The shelling caused the production of about 39 million tons of rubble and debris, and the rubble contains dangerous materials and industrial and medical waste, which poses serious health and environmental risks, in addition to air pollution due to dust and continuous bombing that worsens the situation and severely affects the air and the health of the population in the Gaza Strip.
Effects of the bombing on the environment in Gaza
The impact of the bombardment on the environment in the Gaza Strip is a multi-faceted disaster, profoundly affecting both natural resources and the health of the population. These damages are not transient, but are expected to be long-lasting, leaving environmental and health footprints for future generations. Bombing on water, soil, air, infrastructure, and ecosystems has a potential long-term impact.
1. Impact of Bombing Water Pollution
The water crisis in Gaza is one of the most prominent environmental challenges resulting from the bombing, as water sources have been severely affected and their quality has deteriorated to dangerous levels. It is estimated that over 70% of the water and sewage networks were damaged by the bombing, resulting in a near-total collapse of water management infrastructure.
- Collapse of sewage systems and groundwater pollution
As wastewater treatment plants stop and close, vast amounts of untreated wastewater are discharged directly into the sea, polluting coastlines and marine waters. This not only contaminates the marine environment, but also leaks into groundwater, the main source of drinking water in the sector, contaminating it with toxins, heavy metals, and germs. This situation has led to the spread of epidemics and water-borne diseases, especially among children, who are most at risk.
- Effects of munitions and chemicals on water quality
Water pollution is not limited to sewage, but extends to the infiltration of toxic substances from unexploded ordnance and chemicals used in bombardment into the soil and then into groundwater. This chemical contamination poses a significant long-term health risk and may lead to chronic health problems for the population.
2. Impact of bombing on soil pollution and destruction of agricultural land
The soil in Gaza is severely damaged by shelling, threatening food security and hindering any future agricultural recovery efforts. Causes of soil degradation range from direct pollution to destruction of agricultural infrastructure.
- Soil contamination with toxins and heavy metals
Soils are directly contaminated with toxins and heavy metals from munitions and explosives, affecting their fertility and their ability to support plant growth. Not only does this contamination affect crops, it can also seep into the food chain, posing a risk to human health.
In addition, the accumulation of huge amounts of debris, estimated at 39 million tons, is a huge environmental burden. This aggregate contains hazardous materials such as asbestos, industrial and medical waste, and heavy metals, which increases soil and water pollution.
- Destruction of vegetation and agricultural land
The shelling caused the destruction of half of the tree cover and agricultural land in the Strip. Dredging and uprooting contribute to the desertification of Gaza and reduce land fertility. This destruction leads to loss of biodiversity, increases soil erosion, and exacerbates the food security crisis in an already resource-poor region.
Read more about Destruction of agricultural land in Gaza
3. Impact of bombing on air pollution and carbon emissions
Air pollution is a serious consequence of bombing, directly affecting the health of the population and contributing to the problem of climate change. The sources of air pollution in Gaza range from flying dust to chemical emissions.
- Dust and fine particles
The destruction of buildings and infrastructure results in massive amounts of dust and fine particles in the air. These particles carry harmful substances such as heavy metals and asbestos, which pose a risk to the respiratory system and cause widespread health problems.
- Carbon and toxic gas emissions
Bombing and the burning of waste and war-related waste contribute to the release of toxic gases and volatile organic pollutants into the air. Additionally, studies show that the carbon emissions from the war are huge. During the first 120 days of the war, emissions were estimated at 536,410 tonnes of carbon dioxide. It is estimated that clearing the rubble alone could emit around 90,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases, exacerbating the problem of global climate change.
Read more about Gaza under the rubble
Impact of the contribution in support of the Palestinian people in the current situation
Contributing to the support of the Palestinian people and donating to Gaza is a humanitarian and moral duty, especially in light of the harsh living conditions they face as a result of the ongoing siege and aggression. Any contribution, no matter how small, makes a real difference to the lives of families struggling to meet their basic needs.
1. Provision of potable water
Contributing to the provision of safe drinking water is one of the most important forms of humanitarian support. Repeated shelling and aggression have destroyed water infrastructure and contaminated water sources as a result of the breakdown of desalination plants and sewage. Donations and contributions to water projects are vital to saving lives and improving the quality of daily life, especially in water-scarce areas such as the Gaza Strip. They include support for well-drilling projects, restoration of water networks, and provision of filters or water tanks, as they protect public health and reduce the spread of water-related diseases.
2. Provision of medical supplies
Hospitals and health centers suffer from large shortages of essential medicines and equipment, which endanger the lives of patients and hinder the provision of necessary care for the injured and wounded. Contributions in this area make a direct difference, saving lives and providing treatment to those most in need, such as children, the chronically ill and those injured by aggression. It also enables medical personnel to perform their humanitarian duty effectively, and relieves considerable pressure on the overburdened health system.
