. Russia says they are hypocrites. The resumption of the fifth session of the United
Nations Environment Assembly (Unea 5.2) began in the Kenyan capital Nairobi, with some
world leaders condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine and expressing concern about the
environmental impact of the conflict. Russia called the concern “hypocrisy.” The meeting
coincides with the release of the sixth report of the International Panel on Climate Change. It
details the dire impacts of the climate crisis on humanity, biodiversity and marine life. As
environmental concerns over the conflict overshadow the world’s highest environmental
decision-making body, urgent concerns have emerged about the triple threat of the climate
crisis, biodiversity loss and pollution.”

“Ten humanitarian corridors of action to evacuate citizens.” Were agreed with Russia, as
reported by Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister Iryna Vereshchuk. Reuters reported that
Vereshchuk said an agreement had been reached on a corridor to the besieged city of Mariupol,
although previous efforts by authorities to evacuate civilians there under a temporary ceasefire
largely failed and both sides blamed each other. Some 350,000 civilians are stranded in the city

27 | P a g e
with little food and water.”3,, It is important to note here that after 24 days of war, it is difficult
to cope with Ukraine’s war-torn citizens; What about the situations of all other life forms? I
believe that a treaty is needed in this area and that people from all over the world should step
forward to help these helpless creatures. We have conventions like CBD, CM, S and CITES;
Perhaps what we need now is another “Protection of Species in War” (CSDW) treaty.

2. CHALLENGES IN IMPLEMENTATION

In its war against Ukraine, Russia has sought to cripple the country’s critical infrastructure. It
has attacked homes and hospitals, transportation networks and farmland, civilian nuclear and
power plants, drinking water and sewage systems, chemical and steel plants, mining facilities
and vital seed banks.

An unprovoked war will have humanitarian and ecological consequences long after the guns
and rocket launchers have fallen silent. Nowhere is this more evident than at the Nova
Kakhovka Dam, which was destroyed a few weeks ago.

The destruction of the dam has destroyed vegetation, eroded banks and contaminated drinking
water sources with 150 tons of heavy fuel oil as well as contaminated sediments and human and
animal remains. The loss of the dam also threatens the water supply to cool the reactors at the
Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. Ukrainian officials have estimated that the total damage
from the dam’s destruction will be more than £1.2 billion.

As the United States and other countries commit billions to rebuilding Ukraine, we must
address the environmental and health disasters of war if reconstruction efforts are possible. The
free world must also support Ukraine in building more resilient and sustainable cities and
communities to improve human and environmental health and enable rapid recovery from
natural and man-made disasters. There will be two critical priorities that need to be pushed
forward together. One of them is to eliminate the remnants of the war and return Ukrainians
safely to their homes. The other Is to rebuild Ukraine’s infrastructure with modern,
decentralized, nature-based systems.

But before there can be a real recovery and reconstruction of the Russian-occupied territories,
we must urgently remove the landmines that Ukrainian officials say were washed away by the
floods of the now-free Dnieper River and redeposited in new areas. Added to this are the

28 | P a g e
complicated and challenging tasks of disposing of unexploded ordnance and defusing
improvised explosive devices. In addition to killing and maiming Ukraine’s civilian population,
these explosive hazards are exacerbating food insecurity by driving farmers away from
farmland and preventing the restoration of damaged agricultural storage and processing
facilities.

By the end of this fiscal year, the United States will have provided more than $91.5 million in
demining assistance to help the Government of Ukraine address this urgent humanitarian
challenge.

Ensuring the safe return of displaced people and a meaningful economic recovery for Ukraine
also requires programs to clean up the environment and restore basic urban services such as
clean water, functioning sanitation systems and the ability to properly dispose of waste. With 70
percent of Ukrainians living in urban areas, rebuilding critical infrastructure such as hospitals,
sanitation and water systems and energy networks, as well as schools and housing will be
crucial. For example, some modern wastewater treatment plants use anaerobic digesters to
convert waste into methane. This generates electricity that drives the treatment process and
feeds the power grid. These types of distributed facilities will also help decentralize energy
production from a few primary sources that can be knocked offline by missile strikes on key
targets.

The United States Is committed to supporting Ukraine in creating more decentralized systems,
including distributed and renewable energy production, and integrating nature-based solutions
that combat pollution, purify air and water, and mitigate floods and heat waves. Our own
experience offers models for how this can happen. For example, the Mississippi River basin,
which spans 31 U.S. states, experienced a historic flood in 2019 that caused more than $6
billion in damages. To mitigate such flooding in the future, mayors of more than 100 cities and
towns then worked closely with local and global environmental groups to begin restoring
66,000 hectares of wetlands, forests and marshes and adapting the land to regulate water flow
becomes. Rainwater. , aiming to create resilience in historically ignored communities.

When completed, these restored areas in the United States will sequester more than 165,000
tons of carbon from the air. This equates to the loss of around 36,000 cars per year. The
protection of cities and communities from flooding will also be improved. When St. Louis,

29 | P a g e
 Missouri, experienced a “one-in-1,000-year rainfall event” in 2022, surrounding wetlands
absorbed enough stormwater to fill 750 Olympic-sized swimming pools, saving millions of
dollars in potential damage.

The world has come together to support Ukraine with billions of dollars in humanitarian,
security assistance and economic support since Russia’s all-out invasion. This assistance has
been instrumental in preventing Ukraine from giving in to Russian aggression.

3. EIA CHALLENGES IN CONFLICT ZONES: LESSONS FROM THE

RUSSIA-UKRAINE CONFLICT
A. IDENTIFICATION OF KEY CHALLENGES
i. IMPACT OF MILITARY ACTIVITIES ON THE ENVIRONMENT

Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 caused long-term, widespread and potentially severe
environmental damage. The Ukrainian government, journalists and international observers
describe the damage as ecological carnage. The explosion deals toxic and physical damage.
Toxic particles from each explosion; Lead, mercury, depleted uranium, etc.; It spreads through
air, water and soil. Breathing explosives such as TNT, DNT and RDX can cause illness. Fighting
in highly industrialized areas leads to technological disasters, such as waste and fuel spills, which
pollute not only Ukraine, but also large areas of Europe and Russia. Ruined buildings emit
carcinogenic dust for decades. [Not confirmed in body] Heavy metals and chemicals seep into
groundwater, contaminating water sources and killing all life in rivers and reservoirs. More than
4 million people do not have access to clean drinking water due to the destruction of civil
infrastructure. Soils in military conflict zones are no longer suitable for agriculture because
plants absorb and accumulate pollutants. War also increases the risk of nuclear accidents. Power
shortages at nuclear power plants and fighting near them could lead to disasters like Chernobyl
or Fukushima. Military CO2 emissions amount to hundreds of millions of tons and violate the
goals of the Paris Agreement. More than 12,000 square kilometers (4,600 sq mi) of Ukraine's
reserves have become a war zone. Populations of rare endemic and migratory birds have suffered
massive losses, forcing birds to abandon their nests and change their usual migration routes.
Decades of efforts by conservation projects have been in vain. Total environmental damage
cannot be calculated until the war is over. According to preliminary data, the restoration of

30 | P a g e
nature in Ukraine will take at least 15 years. The environmental damage caused by war can last
for centuries.[1] Studies have shown that soils near Ypres, Belgium, still contain over 2,000 tons
of post-World War I copper. In Iran, the soil is still contaminated with mercury and chlorine
from fighting during the Iranian Revolution. The first and second Chechen wars left more than
30% of Chechnya's land unsuitable for agriculture. Depending on soil pH and access to oxygen
and water, it takes 100 to 300 years for munitions to decompose. Ruined cities pose a major
environmental threat because unexploded ordnance remains buried under rubble, destroyed
buildings emit carcinogenic dust (sometimes for decades), and millions of tons of debris cannot
be recycled. Asbestos can be released from piles into the air. Large-scale forced migration puts
great strain on the infrastructure of host areas. Refugee camps collect trash, but recycling
facilities are virtually non-existent.

Explosions, destroyed weapons and vehicles, burning and spilled fuel pollute the air, water and
soil. Each bomb explosion releases particles of heavy metals, formaldehyde, nitrous oxide,
hydrogen cyanide and toxic organic compounds. These pollutants are spread by wind and
groundwater, so the dangerous environmental impacts of the war will have a direct impact on
Russia and Europe. Explosives release compounds that can oxidize in the air and cause acid rain.
They can "burn" plants and the respiratory organs of mammals (including humans). [Medical
reference required]95-97% of ammunition is lead, the rest being zinc, nickel, barium,
manganese, copper and antimony. Sometimes it also contains depleted uranium. Lead is highly
toxic and easily absorbed. It enters the human body not only when eating or drinking, but also
through the skin and hair. Long-term exposure to lead can cause kidney failure, and even short-
term exposure can affect the nervous system, causing encephalopathy, anemia, and loss of
coordination and memory. Similar neurotoxic effects are also found in animals. Depleted
uranium particles are 100 times smaller than white blood cells and easily bypass the blood-brain
barrier. They go directly to the olfactory nerve and interfere with cognitive processes. Antimony
causes inflammation in the cardiovascular, respiratory and digestive systems. Nickel also
damages the immune system. Exposure to high concentrations of copper, manganese and zinc
can be toxic and cause pneumonia, pulmonary fibrosis and lethargy. Microscopic particles from
destroyed ammunition casings fall into water and enter the bodies of humans and animals
through the food chain. [Medical reference required]Explosives such as TNT, DNT and RDX
cause chemical contamination and cause acute poisoning and long-term mutagenic effects in

31 | P a g e
humans. TNT is readily absorbed through the skin and mucous membranes. Depending on the
dose, its carcinogenic effects can cause alopecia, anemia, liver failure, cataracts and can change
the composition of the blood. Hexagon poisoning causes nausea and anemia, and long-term
exposure can cause kidney and liver failure. DNT is also toxic. In high doses, it can affect the
cardiovascular system and cause tumors. A BM-21 Grad explosion releases more than 500 grams
of sulfur, which reacts with water and turns into sulfuric acid. War-damaged land was "burned"
into the mountains.

Fighting and bombing have been destroying fertile land for a long time. The fertile chernozem,
which has made Ukraine the world's largest grain exporter, suffers from heavy metal pollution,
chemicals, lubricants and spent fuel. Plants in polluted land absorb these pollutants and transmit
them to humans through the food chain. According to a UN report, by 2022, more than 530
hectares of territory in the Donbas region alone will suffer an ecological catastrophe. Studies
show that black soil is physically damaged by oil tankers and heavy vehicles. The weight causes
the soil to clump and stick together, and the noise disturbs earthworms and other animals that
normally agitate and aerate the soil. Soil microbial communities have been in decline for at least
several years. The wet soils will take at least four years to restore tanker traffic. Additionally, as
vegetative cover decreases, pollutants tend to penetrate more easily and penetrate deeper into the
soil. Environmentalists also report that the sudden cessation of agricultural use on farmland
causes mice and weeds to grow out of control, posing an additional threat to human health.

The Russia-Ukraine conflict has significantly impacted water resources and infrastructure,
particularly rivers and bodies like the Dnieper, Donets, and Irpin. Destroyed vehicles pollute
water with leaking fuel and lubricants, causing fires and disrupting water chemical balance. Dam
destruction leads to soil and water contamination, with the Gulf of Odesa, Danube Delta, and
Azov Sea's biodiversity being yet to be estimated. The Seversky Donets river, a vital water
source for Donbass, has high levels of heavy metals and alkylphenols. The conflict has destroyed
water infrastructure, leaving 4 million people without access to clean drinking water.

Ukraine is home to more than 70,000 species of plants and animals, more than 35% of Europe's
biodiversity. Wars have a direct impact on local populations and can also prevent migration.
Wild animals die from bombings and bombings. Fires, explosions and vibrations scare animals,
force birds to leave their nests and disrupt food chains. When they turn rivers into rivers, large

32 | P a g e
 vehicles pollute the water with fuel that poisons insect larvae. The lower the number, the fewer
frogs there are, meaning there is no food for the cranes. Spring fighting increases damage during
the breeding season for many species. Dolphins are one of the most affected species. Hundreds
of dead animals were found on the coasts of Ukraine, Turkey, Romania and Bulgaria. Scientists
believe the dolphins died from heavy metal poisoning, explosions, acoustic trauma and
disorientation caused by unprecedented noise pollution from military sonar. Mechanical injuries
and burns were found on some corpses. Pets are also affected. Before the war, Ukraine had 3.5
million cattle, 5.7 million pigs and 212 million poultry. Because these farm animals are difficult
to move, their owners often abandon them. Cats and dogs are often returned to their refugee
owners, but many remain in war-torn areas. Sometimes wild animals return to areas abandoned
by humans. For example, in the Donetsk region, populations of wolves, foxes and wild dogs
have increased significantly since 2014. A side effect is that these species often spread rabies. An
increase in the number of registered cases was observed among local residents.

ii. DISPLACEMENT AND REFUGEE CONSIDERATIONS:

According to UNHCR, more than 13 million people, or almost a third of Ukraine's pre-war
population, have become refugees since the country's occupation. Of these, more than 5 million
have become refugees in the country, and more than 8 million refugees live in neighboring
countries. By comparison, there were nearly 1 million refugees from Africa and the Middle East
in 2015, and nearly 4 million during the Yugoslav wars of the 1990s. As of June 2023, at least
8,983 civilians have been killed and 15,442 injured. These are only confirmed victims. The
actual figure may be much higher. They are concentrated in the eastern regions of Donetsk and
Luhansk, known as Donbass, where fighting has been most intense. At the same time, US
officials announced that Russian forces had forcibly relocated 1.6 million Ukrainian refugees to
Russian territory since July 2022. Human rights activists claim that many people were forced to
renounce their Ukrainian citizenship. Forced deportation is a war crime under international law.
Russia describes its actions as a humanitarian evacuation. Moreover, the war caused great
damage to Ukraine's infrastructure. Russian airstrikes have hit medical facilities, homes and
power plants, leaving millions without electricity over the winter. Ukrainian authorities have
accused Russia of breaching the Nova Kakhovka dam, which Russian authorities have denied.
The dam's collapse left hundreds of thousands of people without water, threatened the nearby

33 | P a g e
 Zaporozhye nuclear power plant and prompted mass evacuations. Millions of people in this
country still lack access to heat, clean water and other basic services. Reconstruction costs could
reach $641 billion, according to a December 2022 World Bank estimate. Health authorities are
also concerned about the spread of infectious diseases due to deteriorating health infrastructure.
They warn that infection rates of COVID-19 remain high and only 38% of Ukrainians have been
fully vaccinated against the disease. In the Russian-occupied city of Mariupol, officials imposed
quarantines due to fears of cholera and dysentery, and the United Nations human rights mission
in Ukraine expressed concern about reports of hepatitis A and tuberculosis among Ukrainian
prisoners of war.

B. ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION AND HUMAN RIGHTS

VIOLATIONS

I. CORRELATION BETWEEN CONFLICT ENVIRONMENT, AND

HUMAN RIGHTS:

Russia has been waging a war of aggression in Ukraine since February 24, 2022, mercilessly
attacking civilians and civilian infrastructure. Russia's recent shift in attrition strategy has
implications for civilian survival, Ukraine's future as a nation-state, and for North Atlantic Treaty
Organization (NATO) countries to exercise restraint to protect themselves from Russian threats.
Nuclear tension. The conflict, sparked by Russia's unprovoked invasion, has caused widespread
death and suffering among Ukrainian civilians and soldiers. More than 7.1 million Ukrainians
became refugees in their own country, and about 5.3 million became refugees in other European
countries. The war thus triggered a large-scale humanitarian response, but time was running out
as the Russian offensive escalated. In the 1990s, the medical and scientific communities began to
improve their ability to assess and respond to armed conflict. Recent wars and violent conflicts
have generated important debates about the epidemiology of war-related morbidity and
mortality, civilian suffering, wartime medical capacity, and the consequences and parameters of
sudden population movements. Humanitarian aid and legal norms. Normative debate on human
rights and the international legal dimensions of armed conflict. In Ukraine, as in the early stages
of other wars, it was impossible to collect accurate data on morbidity and mortality due to
inadequate security, inaccurate or incomplete reporting, faulty data systems, refugees, and

34 | P a g e
indirect, remote impact and delayed on health. . By 20 June, the United Nations had confirmed
4,569 deaths and 5,691 non-life-threatening injuries among Ukrainian civilians, mostly due to
the accidental use of high explosive weapons, including heavy artillery shells, rockets and
bombs. However, the actual number of deaths and injuries may be much higher. For example,
according to CNN, Mariupol city officials estimated that at least 22,000 residents had died by
May 25. As in other recent wars, the strategy of attacking medical facilities and personnel now
not only results in immediate death and injury, but also has negative consequences due to limited
medical services. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported 323 attacks on health
facilities in Ukraine between February 24 and June 24, resulting in 76 deaths and 59 injuries. A
significant portion of morbidity and mortality among Ukrainian civilians is undoubtedly due to
diseases caused by forced displacement and damage to water and food systems, sanitation and
sewage, and other civilian infrastructure.4 Therefore, infectious diseases are prone to outbursts.
Overpopulation. These include poor housing conditions, lack of access to clean water and food,
poor sanitation, inadequate health care and failed vaccination campaigns. During war, civilians
are at risk of contracting diarrheal diseases such as cholera and respiratory diseases such as
measles, COVID-19 and tuberculosis. In addition, antimicrobial resistance often increases during
wartime. Another risk is malnutrition, which primarily affects infants and young children, which
can have detrimental effects on physical and cognitive development and increase morbidity later
in life. With a deliberate war strategy, the Russian military disrupted agriculture, damaged food
storage and distribution systems, and restricted access to food. Nutritional side effects may
extend beyond Ukraine. Destruction of agricultural land and grain storage facilities, grain theft
and blocking of food exports contribute to malnutrition in low- and middle-income countries
dependent on Ukraine's grain exports. Limited access to maternal and child care increases
pregnancy complications, maternal mortality, preterm birth and low birth weight, and neonatal
deaths. Limited access to healthcare and essential medicines increases the incidence of non-
communicable diseases and worsens existing conditions. Trauma, separation from family, death
of a loved one, unemployment and loss of education, and forced migration lead to increased rates
of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental and behavioral disorders with
short- and long-term consequences. It is bad to witness. In addition, the mass loss of men, the
mass expulsion of women and their transition to single breadwinner status could have a
significant impact on the age and gender distribution of the Ukrainian population for decades.

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The Russian military is also causing great damage to the environment. Explosions and fires
destroy the integrity of the air by polluting the surrounding air with toxic gases and particles.
National and local authorities in Ukraine, as well as the United Nations and humanitarian
organizations in several countries, are actively providing assistance to Ukrainian citizens and
refugees in the country. These efforts include protecting civilians. We directly provide food,
water, shelter, medical care and other humanitarian assistance. Support Ukrainian government
agencies and non-governmental organizations that care for displaced people and those who wish
to remain in their homes or are forced to do so. But protecting citizens from harm is difficult.
Many civilians chose to stay at home, which became increasingly dangerous as Russian forces
captured and killed civilians and bombed civilian areas. In addition, limited access to food and
clean water has made it difficult for many Ukrainians to stay at home. But it was often
impossible to create safe passage for civilians who wanted to leave, as evidenced by widespread
deadly attacks on civilians in transit, such as the bombing of Kramatorsk train station, which
killed at least 50 people. Protecting civilians who remain in the community has been particularly
difficult. Particularly in eastern and southeastern Ukraine, Russian forces have implemented a
scorched-earth strategy, devastating Mariupol and many other towns and cities with long-range
missiles and bombings. These attacks accelerated the killing of civilians and further damaged
health and education facilities. During that time, the scope of humanitarian assistance expanded
and many countries accepted Ukrainian refugees. But since late April, the conflict has turned into
a war of attrition as Russia seeks to slowly and steadily deplete Ukraine's resources, including
personnel, supply chains, and weapons.5 This strategy now involves increasingly brutal
sacrifices and not only. In most cases, they use powerful weapons that kill people at long range.
Russia has also blocked Ukraine's access to the sea. In these difficult times, it is important to
support local, national and international efforts to increase humanitarian assistance to the
Ukrainian people in need and to collect and preserve evidence of possible Russian war crimes. It
is essential that we seize the moment of danger to think about and address the profound and
existential threat of nuclear weapons. Russia's military invasion of Ukraine is the latest evidence
of the war's devastating impact on health, eclipsing Russia's earlier destruction of Chechnya and
its bombing of medical facilities and nearby towns in Syria. As our nation and people take
important steps to reduce this dangerous situation, we believe that health care professionals have
a responsibility not only to meet the needs of today's victims, but also to help reduce the impact

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 of this devastating, long-term situation and intergenerational War to prevent Human health and
life.

II. CASE STUDIES ILLUSTRATING THE IMPACT ON ECOSYSTEMS

AND COMMUNITIES:

The Russian-Ukrainian war created a tsunami that affected the global economy, geopolitics and
food security. The environmental impact of the humanitarian emergency is ignored. However,
due to the intense fighting, the results are dramatic and lead to ecological disaster. The war is
already affecting regions beyond Ukraine (exploding in Russia and Moldova). The war is still
ongoing, but severe air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions are reported due to the intense
fighting. In addition, hostilities have been intense near the Zaporizhia nuclear power plant
(Europe's largest) and Chernobyl, raising concerns about radioactive leaks. Biodiversity can be
severely affected by severe deforestation and habitat loss, which can affect wildlife.
Sandblasting, ditches and tunnels can cause land degradation and have a negative impact on the
shape of the landscape. This is especially important because Ukraine has some of the most fertile
soils in the world (Cernozium), which influences food production. Water availability and quality
can be affected by the deterioration of infrastructure and the introduction of pollutants into water
resources. Because deforestation reduces the ability of ecosystems to regulate air pollution or
climate, the ecosystem services they provide can be severely affected. Deterioration of soil
quality impedes food production and disrupts landscape aesthetics, cultural heritage and social
cohesion, which has a major impact on the provision of cultural services. After all, the impact on
human health is already enormous. However, it can be higher than this due to high levels of
pollution and poor hygiene. The war is still ongoing and there is great uncertainty about its
outcome. However, we can expect drastic consequences for the entire environment. On February
24, 2022, a war with global consequences began between Ukraine and Russia. The response to
this war was unprecedented, with many countries (Western countries including Japan, Australia
and Canada) imposing many sanctions against Russia, which had a major impact on the country's
economy (for example, lack of foreign reserves) Air quality and greenhouse gas emissions War
activities have a negative impact on air quality and increase atmospheric emissions of toxic
elements (e.g., persistent organic pollutants, polychlorinated biphenyls, polycyclic aromatic
hydrocarbons, dioxins or carbon monoxide), resulting in heavy military vehicles and explosions

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(Solomon et al. ). 2018; Vukmirovic et al., 2009) (Fig. One). There is a positive relationship
between military spending and air pollutant emissions (Solarin et al., 2018). The impacts of
active armed conflict/military action on biodiversity are very serious and well documented (e.g.
Hanson, 2018). This has been linked to large-scale deforestation (e.g. Negret et al., 2019), forest
fires (e.g., Depicker et al., 2020), increased pollution (Solomon et al., 2018), and injury and
wildlife deaths (e.g., there is Koppock and Dzivenka, 2020; Braga-Pereira et al., 2020). Recently,
remote sensing technology has made it possible to determine the extent and damage of war. Soil
and landscape morphology Military activities affect the physical, chemical and biological
properties of soil and can last for centuries. Pereira et al. (2020), Certini et al. (2013) Bromandi
et al. (2020). For example, bombardment with landmines, grenades or bombs or digging trenches
and tunnels destroys the soil horizon and the soil surface. The disturbance caused by the bomb
changes the contours of the soil, removes sediments and Changes in water availability and
quality Wars are known to have detrimental effects on water (e.g. Faour and Fayad, 2014;
Schillinger et al., 2020). During an ongoing war, drinking water infrastructure can be severely
damaged and water availability can decrease rapidly (Zeitoun et al., 2014). In Syria, "after 10
years of war, drinking water has decreased by 40%"63 due to the destruction and lack of
infrastructure. Environmental damage from large-scale warfare is expected to be extreme and
have negative consequences for the regulation, supply and delivery of cultural ecosystem
services (Figure 1). One). Studies on the impact of war on ecosystem services have shown severe
damage due to biodiversity loss and environmental degradation (Francis and Krishnamurthy,
2014; Grima and Singh, 2019; Landholm et al., 2019; Aung, 2021). There is little information
and development is needed. Meanwhile, the conflict continues. There is great uncertainty and
risk in predicting the magnitude of the impact. However, with the current war, its intensity can
be very high. From an ecological point of view, field information indicates that the results will be
important. Significant environmental degradation (eg air, soil and water pollution) and loss of
ecosystems and biodiversity are expected to have a significant impact. The Ukraine-Russia
conflict is turning into a dramatic conflict with as yet unknown consequences that will affect the
entire environment. This is a humanitarian disaster. Environmental damage was also observed in
Russia and Moldova, suggesting that the environmental impact may extend to other countries.
Furthermore, as the war continues, the environmental impacts will continue to be extreme and
the affected areas will likely increase (eg the Black Sea).

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V. INNOVATIVE APPROACHES TO ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
ASSESSMENTS (EIA) IN CONFLICT ZONES

The Russia-Ukraine conflict presents unique challenges for Environmental Impact Assessments
(EIAs) due of the uncertain circumstances. Innovative strategies include involving the
community, using block chain technology for transparency, evaluating risk using predictive
modeling, and collaborating with international organizations, non-governmental organizations,
and local authorities to monitor environmental changes through satellite and remote sensing
technology. A "conflict-sensitive" approach consists of comprehending the social and political
environment, tailoring mitigation techniques to specific issues, and incorporating climate
resilience into the EIA framework. These strategies help both immediate fixes and long-term
environmental sustainability in conflict situations.

A.TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS

In a perfect world, technology might address the root causes of animosity and contribute to a
peaceful resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. A more efficient and transparent resolution
may be achieved through the use of digital diplomacy platforms, blockchain technology, satellite
technology for border area monitoring, cybersecurity cooperation, artificial intelligence (AI) for
conflict prediction, virtual reality for conflict resolution training, international space
collaboration, open-source intelligence (OSINT), social media monitoring and mediation, and
crisis communication platforms.Platforms for digital diplomacy have the potential to record
agreements, provide private discussions, and promote accountability among interested parties.
While satellite technology helps monitor border areas, prevent conflicts, and promote openness,
blockchain technology can improve the transparency and trustworthiness of agreements.
Collaboration in cybersecurity can stop tension-raising cyberattacks and lessen the chance that
misleading information will proliferate.

conclusion, while technology can support diplomatic efforts, a holistic plan incorporating social,
political, and economic measures is necessary for resolving complex geopolitical disputes.

1.REMOTE SENSING AND SATELLITE IMAGERY

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The use of remote sensing and satellite photography has greatly aided in tracking and
comprehending the Russia-Ukraine conflict. These resources offer insightful data on the
geopolitical landscape, assisting international observers, governments, and humanitarian
organizations in making defensible decisions. Monitoring the border between Russia and
Ukraine with satellite photos offers a high vantage point for spotting changes in troop
movements, infrastructure, and boundary demarcations. Diplomatic conversations are informed
and supported by this information.

Planning for long-term restoration and humanitarian endeavors, as well as assessing the effects
of the conflict on the environment, are made possible by remote sensing. In addition, satellites
can be used to track military operations, ensuring that agreements are followed, preparing
humanitarian relief efforts, and determining the degree of damage to vital infrastructure and
facilities.In order to help humanitarian organizations allocate resources and satisfy the needs of
impacted people, satellite data is particularly useful in predicting displacement and refugee
movements. Satellite photography is also used to record and confirm evidence of war crimes,
which helps with investigations and holds people accountable.

Satellite photography provides decision-makers with real-time information, allowing them to act
quickly to prevent situations from getting worse or to deal with humanitarian emergencies.
Satellite photography also raises public awareness and advocacy, which encourages international
cooperation and support for diplomatic solutions. In general, remote sensing and satellite
photography are essential for comprehending and resolving complex geopolitical situations,
supporting humanitarian efforts and measures of responsibility.

2. GIS MAPPING FOR ASSESSING ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGES

GIS mapping gives many environmental metrics a spatial context, making it an effective tool for
assessing environmental changes. Understanding, monitoring, and controlling environmental
changes is made easier by it, especially when there are conflicts like the one involving Russia
and Ukraine. Monitoring changes in land use, deforestation, urbanization, and other land cover
dynamics is made possible by GIS mapping, which enables the analysis of land cover changes
over time. It also aids in determining regions that need ecosystem restoration or conservation
efforts by evaluating the effects of conflict or other stressors on ecosystems.

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Because GIS mapping provides a visual representation of changes in water quality, water levels,
and the effects of conflict on water supplies, it is an essential tool for monitoring water resources,
such as rivers, lakes, and aquifers. In order to enable focused interventions for soil conservation
and rehabilitation, it also aids in evaluating the quality of the soil and patterns of degradation.

The detection and evaluation of environmental risks brought on by war, such as pollution,
deforestation, or the discharge of hazardous materials, are made easier by GIS mapping. The
creation of risk maps that direct disaster response and preparedness actions is aided by this
spatial analysis. Visualizing air pollution patterns is made possible by integrating air quality data
into GIS platforms. This is especially important in conflict areas where air quality can be
impacted by military operations or activities like burning rubbish..

GIS mapping aids in the identification of vital environmental infrastructure, including industrial
sites, water treatment plants, and power plants. It also aids in the assessment of potential
environmental threats and the creation of strategies to safeguard this infrastructure. In order to
direct conservation efforts, it also facilitates the assessment of changes in wildlife habitats
brought on by conflict or other environmental disruptions.

In order to monitor deforestation and forest fires and respond in real time to lessen their effects
on local residents, wildlife, and ecosystems, GIS mapping is essential. Advocacy and public
awareness are two more effective strategies for increasing public understanding of environmental
changes. All things considered, GIS mapping offers a spatial framework for thoroughly
evaluating environmental changes, improving our comprehension of the intricate relationships
that exist between the environment and different variables.

B. COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT AND LOCAL KNOWLEDGE

Involvement in the community and local knowledge are essential for comprehending and
resolving the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. They offer a thorough understanding of the
dynamics of the conflict, early warning systems, cultural sensitivity, planning for humanitarian
responses, peacekeeping and conflict resolution, planning for sustainable development,
safeguarding civilian populations, protecting cultural heritage, fostering economic recovery and
livelihoods, fostering community resilience, and disseminating and communicating information.

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Local communities are in a unique position to provide a thorough grasp of the issue because they
have direct experience of the dynamics, historical background, and subtleties of the conflict.
They can aid in the creation of efficient early warning systems, guaranteeing the implementation
of preventative measures and the mitigation of the conflict's effects. Crafting courteous and well-
received interventions also requires cultural sensitivity and contextual understanding.Planning
for humanitarian responses with local communities increases the efficacy of relief operations by
identifying groups at risk, cultural preferences, and practical difficulties. They also aid in the
planning of sustainable development by guaranteeing that development tactics are successful and
suitable for the local culture.

In times of war, it is crucial to protect the rich history and character of afflicted regions by
involving local communities in the preservation of cultural sites and activities.

In conclusion, a comprehensive strategy for resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict must include
both local expertise and community involvement. To address the issues raised by the conflict in a
more complex, context-specific, and community-driven manner, cooperation with local
stakeholders is crucial.

1. EMPOWERING LOCAL COMMUNITIES IN DATA COLLECTION

In the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, community-driven solutions, resilience, and

transparency are all dependent on local people being empowered to participate in data collecting.
It is possible to get a more complex and situation-specific understanding of the issue by
incorporating locals in the data collection process. Contextual awareness, early warning and
quick response, mapping local resources and vulnerabilities, tracking environmental changes,
assessing humanitarian needs, safeguarding cultural heritage, keeping an eye on community
health, evaluating the economic impact, empowerment and ownership, and filling in gaps in
official data are all included in this.

By ensuring that the data is firmly based on the local context, contextual knowledge guarantees
that the reality on the ground is more accurately represented. Faster reaction times and more
successful mitigation techniques are made possible by early warning systems. A better awareness
of local assets and vulnerabilities is made possible by mapping potential dangers, locations that
need special attention during conflict-related events, and local assets.

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Assessing humanitarian needs makes it possible to identify vulnerable groups more precisely,
and protecting the region's rich cultural legacy aids in its preservation. The identification and
preservation of cultural heritage places is aided by community health monitoring, and the effects
of the conflict on employment, industry, and means of subsistence are evaluated by economic
impact assessments. Including local communities in the process of gathering data enhances their
ability to participate in decision-making and builds community resilienceA more inclusive and
successful solution to the difficulties presented by the Russia-Ukraine conflict can be achieved
by cooperative efforts between locals, NGOs, and international organizations.

2.INTEGRATING TRADITIONAL ECOLOGICAL KNOWLEDGE (TEK)

The incorporation of Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) into conflict response tactics
between Russia and Ukraine has the potential to enhance comprehension of environmental
impacts, facilitate sustainable solutions, and foster resilience in local communities. Indigenous
and local communities possess knowledge known as TEK, which offers insights into resource
management, ecosystems, and adaptation techniques. It can be applied to the preservation of
biodiversity, community-based conservation, sustainable resource management, medicinal plant
knowledge, climate variability adaptation, early warning systems for the environment,
sustainable livelihoods, water resource management, cultural landscape preservation, and
disaster resilience.

In conflict-affected areas, biodiversity conservation entails protecting rare species of plants and
animals, but sustainable resource management incorporates conventional farming, fishing, and
forestry practices. By improving early warning capabilities, environmental monitoring systems
enable prompt responses to changes such as soil degradation or water contamination. The
conflict's effects on water contamination and shortage can also be addressed with the help of
TEK.

TEK can support the identification and maintenance of medicinal plant use in healthcare
planning, improving the health and wellbeing of the population. Moreover, TEK can direct
approaches to water contamination and scarcity. Along with encouraging community-based
conservation and strengthening catastrophe resilience, it can aid in the preservation of
historically significant locations and landscapes.Integrating TEK can provide inclusive,

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culturally sensitive, and effective environmental solutions by bridging the knowledge gap
between traditional and modern knowledge systems. In the wake of the conflict, cooperative
efforts between scientific institutions, decision-makers, and holders of traditional knowledge can
develop a more robust and sustainable route forward.

VI. BEST PRACTICES AND CASE STUDIES

A. SUCCESSFUL IMPLEMENTATION OF EIA IN CONFLICT ZONES
1. INTERNATIONAL EXAMPLES
International examples are follows:

Case example 1

Environmental Sustainability in Poverty Reduction Strategies: Uganda and Rwanda's SEA

Poverty Reduction Strategy Papers Background information and goals Initiatives to include
environmental and sustainability considerations into PRS papers throughout the process of
developing poverty reduction strategies in Rwanda and Uganda have received assistance from a
number of bilateral donor agencies. These efforts started while the PRS papers were nearing
completion in draft form. This was not a perfect scenario, but it does show the challenges
encountered while conducting SEAs in real-world settings. In this situation, the first task was to
review the PRS papers and then make amendments to adequately discuss the potential and risks
related to the environment. The best procedures for environmental impact assessments that were
disregarded. The expansion of the agricultural sector was a major emphasis of both draft PRSPs,
but in the process, a number of significant concerns with repercussions for the environment were
missed. Method and results ● Close cooperation with national environment agencies was
accomplished.● Strong relationships were forged with the PRSP drafting teams.● Interaction
with sectoral ministries was formed. ● Provision was made in parallel for environmental
management capacity-building. ● Numerous follow-up actions were committed to. Interaction
with supporters in both nations' and benefactors held significance. This is especially crucial for
ministries, which are typically viewed as less powerful branches of government and where there
may be a general lack of administrative and political will. The Rwandan example amply
illustrated the advantages of true ownership by national champions. The Ugandan case study also
illustrated the necessity and advantages of taking additional steps to ensure sustainability when

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implementing the PRSP. Among them were the following pursuits: Incorporating environmental
considerations into national budgeting procedures. ● The PRS Credit's inclusion of poverty and
environmental standards. Integration of the environment with government lead agencies.
Examine environmental governance at the national level. ● Technical support: strategically
assigning environmental advisors to ministries and agencies. ● Tracking environmental and
poverty indicators in conjunction with the government. ● Drafting policies related to poverty
and environmental planning for local government agencies and other important branches.

Case example 2

Ghana's Poverty Reduction Strategy processes—the SEA of Poverty Reduction Process—

incorporate environmental factors Background information and goals In February 2002, Ghana
released its Poverty Reduction Strategy (GPRS), which named environmental degradation as one
of the factors contributing to poverty. Overall though, the environment was not viewed as a
cross-cutting concern by the GPRS; rather, it was handled as a sectoral or "add on" subject. This
caused a lot of issues because a lot of the policies depended on using the abundant natural
resources in the nation, whose future yield was in jeopardy due to the policies' own
implementation's severe negative environmental effects. The government of Ghana made the
decision to conduct a SEA in order to integrate environmental considerations in a revamped
GPRS. In order to guarantee that effective environmental management contributed to pro-poor
sustainable growth and poverty reduction in Ghana, the SEA set out to evaluate the
environmental risks and opportunities represented by the policies covered by the GPRS and to
identify appropriate management/mitigation measures. Methods The Netherlands Embassy in
Accra collaborated with the National Development Planning Commission and Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) to lead the SEA, which was carried out with technical assistance from
the Netherlands Commission for EIA and the UK Department of Foreign Investment (DFID).The
full SEA commenced in May 2003 and comprised two distinct elements: a top-down assessment
of the impact of the policies contributed by 23 ministries to the GPRS and a bottom-up
exploration of the issues raised by implementation of policies at district and regional levels. The
entire SEA got underway in May 2003 and was divided into two main parts: a top-down
evaluation of the effects of the policies that 23 ministries had contributed to the GPRS and a
bottom-up investigation of the problems brought up by the district and regional levels of policy

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implementation. The SEA's main objectives were to: ● Evaluate how much the five
interconnected GPRS themes—macroeconomics, production and gainful employment, human
resource development, the vulnerable and excluded, and governance—recognize and address
environmental opportunities and risks; ● Provide a thorough analysis and discussion of each
policy, with recommendations for its addition, revision, or replacement. Analyzing the viability
of district level plans, which serve as the main means of putting the GPRS into practice. Results
Every major ministry received training on SEA procedures and guidance on integrating
environmental considerations into policy-making. Revisions to planning guidelines to
incorporate environmental considerations in sector and district level planning were among the
benefits of SEA, along with improvements to development policy and district level plans. As part
of the GPRS process, national planning guidelines are now officially needed for budgeting and
policy formulation. A greater emphasis is now placed on the role of SEA in enhancing the
processes through which policies themselves are translated into budgets, programs, and activities
as a result of the active participation of stakeholders (including politicians, the finance sector,
and NGOs) and use of SEA at all levels of decision makingDevelopment goals were harmonized
as a result, and they were also in line with other national and regional plans as well as the MDGs.
The attitudes of planning and budgeting officials were also altered by SEA, who started looking
for win-win situations when integrating environments in PPPs. The SEA team is currently
providing direct inputs for the 2006–09 GPRS.

Case example 3

Tanzania's SEA credit for poverty reduction (budget support) Background information and goals
Tanzania created the National Strategy for Growth and Reduction of Poverty (NSGRP) in 2004
as its second attempt at reducing poverty. It came about as a result of a protracted consultation
process that involved numerous stakeholders all the way down to the village level and built upon
the findings of the national poverty monitoring system. The NSGRP placed a strong emphasis on
results and gave growth and governance more consideration. Its goal was to include important
intersecting issues—such as the environment—into the strategy from the outset rather than as an
afterthought. Tanzania has profited from increased direct budget support, thanks to a poverty
reduction strategy credit (PRSC) from the World Bank. Tanzania conducted a second PRSC
(PRSC) SEA in 2004Tanzania conducted a SEA of the second PRSC (PRSC 2) in order to

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evaluate the overall socioeconomic and environmental effects of PPPs backed by the PRSC 2,
and to recommend further capacity building initiatives along with suitable monitoring and
mitigation strategies. The first task was deciding which PPPs the SEA should concentrate on
because, in theory, PRSC funding could be utilized to assist with the execution of any
government PPP. It was determined to focus on initiatives designated as "triggers" for PRSC
funding releases. The Performance Action Framework, which outlines important initiatives
decided upon by the government, the World Bank, and other development partners offering
budget support, went into detail about these: The reform of the Crop Boards, the creation of a
strategic plan to operationalize the implementation of the Land Act and Village Land Act, the
introduction of a Road Act to support the upkeep and rehabilitation of district roads, and the
establishment of a new business licensing system were all agreed to be included in the SEA. The
ability to manage and assess the environment would also be taken into account by the SEA.
Results The study determined possible effects and ways to lessen the negative environmental
effects of the reforms. Tanzania has numerous public-private partnerships (PPPs) that have the
potential to mitigate identified environmental impacts; however, the primary barrier is the lack of
capacity to carry out, enforce, and oversee plans and programs.

2. REGIONAL CASE STUDY

Environmental impact assessment’s best practices & regional cases are follows:

Case example 1

Regional environmental assessment of Argentina flood protection Background and objectives A

Regional Environment Assessment (REA) was undertaken for an investment programme to
protect communities occupying the flood plains of the Paraguay, Parana and Uruguay rivers in
northern Argentina. This region had suffered enormous losses from periodic flooding, but this
natural process also sustains ecological systems and many forms of productive activities. A
“living with floods” strategy was therefore developed with proposed flood defence construction
works. Non-structural measures were also introduced, including strengthening institutional
capacity and co-ordination to deal with periodic flooding, and upgrading flood warning systems
and technical assistance support. Approach The REA was initiated at an early stage of the
decision-making process and included: ● Description of the interaction of hydro-ecological and
socio-economic systems of the region. ● Screening of potential investments to select sub-

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projects with clear economic, social and environmental benefits. ● Analysis of alternatives for
each site using criteria of least possible interference with natural flooding patterns. ● Analysis of
the cumulative effects of all flood protection projects. ● Public consultation aimed at improving
the design of all sub-projects. ● Design changes to take into account the results of the REA and
public consultations. ● Determination of mitigation and follow-up measures. ● Identification of
institutional weaknesses in dealing with the flood problem. ● Recommendation for solving
problems identified from regional action plans. Results The study showed that many ecosystems
and human activities are highly dependent on regular flooding. This had a direct impact on the
design of the project. The investment selection criteria were changed so that flooding would
continue, but would not threaten people's well-being and economic infrastructure. The study also
documented the extent to which human activities threatened the tributary wetlands, gallery
forests and aquatic ecosystems of the three rivers. It found that the most disruptive activities
were road construction, followed by poorly planned urban sprawl and sewage from the
meatpacking industry. REA helped design four key project components to improve the
environmental and economic benefits of the project: ● Strengthening of EA procedures in key
institutions in the seven provinces. ● Technical assistance for managing the urban environment.
● Environmental education and awareness programs in communities that benefit from
conservation efforts. ● Supporting conservation and management initiatives for wetlands and
other ecosystems. Perhaps the most important result of the regional environmental impact
assessment was its direct contribution to the review of all possible investments in the project.
This helped to reduce the number of possible sub-projects from 150 to 51, all with clear
economic, social and environmental rationales. Once these subprojects were selected, the REA
team prepared a project-specific EA for each. After their completion, the REA team returned to
examine the likely cumulative impacts of all 51 subprojects to ensure that such impacts were
minimized.

Case example 2

Great Western Development Strategy MARO, China Background and Objectives Several regions
of eastern and central China have experienced rapid economic development in the last decade,
but the western regions of China are still relatively poor and underdeveloped. In response, the
Chinese government's "Great Western Development" (GWD) strategy provides a strategic

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framework that integrates more than 20 national policies and several major construction projects.
The GWD Strategy (GWD SEA) KSH was commissioned by the State Environmental
Protection Agency (SEPA). The aim was to study environmental impacts and risks and identify
possible changes in certain parts of the strategy. Approach KSH applied a relatively simple
methodology, which included a coordinated analysis of the possible effects related to the
implementation of the GWD strategy. The analysis focused on a wide range of environmental
media, and the project team used the direct and indirect effects of the strategy in expert panels.
They are also exploring alternative mitigation options. Industry-specific studies raised the level
of analysis and included forecasts of how industries will develop in the future. The report briefly
discussed increasing public participation and stakeholder dialogue, but made no reference to
formal mechanisms for public participation in the SEA process. It is therefore unclear to what
extent the EIA report addresses the specific issues highlighted by some key stakeholders. Results
The interim report contains a complex matrix of direct and indirect effects resulting from the
actions planned under the GWD. However, a simple message emerges from the analysis: the
environmental situation in China's western provinces is already dire, and GWD officials are
working to exacerbate some major environmental risks. Each chapter of the interim report
discusses different mitigation measures that authorities could implement to alleviate these
pressures. Quantifying the effectiveness of these measures requires further work. Undoubtedly,
the ultimate test of the effectiveness of GWD SEA research is its ability to influence the public
and institutions involved in the development, implementation and monitoring of the GWD
strategy. At this stage, it is difficult to say whether the EIA process has increased awareness and
understanding of the environmental impacts associated with the GWD proposals. The breadth
and scope of the GWD strategy made it difficult to isolate individual proposals for detailed
examination. Work on the draft report must continue if it is to effectively articulate the rationale
for focusing on environmental threats and opportunities.

B. LEARNING FROM FAILURES

1. IDENTIFYING PITFALLS IN EIA PROCESSES
The subject of this study is the identification of the practice and problematic issues of the
implementation of the environmental impact assessment procedure (EIA) in the mining industry.
EIA is the identification of possible negative environmental effects of economic activity and

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measures to minimize these effects already in the project planning phase, which is effectively
implemented worldwide. In Ukraine, the EIA procedure was introduced at the end of 2017,
mainly for the implementation of EU environmental legislation in accordance with the
Association Agreement between Ukraine and the EU. According to the new EIA legislation, this
procedure is carried out for projects that have a significant environmental impact in various
fields, including the mining industry. The purpose of the study is to analyze the practice of
implementing the Law on Environmental Impact Assessment of Ukraine in the mining industry
and to develop recommendations for solving problems arising during this procedure at all stages.
Main results of the study: According to Ukrainian domestic legislation and international
agreements, the company must carry out an EIA already when planning activities that may have
a significant impact on the environment, before deciding on the implementation of the planned
activity (permit, operating permit, etc.). Based on the results of the EIA, the authorized state
authority prepares an EIA conclusion, which presents the environmental conditions that the
company must meet during the implementation of the planned activities. In the mining industry,
international and European legislation stipulates that an EIA is required for hydrocarbon and
other mineral production projects, including quarries. In Ukraine, EIA is mandatory for
extraction projects, including oil and gas extraction and extraction, as well as deep drilling
(including geothermal drilling). In addition, as a rule, mining companies must carry out an
environmental impact assessment for related activities such as reconstruction of facilities, waste
management, infrastructure construction, etc. According to the analysis of the EIA legislative
requirements and their implementation practice so far, the EIA procedure consists of six stages,
which can generally be completed in about 6 months (until the EIA decision is received). At the
same time, some problematic aspects were identified in the implementation of the EIA, the
solution of which will simplify the procedure and increase its effectiveness. The report revealed
five main problems that companies encountered when applying for the EIA procedure. Some of
them are related to the specifics of the mining industry, and some are simply deficiencies in the
implementation of the Environmental Impact Law of Ukraine in general. Specific problems of
the mining industry appear in Ukraine's EIA process:  a significant number of EIA procedures
for the mining company and  non-compliance with international legislation on environmental
impact assessment. General shortcomings of EIA implementation in Ukraine identified in the
study:  lack of standardized approaches to the EIA report and EIA conclusion;  there are no

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requirements for the persons/companies that prepare the EIA report;  "fictitious" public
discussions in the EIA procedure. The research analyzes the world's best practices in the
implementation of EIA and discovers the optimal approaches to the selected questions. The
study offers some recommendations for the implementation of the proposed approaches to ensure
the speed, efficiency and transparency of the EIA procedure in Ukraine, in particular: On behalf
of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources:  develop EIA criteria for oil and gas
production volumes (together with the Ministry of Energy and other relevant authorities) and
evaluation criteria for reviewing/rejecting public proposals;  develop methodological
documents for the preparation of conclusions and reports of EIA of mining industry (together
with the Ministry of Energy and other relevant authorities);  gives recommendations to
organizers, companies and civil society to organize EIA discussions;  establish a voluntary
certification of persons/companies that prepare EIA reports with the support of the Ministry of
Education and international donors (compulsory certification could be introduced in the next
stage, in the case of voluntariness, companies will implement it and the government will improve
the quality). of EIA reports);  sorting of data on the website of the unified register of EIA and
other resources managed by the ministry. Subjects of the legislative initiative:  prepare and
present a draft law to the Verkhovna Rada to ensure compliance of EIA procedures with
international and EU legislation. In particular, consider the possibility of conducting an EIA
council (in the period after the announcement of the tender winner, but before the conclusion of
the PSA contract). To other authorities (together with the Ministry of Environment and Natural
Resources):  as one stage of the EIA, to consult companies in various fields of environmental
protection;  ensures access to the open data necessary for the preparation of the EIA report,
e.g. publish relevant information about the resources on its website, which would enable more
relevant information to be used in the preparation of EIA reports and conclusions;  optimize
permit procedures and EIA by creating a "single window" (it is possible to send documents at the
same time to one institution to obtain a special land use permit, other permits and EIA), if
necessary - initiate the necessary changes in legislation. For mining companies:  create
appropriate organizational and technical conditions for public discussions of the EIA. To the
public (along with other stakeholders):  At the local level, we continue to inform various
interest groups about the opportunities for the public to participate in the EIA process. In
European practice, EIA is an effective tool for planning economic activity and an important part

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of ensuring sustainability in the regions affected by that activity. The common task of the state
and civil society is to find a balance between environmental protection, commercial interests
and the provision of strategically important resources. This study is made possible through the
United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The content is the sole
responsibility of DiXi Group and does not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the US
government.

2. LESSONS FROM UNSUCCESSFUL ATTEMPTS

The first anniversary of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict is an appropriate occasion to reflect on
the changing nature of warfare in the 21st century. War in Europe shows that while the basic
nature of war does not change, war as a dynamic interaction of adversaries is always evolving.
This is because "war" in its essential state remains irrational and uncontrollable, and while the
laws of battle are immutable, combatants locked in conflict are constantly seeking new ways to
subdue and destroy their opponent. Even if one side does not defeat the other, in order to survive,
it must devise ways to force the opponent into a sudden war of attrition.

BATTLEFIELD LESSONS
From an analytical perspective, two different lessons can be learned from the Russian-
Ukrainian conflict. One set of lessons deals with battlefield tactics, the other with strategic
warfare. We begin with lessons learned on the battlefield because they better reveal the
changing nature of modern warfare. The first observation for military observers is that fixed
assets are no longer able to control the battlefront as before. The war in Ukraine has shown that
large warships such as tanks, battleships and destroyers are more vulnerable than ever to cheap
defense systems. Consider it. Ukrainian forces used US Stinger and Javelin missiles to attack
Russian forces with devastating effect; The Russian flagship Moscow was sunk by just two
Neptunus cruise missile hits. The war in Ukraine has shown that large combat platforms such
as tanks, battleships and fighter jets are more vulnerable than ever to cheap defense systems.
What matters is that old fashioned battle armor is dying out. Indeed, the vast majority of
Russian tanks that attacked at the beginning of the war were destroyed by cheap Ukrainian
shoulder-fired missiles and drones. In addition to the obvious lack of armor and mobility, the
Russian tank offensive was also weakened by the fact that the command did not use tanks
along with artillery, air support, reconnaissance and artillery in combined arms operations.
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Another tactical lesson of the war is that, while artillery is still an important part of warfare, it
is only more lethal when precision-guided munitions are used in well-planned attacks. It is
instructive that the Russian artillery bombardment did not penetrate the Ukrainian defenses.
Even when command and control centers or logistics facilities were hit, the damage was
minimal and the facilities were quickly restored. By contrast, NATO's High Mobility Artillery
Missile System, or HIMARS, which fires GPS-guided projectiles up to 50 miles away, has
repeatedly destroyed Russian munitions dumps, command posts and key bridges. Ukraine was
able to carry out the attacks from a safe distance, avoiding Russian counterfire. A third lesson
from the war in Ukraine is that drone warfare is a potential game changer capable of
permanently altering the dynamics of the battlefield. Large drones such as Turkey's Bayraktar
have been very effective in striking large targets in Ukraine, while smaller aircraft have also
played an important role in espionage, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. On several
occasions, small Ukrainian drones infiltrated Russian combat formations, attacking long
convoys, cutting supply lines and targeting ammunition dumps. The war also showed that air
power in an unprotected military environment is extremely vulnerable. During the nearly year-
long war, Russia did not gain air superiority or control the skies over Ukraine. In contrast, the
much smaller Ukrainian air force survived and even attacked effective enemy positions.
Large drones such as Turkey's Bayraktar have been very effective in hitting large targets in
Ukraine, while smaller aircraft have also played an important role in espionage, surveillance
and reconnaissance missions. The impact of modern technology on the war in Ukraine is even
more obvious. The ability to see and locate enemy positions using satellite imagery effectively
made the war in Ukraine transparent. Data from both expensive high-performance
geostationary military satellites and inexpensive commercial satellites and drones have greatly
improved targeting. The combination of space-based capabilities and extensive open-source
information made it difficult for the military to move undetected. The fact that Russia's
offensive has been and will continue to be watched closely from its inception says something
about the changing nature of modern wars. Strategy lessons There are also strategic lessons
from the conflict. The first is that despite geopolitical and operational imperatives, war must
never be rushed. President Putin's assumptions about Russian power and anti-Western fervor
led him to launch an apparently impulsive attack on Ukraine. The Russian president's fear was
undoubtedly fueled by NATO's expansionist policy, but there was never a sense that military

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action was thoroughly thought through. The importance of adaptability in modern warfare is
another important lesson. Combatants strive to act quickly and decisively, but uncertainty is a
constant feature of military operations. The fighter must adapt to changing circumstances, such
as new techniques, new tactics, and new ways of using old military resources to outmaneuver
and defeat the enemy. Ukraine demonstrated its adaptability in the October 2022 attack on the
Russian Black Sea Fleet in Sevastopol, when Ukrainian forces used unmanned surface vessels
(USVs) as suicide drones to target naval combatants. The Russian president's fear was
undoubtedly fueled by NATO's expansionist policy, but there was never a sense that military
action was thoroughly thought through. A third strategic lesson is that in today's world the
"short war" is a comforting myth. The war in Ukraine is an instructive example of how any
military effort that begins with one side anticipating the imminent collapse of the other is
doomed to falter. Russia's overconfidence was the main reason why the Russian army did not
achieve its military objectives. The Kremlin's excessive optimism to ensure a favorable
outcome in Ukraine led to a series of mistakes. Russian troops entered Ukraine unprepared
based on outdated maps and inaccurate intelligence. Their first attacks were launched
randomly, Ukrainian air defenses were intact and ready to counterattack. Other signs of a lack
of planning were also evident. The Russian army was misinformed about the war and many
Russian soldiers did not know why they were fighting. Some were careless enough to call
home on their cell phones, revealing their whereabouts. This allowed the Ukrainian military to
track them down and kill them in large numbers. Despite this, Russia refused to adapt or
innovate; despite the losses on the battlefield, the country's war machine remained heavy. The
Russian army rushed into eastern Ukraine only in the second half of 2022, but also made the
mistake of capturing more territory than it could defend. The defense of large areas of land was
left to untrained and poorly equipped fighters. Many were soldiers with outdated weapons and
little professional combat experience. To make matters worse, civilian areas of Ukraine were
regularly bombed, further hardening Ukraine's resolve. The involvement of illegals is not alien
to the Russian war machine, but highlights the hybridity of modern warfare. However, from an
awareness perspective, it is noteworthy that the presence of non-state actors on the battlefield
and the use of non-linear war tactics add complexity and deepen the fog of war on the
battlefield. The Ukrainians stayed one step ahead, improving their logistics and reserves and
successfully attacked the Russian forces. Another important lesson is that long-term victory in

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modern warfare depends on following logistical lines and rules. In battles, logistics are critical,
especially for the occupying power. In the months of stalemate in western Ukraine, the
Russians learned their lesson. The Russian military curbed its unrealistic ambitions by
concentrating combat operations and concentrating resources in eastern Ukraine, where success
was more likely. Despite this, the Ukrainians stayed one step ahead, improving their logistics
and reserves, and successfully attacked the Russian forces. Importantly, Kiev continues to
depend on European allies and the United States to support military operations.

A CAUTIONARY TALE
A final strategic lesson is that since war is about power and its effective application, victory and
defeat depend on the nature of power, which is constantly changing. When two countries
compete in today's interdependent world, the country with the stronger relationship has an
inherent advantage, even in the face of an imbalance of capabilities. Ukraine's ability to resist
the Russian offensive is proof that with the support of capable allies, the power deficit of unequal
combatants can somehow be leveled. Modern wars in particular have an excessive element of
coercion and coercion - where one side forces the other to give up its political goals and submit
to its demands. In such a war, a minimalist strategy is often better than a maximalist approach,
which tends to create more resistance from the adversary. In this sense, the Ukraine conflict is a
cautionary tale and a sobering study for military observers and strategic thinkers alike.

VII POLICY RECOMMENDATION FOR EFFECTIVE ENVIRONMENT

IMPACT ASSESSMENT IN CONFLICT ZONES

Implementing effective environmental impact assessments in conflict zones requires a

multifaceted approach. This process can only be ensured by following three steps.

A. STRENGTHENING INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

To strengthen the International cooperation it’s important to incorporate environmental

considerations into conflict prevention strategies to identify potential issues before they escalate.
These can be achieved by

1.ocal Engagement: Involving local communities in the assessment process to gather indigenous
knowledge and ensure their concerns are addressed.

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2. Capacity Building: Building local capacity for conducting as monitoring, and enforcement to
ensure sustainability beyond external interventions.

3. Security Measures: Implementing measures to protect environmental assessors, ensuring their

safety during conflict situations.

4. Adaptive Management: Developing assessment frameworks that can adapt to evolving

conflict situations and incorporate feedback from ongoing monitoring.

This process can also be ensured by data transparency ,conflict-sensitive approach, Legal
Framework and by Post-Conflict Rehabilitation. By addressing these aspects, international
cooperation through these measures, the global community can work together to address
environmental challenges in conflict zones more effectively.

B. EMPOWERING LOCAL COMMUNITIES:

Involving communities in the environmental impact assessment (EIA) process is crucial for
ensuring a comprehensive understanding of local concerns and values. The strategies to facilitate
community engagement in EIAs are as follows

1. By initiating communication with communities early in the planning process, providing clear
and transparent information about the proposed project and the upcoming environmental
assessment.

2. Organizing public consultations, meetings, and workshops to gather input from community
members and it has to be ensured that these sessions are accessible, consider local languages, and
accommodate various participation levels.

3. Appointing or inviting community representatives to participate in the assessment process,

allowing them to voice concerns, ask questions, and contribute local knowledge.

4. By Providing training and information to community members to enhance their understanding

of the EIA process, empowering them to actively participate and contribute meaningfully.

5. Acknowledging and incorporating indigenous knowledge and traditional ecological practices

into the assessment, respecting the unique insights that local communities can offer.

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Thus, by making project-related information, and by providing establish mechanisms for
continuous feedback, allowing community members to express concerns, providing additional
information, EIAs can benefit from the wealth of local knowledge, address community concerns,
and foster a sense of ownership and cooperation in environmental decision-making processes.

C. ENHANCING NATIONAL LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORKS:

To address gaps in environmental impact assessment (EIA) frameworks in conflict zones,

enhancing national legislative frameworks and legal reforms is essential. Consider the following
strategies:

1. By developing and implementing legislation specifically tailored to address environmental

impact assessments in conflict zones. This legislation should account for the unique challenges
and dynamics of such environments.

2. Mandating EIAs for all projects in conflict zones, regardless of size.

3. By embedding environmental considerations into the early stages of project planning by

requiring pre-project EIAs. This helps identify potential issues before they escalate and ensures
that environmental factors are integral to decision-making.

4. It is very important to enshrine provisions for meaningful public participation in the EIA
process within the legal framework. This includes involving local communities, indigenous
groups, and other stakeholders in decision-making processes.

5. Cross-Border Cooperation is also necessary to Integrate provisions that encourage cross-

border cooperation in EIAs for projects with trans boundary impacts. This is crucial in conflict
zones where environmental issues often transcend national borders.

By implementing these legal reforms, nations can strengthen their ability to conduct effective
EIAs in conflict zones, promoting environmental sustainability and minimizing negative impacts
on communities and ecosystem

VIII. THE ROLES OF THE NON-GOVERNMENTAL

ORGANIZATION(NGOs) AND INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES.

A. ASSESSING THE CONTRIBUTION OF NGOs

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The contribution of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in the Russia-Ukraine conflict,
particularly concerning environmental issues, has been impactful in various ways:

1. Environmental Impact Assessment:

NGOs have played a crucial role in assessing the environmental impacts of the conflict. They
conduct research, collect data, and document instances of environmental damage, including
pollution, destruction of ecosystems, and contamination of water sources. This information is
vital for understanding the extent of environmental harm caused by the conflict.

2. Advocacy for Environmental Protection:

NGOs operating in the region actively advocate for environmental protection. They raise
awareness about the consequences of the conflict on the environment, both locally and
internationally. Through campaigns, reports, and media engagement, these organizations work to
garner support for sustainable practices and policies that address environmental concerns.

3. Humanitarian Assistance with Environmental Considerations:

NGOs providing humanitarian aid in conflict-affected areas consider environmental factors in

their relief efforts. This may involve distributing aid in an eco-friendly manner, promoting
sustainable practices in resource distribution, and addressing environmental health risks to
mitigate further harm to ecosystems.

4. Capacity Building and Community Involvement:

Some NGOs focus on building the capacity of local communities to address environmental
challenges. Through educational programs and training initiatives, these organizations empower
communities to actively participate in environmental protection, sustainable resource
management, and post-conflict environmental rehabilitation.

5. International Collaboration:

NGOs often collaborate with international partners, other NGOs, and governmental agencies to
amplify their impact. This collaborative approach facilitates the sharing of resources, expertise,
and innovative solutions, contributing to a more comprehensive response to the environmental
impacts of the conflict.

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6. Legal Advocacy and Accountability:

NGOs may engage in legal advocacy to hold parties accountable for environmental violations
during the conflict. By documenting evidence of environmental damage, these organizations
contribute to accountability processes, seeking justice for affected communities and promoting
adherence to international environmental laws.

7. Innovative Solutions for Environmental Rehabilitation:

NGOs introduce innovative solutions for environmental rehabilitation in conflict-affected areas.

This could include implementing sustainable agriculture practices, reforestation projects, and the
use of environmentally friendly technologies to restore ecosystems and promote long-term
resilience.

8. Addressing Environmental Health Risks:

NGOs address environmental health risks resulting from the conflict, such as water and air
pollution. They provide resources, expertise, and support to mitigate these risks, safeguarding the
health of the affected populations and promoting sustainable environmental practices.

9. Promotion of Sustainable Development:

NGOs actively contribute to the promotion of sustainable development in post-conflict scenarios.

They advocate for the integration of environmental considerations in reconstruction and
development plans, emphasizing the importance of balancing human needs with ecological
preservation.

In summary, NGOs in the Russia-Ukraine conflict contribute significantly to assessing,

addressing, and mitigating environmental impacts. Their efforts encompass a broad range of
activities, from data collection and advocacy to humanitarian assistance, capacity building, legal
advocacy, and innovative solutions, all aimed at fostering environmental sustainability in the
midst of conflict and during post-conflict recovery.

B. COLLABORATIVE EFFORTS WITH INTERNATIONAL AGENCIES

Collaborative efforts between Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and international

agencies are essential in addressing complex global challenges, including those arising from

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conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Such collaboration enhances the effectiveness and
reach of initiatives aimed at environmental protection, humanitarian assistance, and sustainable
development. Several key aspects characterize collaborative efforts between NGOs and
international agencies:

1. Information Sharing and Coordination:

NGOs and international agencies collaborate by sharing information and coordinating their
activities. This helps in avoiding duplication of efforts, maximizing the use of resources, and
ensuring a more comprehensive understanding of the environmental impacts and humanitarian
needs in conflict zones.

2. Resource Mobilization:

Collaborative efforts involve joint resource mobilization. NGOs often lack the financial and
logistical resources of international agencies, and collaboration allows for pooling resources to
fund projects, conduct research, and implement initiatives that address environmental challenges
more effectively.

3. Technical Expertise and Capacity Building:

International agencies bring technical expertise and experience to collaborative projects. NGOs
benefit from the knowledge and skills provided by these agencies, leading to enhanced capacity
for NGOs in areas such as environmental impact assessment, disaster response, and sustainable
development practices.

4. Comprehensive Approach to Challenges:

Collaboration enables a more comprehensive approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges

of conflicts. International agencies often have broader mandates, while NGOs bring grassroots
knowledge and community connections. Together, they can address both immediate needs and
long-term development goals.

5. Advocacy and Policy Influence:

NGOs, with their often nimble and advocacy-oriented approaches, collaborate with international
agencies to influence policies at various levels. By aligning their efforts, they can advocate for

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policies that prioritize environmental protection, human rights, and sustainable development in
conflict zones.

6. Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding:

Collaborative efforts between NGOs and international agencies may extend to peacebuilding and
conflict resolution. By working together, they can contribute to initiatives that address the root
causes of conflicts, fostering conditions for sustainable development and environmental
conservation.

7. Data Collection and Research:

International agencies often support NGOs in conducting research and data collection efforts.
This collaboration results in more robust and reliable information, which is crucial for
understanding the environmental impacts of conflicts and formulating evidence-based policies
and interventions.

8. Emergency Response and Relief Operations:

In times of crises, collaborative efforts streamline emergency response and relief operations.
International agencies provide logistical support, and NGOs, with their local networks and
community connections, ensure that aid reaches the most vulnerable populations and that
environmental considerations are integrated into relief efforts.

9. Long-Term Sustainable Development Initiatives:

Collaborative projects between NGOs and international agencies extend beyond immediate relief
efforts. They involve the planning and implementation of long-term sustainable development
initiatives, addressing environmental concerns while promoting resilience and stability in
conflict-affected areas.

In summary, collaborative efforts between NGOs and international agencies are crucial for
addressing the complex challenges posed by conflicts. By leveraging their respective strengths,
these collaborations contribute to more effective, sustainable, and holistic approaches to
environmental protection, humanitarian assistance, and post-conflict development.

C. CASE STUDIES ILLUSTRATING SUCCESSFUL PARTNERSHIP

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The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has been a humanitarian crisis that has affected
millions of people. The war has led to the displacement of people, destruction of infrastructure,
and loss of lives. In such situations, partnerships between NGOs and international agencies play
a crucial role in providing aid to the affected people.

One successful partnership between NGOs and international agencies regarding the Russia and
Ukraine war is the collaboration between the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC)
and the Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS). The ICRC is an international humanitarian
organization, while the URCS is a local NGO in Ukraine.

In this partnership, the ICRC provided financial and technical support to the URCS to enhance
their capacity in responding to the humanitarian needs caused by the conflict. The ICRC also
provided training to the URCS staff and volunteers on various aspects of humanitarian
assistance, including first aid, psychosocial support, and emergency response.

The URCS, with the support of the ICRC, played a crucial role in delivering humanitarian aid to
the affected population in conflict zones. They provided emergency medical assistance,
distributed food and non-food items, and facilitated the safe evacuation of civilians from the
conflict-affected areas. The URCS also conducted awareness campaigns on humanitarian
principles and the rights of affected populations.

This partnership was successful in ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of humanitarian
assistance to the people affected by the conflict. The collaboration between the ICRC and the
URCS allowed for the pooling of resources, expertise, and networks, which enabled a more
coordinated and comprehensive response to the humanitarian needs.

One such example of a successful partnership is the partnership between the International Rescue
Committee (IRC) and partners in Poland and Ukraine. The IRC is an international humanitarian
organization that responds to the world’s most dire humanitarian crises. The organization is
working with partners in Poland and Ukraine to reach vulnerable communities and families with
essential health and financial services as well as information and protection. David Miliband,
President of the IRC, explained that: “There are three main groups they are trying to reach: those
trapped by the fighting inside Ukraine, those fleeing inside the country, and those who have
made it to the European Union as refugees. Our partners will be working across the country. We

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are also using our extensive refugee support services in Germany and Greece as the basis for
planning help for refugee integration in those European countries.”

Another example is the program Decentralization Offering Better Results and Efficiency
(DOBRE) across Ukraine, funded by the United States Agency for International Development
(USAID). Since 2016, Global Communities has led an international consortium of American,
Ukrainian, and Polish organizations to implement the program. The program aims to improve the
quality of life for Ukrainians by supporting local governments in implementing reforms that
improve public services and promote economic growth.

These are just a few examples of successful partnerships between NGOs and international
agencies regarding the Russia and Ukraine war. These partnerships have played a vital role in
providing aid to the affected people and helping them rebuild their lives.

IX. CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR FUTURE

IMPLEMENTATION

ANTICIPATING FUTURE CONFLICTS:

1. NAVIGATING GEOPOLITICAL UNCERTAINTY:

The ever-changing landscape of global politics presents a significant challenge in identifying

regions at risk of conflict. Geopolitical shifts, evolving international dynamics, changing
alliances, power struggles, and territorial disputes contribute to the complexity of accurately
assessing and predicting potential conflict zones. To address this challenge, policymakers and
analysts need to develop a comprehensive understanding of the intricate relationships between
nations and adapt to rapidly changing geopolitical circumstances. This requires continuous
monitoring, analysis of geopolitical trends, and the ability to anticipate potential conflicts based
on political developments.

2. RESTRICTED DATA ACCESS:

Obtaining reliable data in sensitive areas poses a significant challenge for anticipating conflicts
and assessing environmental vulnerabilities. Conflict zones often restrict access to data due to
security concerns, hindering the collection of accurate information on environmental risks. This

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lack of data can impede effective decision-making and hinder efforts to mitigate environmental
impacts. To overcome this challenge, innovative approaches to data collection and analysis are
required. This may involve leveraging remote sensing technologies, satellite imagery, and other
non-traditional sources of data to gather information on environmental risks in conflict-affected
areas. Building trust and cooperation with stakeholders in these areas is also crucial in gaining
access to reliable data.

3. VARIABLE POLITICAL WILL:

Inconsistent political will presents a significant obstacle in anticipating conflicts and

implementing measures for potential conflict zones. Anticipating conflicts requires consistent
political will, which may vary among nations. Political priorities and interests can shift over
time, potentially undermining efforts to address environmental risks and prevent conflicts. To
overcome this challenge, it is crucial to foster consistent political will through diplomatic efforts,
international cooperation, and awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of
environmental sustainability and peacebuilding. Engaging policymakers, civil society
organizations, and the public in discussions about the interconnections between environment,
conflict, and security can help generate long-term commitment to conflict prevention and
environmental protection.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR FUTURE IMPLEMENTATION:

1. DEVELOPMENT OF EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS:

One promising opportunity lies in the development of early warning systems that integrate
environmental indicators. By monitoring various environmental factors such as resource scarcity,
deforestation, water stress, and climate change impacts, early warning systems can provide
timely alerts and enable proactive measures to prevent or mitigate conflicts. These systems can
help policymakers and stakeholders make informed decisions by providing them with valuable
insights into the potential triggers of conflicts. Early warning systems can also facilitate
coordination among different stakeholders and prompt timely intervention to address the root
causes of potential conflicts.

2. ENHANCED INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION:

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Strengthening international collaboration is another key opportunity for improving conflict
anticipation and prevention. By fostering cooperation among nations for data sharing, joint
research efforts, and capacity building initiatives, countries can gain a more comprehensive
understanding of potential conflict zones. International collaboration can help bridge gaps in
knowledge, expertise, and resources by facilitating the exchange of information on
environmental risks and conflict dynamics. Collaborative initiatives can also promote dialogue,
trust-building, and mutual understanding among nations, which are essential for preventing
conflicts and promoting sustainable peace.

3. INTEGRATION OF CONFLICT SENSITIVITY IN EIAS:

Another opportunity lies in integrating conflict sensitivity into Environmental Impact

Assessments (EIAs). EIAs are crucial tools for evaluating the environmental consequences of
proposed projects or policies. By incorporating conflict sensitivity into the EIA process, potential
conflicts can be identified and mitigated at an early stage. This approach ensures that the
assessment considers not only the direct environmental impacts but also the potential conflicts
that may arise due to the project or policy. Integrating conflict sensitivity requires engaging with
local communities, conducting thorough stakeholder consultations, and considering the social,
cultural, economic, and political context in which the project or policy will be implemented.

INCORPORATING EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES INTO FUTURE EIAS:

1. TECHNOLOGICAL DISPARITIES:

While emerging technologies offer immense potential for improving EIAs, there are some
challenges related to technological disparities across regions. Developing countries or regions
with limited resources may struggle to adopt and implement emerging technologies effectively.
Addressing these disparities is crucial to ensure equitable and comprehensive EIA processes.
Efforts should be made to bridge the technological divide by providing technical assistance,
capacity building programs, and access to affordable technologies for all regions.

2. DATA PRIVACY AND SECURITY:

The use of emerging technologies raises valid concerns about data privacy and security. As EIAs
increasingly rely on advanced technologies such as remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and big

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data analytics, it is essential to ensure that privacy rights are respected and data is securely stored
and transmitted. Implementing robust data protection measures, adhering to ethical guidelines for
data collection and analysis, and complying with relevant legal frameworks are essential steps in
addressing these concerns.

3. SKILL SHORTAGES:

The implementation of emerging technologies requires skilled professionals who can effectively
utilize these tools in EIAs. However, there may be a shortage of such expertise in certain regions
or sectors. To address this challenge, investing in capacity building programs, training initiatives,
and educational opportunities can help develop a skilled workforce capable of harnessing the
potential of emerging technologies in EIAs. Collaboration between academia, industry experts,
and government agencies can play a vital role in bridging the skill gap.

X. CONCLUSION

A. RECAPITULATION OF KEY INSIGHTS

In revisiting the intricate nexus between environmental impact assessment (EIA) and conflict
zones, this paper has uncovered pivotal lessons gleaned from the Russia-Ukraine Conflict. Our
exploration of EIA's conceptual framework, legal underpinnings, challenges, novel strategies,
and successful models has shed light on the nuanced interplay between these elements.
The Russia-Ukraine Conflict has served as a poignant backdrop, laying bare the profound
environmental ramifications inflicted by conflict dynamics. From the repercussions of military
activities to the upheaval of communities and ensuing human rights transgressions, the
ecological toll of conflict is undeniable. However, within these challenges lie opportunities for
inventive methodologies and the application of acquired insights.

B. RAMIFICATIONS FOR FUTURE EIA IN CONFLICT ZONES

The implications of this inquiry transcend the specificities of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict.
Acknowledging the intrinsic linkage between environmental deterioration, conflict, and human
rights violations calls for a paradigm shift in how we approach conflict resolution. It underscores
the necessity of integrating EIA into the broader tapestry of peacebuilding, recognizing the
symbiotic relationship between environmental sustainability and enduring peace.

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The paper emphasizes that forthcoming EIA initiatives in conflict zones should be forward-
looking, anticipating potential conflicts through early warning systems and leveraging
technological advancements. The integration of emerging technologies, such as remote sensing
and GIS mapping, holds promise for more precise and timely assessments. Nonetheless, it is
imperative to strike a balance between the advantages of technology and the preservation of
indigenous knowledge.

D. CALL TO MOBILIZE FOR ENHANCED ENVIRONMENTAL

PROTECTION AND HUMAN RIGHTS IN CONFLICT AREAS

In light of the findings, this paper issues a fervent call to action. The international community,
governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and local communities must
collaboratively strive for heightened environmental protection and human rights in conflict areas.
Strengthening international cooperation is paramount, necessitating collaborative approaches for
both conflict resolution and environmental preservation.

National legislative frameworks must undergo augmentation to bridge existing gaps and actively
incorporate environmental considerations into conflict resolution policies. The meaningful
involvement of local communities in the EIA process is pivotal for empowerment. It is through a
collective endeavour that we can foster sustainable development, alleviate environmental
degradation, and safeguard human rights amidst the most challenging circumstances.
In conclusion, the insights distilled from the Russia-Ukraine Conflict not only underscore the
challenges but also illuminate the immense potential for constructive transformation. As we
navigate an uncertain future, guided by these insights, we can chart a course toward a world
where conflicts no longer exact a toll on our environment and the essential rights of affected
populations. It is a rallying call to fortify resilience, nurture comprehension, and, above all,
champion a future where peace and environmental custodianship converge for the prosperity of
our planet and its inhabitants.

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REFERENCES

 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). (n.d.). mygov.scot.

https://www.mygov.scot/eia#:~:text=Environmental%20Impact%20Assessment
%20(EIA)%20is,reduce%20or%20offset%20those%20effects
 Zhou, X., Lü, G., Xu, Z., Yan, X., Khu, S., Jiang, Y., & Zhao, J. (2023, January
1). Influence of Russia-Ukraine War on the Global Energy and Food Security.

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