Ukraine Faces Human, Environmental Disasters
There can be no doubt about the huge humanitarian toll that Ukraine is suffering every day the war continues. Over two million have fled to neighboring countries and those left behind face shortages of all basic needs: food, shelter, water sanitation and means to support themselves.
The ongoing pandemic must be an issue – all while hospitals are being destroyed, and doctors and nurses are working non-stop.
There is also an increasing environmental toll taking place in Ukraine. The whole world is worried about the physical safety and the continued monitoring of the country’s 15 nuclear power reactors. We know one nuclear plant has been seized with no apparent release of radiation. It is unknown if the operation is proceeding according to strict guidelines. The defunct nuclear plant at Chernobyl was also overtaken. Radioactive dust was kicked up by troop vehicles and may have been carried by winds. We just do not know the extent yet. The invading troops may also suffer long-term effects of breathing in this dust. What if the next strike hits a nuclear site? This would be a huge environmental disaster.
Other toxins are also being released in the atmosphere from fires started from pipeline explosions, buildings crumpling, and factories releasing chemical waste and fumes. Hazardous waste depots are breached – leaking chemicals into waterways and rivers. All these air, water and soil toxins also affect the natural world and its ecology.
If hydroelectric dams are destroyed, flooding would cause more environmental issues as well as restrict access to clean water. Sanitation stations and water supply and treatment plants have been targeted. Lack of proper sanitation, of course, compounds the problems of public health.
The International Criminal Court has begun investigations into war crimes and crimes against humanity against Russia. Nothing, thus far, has seemed to deter the ongoing war against Ukraine. The world is holding its collective breath while watching human and environmental devastation occur in the present – and the repair and rebuilding loom large in the future (This summary was from an article written by Katie Surma for the Inside Climate News Organization.)
If one is so inclined, there are numerous organizations that are asking for funds to assist the Ukrainian people. Webpages of just two are listed below: Episcopal relief and Development, and Red Cross.
Earth Steward Action: Pray for the people of Ukraine and for a quick end to war. If you can, please give to a reputable organization.