Gaza War Generates 33.2 Mln Tons of Carbon Emissions

Palestinian authorities have warned of a growing environmental crisis in the Gaza Strip, estimating that the conflict has generated 33.2 million tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions.

In a joint statement marking World Environment Day, the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics and the Environmental Quality Authority said the emissions are comparable to the annual output of some countries and equivalent to emissions from roughly 7.6 million petrol-powered vehicles over one year.

Officials said around 1.9 million tons of emissions resulted directly from military operations, while the remainder is linked to debris removal and the future reconstruction of damaged homes and infrastructure.

The report also highlighted severe damage to Gaza’s water and sanitation systems. Water prices have surged following the destruction of key networks, while more than 90% of wastewater infrastructure has reportedly been damaged or destroyed.

Authorities warned that the collapse of sewage treatment facilities and pumping stations, combined with ongoing shortages of electricity and fuel, has led to wastewater flowing into streets, increasing environmental and public health risks across the territory.