US Military Greatly Impacts Environment

Production still from the documentary film Scarred Lands & Wounded Lives.

By Susan M Smith
Pittsburgh Branch

On February 24, 2019, WILPF Pittsburgh organized a showing of Scarred Lands & Wounded Lives: The Environmental Footprint of War, a documentary by Lincoln and Alice Day, at the Squirrel Hill branch of the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh. The film discusses the impact of war and preparation for war on the environment in all parts of the world. The movie was released in 2008, so we also presented some more current information. After the presentation, we had a lively discussion of the situation and possible actions.

Environmental damage over the last 50 years has been increasing. Problems abound with water contamination (ocean and rivers), falling water tables, air and soil contamination, and reduced forests. So much of this pollution is caused by the US military. Jet fuel is in the water and air; tanks consume two gallons per mile; bombs destroy buildings and forests; deforestation occurs because of chemicals; and much more.

The video shows and explains the situation in clear terms.  The images are shocking and thought-provoking.  (If you are interested in learning more about the full scope of this damage, read H Patricia Hynes seven-part series in Truthout on the devastating environmental impact of US militarism: War and the Tragedy of the Commons).

It is important to get out information about the US military’s impact on the environment in a broader way. Changing military practice could go a long way to lessening environmental damage and climate change.

Those interested in the video can find further information and view it here. Five Scarred Lands shorts can also be viewed and shared at www.scarredlandsfilm.com.

Inset photo: WWI Gun Crew, production still from the film Scarred Lands & Wounded Lives.