Accession Number:

ADA326869

Title:

Promoting Environmental Security During Contingency Operations.

Descriptive Note:

Research rept.,

Corporate Author:

ARMY WAR COLL CARLISLE BARRACKS PA

Personal Author(s):

• Bush, Brian X.

Report Date:

1997-03-13

Pagination or Media Count:

35.0

Abstract:

The U.S. military has been involved in numerous contingency operations since the end of the cold war and the trend is likely to continue. At the same time, environmental problems have been recognized as a threat to national security. Although the military has been active both domestically and at its overseas installations in helping to achieve environmental security, little has been said or done about resolving environmental issues that arise during contingency operations. Drawing on the experience of Operation Uphold Democracy in Haiti, this paper argues that there must be improved recognition of environmental issues, appropriate assignment of responsibility to deal with these issues as part of the interagency process, and adequate resourcing of deploying military forces. Adopting this methodology will allow U.S. forces to serve as an environmental role model during contingency operations and enhance resolution of environmental problems that affect the stability and security of the host country. Finally, while there is always a danger of mission creep, joint force commanders should be provided with sufficient Humanitarian and Civic Assistance funds to pursue projects they consider vital to creating a stable and secure environment.

Descriptors:

• *MILITARY STRATEGY
• *NATIONAL SECURITY
• *ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
• *OPERATIONS OTHER THAN WAR
• DEPLOYMENT
• MILITARY ASSISTANCE
• ECONOMIC IMPACT
• NATURAL RESOURCES
• ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
• THREAT EVALUATION
• RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
• ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

Subject Categories:

• Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics
• Environmental Health and Safety

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE