30 Jun Weaponizing the Earth: The Hidden Frontlines Of Environmental Geopolitics

Miranda Freund Tavárez

School of Politics, Economics & Global Affairs, IE University, Madrid, Spain.

Bachelor’s in International Relations.

E-mail: mfreund.ieu2023@student.ie.edu.

Abstract

With a concentration on land-based environmental degradation, this article explores the deliberate weaponization of the environment as a means of achieving political, economic, and military objectives. It looks into the connection between environmental weaponization and the development of Sustainable Development Goal 15 (Life on Land) since 2015 and places the discussion within the context of environmental security theory. The paper illustrates how deforestation, agricultural sabotage, and scorched-earth tactics jeopardize food security, degrade biodiversity, and obstruct sustainable land management initiatives through case studies of the Amazon Rainforest and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. It also analyzes how trade laws and international law could aid in dealing with these issues, pointing out both the benefits and drawbacks of sanctions and multilateral frameworks in situations where state players are involved. In order to stop the increasing weaponisation of ecosystems, the article’s conclusion highlights the urgent need for improved supply chain accountability, greater support for civil society initiatives, and stronger enforcement tools.

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Keywords: Environmental Weaponization, SDG 15, Environmental Security, Ecological Sabotage, and Sustainable Land, Management.