Posted: January 18th, 2023

Relationship Between Naval Operations and Maritime Environmental Issues

Relationship Between Naval Operations and Maritime Environmental Issues
The relationship between naval operations and maritime environmental issues is complex and multifaceted. Naval operations have the potential to have a significant impact on the marine environment, both positively and negatively, depending on the nature of the operations and the measures taken to mitigate their environmental impact.
Maritime activities such as shipping, fishing, and oil and gas extraction, can release pollutants into the ocean, leading to marine pollution and destruction of marine habitats. On the other hand, naval operations can also play a role in protecting the marine environment through surveillance and enforcement of laws aimed at reducing marine pollution. Additionally, naval operations can also support the preservation of marine resources through efforts such as anti-piracy operations and fisheries patrols.
One example of how naval operations can have a negative impact on the marine environment is through oil spills from naval vessels. Oil spills can have devastating effects on marine life, including the destruction of habitats and the death of aquatic organisms. In 1989, the Exxon Valdez oil spill in Alaska resulted in the release of over 11 million gallons of oil, leading to the deaths of hundreds of thousands of birds, fish, and marine mammals.
However, naval operations can also have positive impacts on the marine environment. For instance, naval vessels are often used in environmental monitoring and surveillance. The use of naval assets in this capacity can provide a way to effectively detect and track illegal fishing, pollution, and other activities that harm the marine environment. Additionally, naval operations can help to enforce laws and regulations aimed at protecting the marine environment.
Another example of how naval operations can support the marine environment is through their participation in disaster relief efforts. In the aftermath of natural disasters, naval assets can be used to provide aid, transport people and supplies, and help to clean up the debris. They can also help to minimize the environmental impact of the disaster by preventing oil spills and other environmental hazards.
Additionally, naval operations can play a key role in protecting marine biodiversity. Some naval operations, such as anti-piracy operations, help to protect marine resources by preventing illegal fishing and other activities that may damage marine habitats. Navies also have a responsibility to protect endangered species and have been involved in enforcing regulations to protect marine mammals and migratory birds.
However, naval operations also have the potential to cause noise pollution which can have negative impacts on marine animals. Underwater noise from ships and sonar can disrupt the communication and behavior of marine animals, and could cause injury and even death. To mitigate this, Navies around the world have been taking steps to reduce the environmental impact of their operations by developing and implementing quieter ships and sonars, and avoiding sensitive marine habitats during exercises.
The relationship between naval operations and maritime environmental issues is a complex one, and naval operations have the potential to have both positive and negative impacts on the marine environment. Positive impacts can include environmental monitoring and surveillance, disaster relief, and protecting marine resources. However, negative impacts such as oil spills, noise pollution, and habitat destruction can also occur. It is important for Navies to take into account the potential environmental impact of their operations, and implement mitigation measures to reduce these impacts. Additionally, cooperation between Navies, international organizations and other stakeholders is essential for protecting and preserving the marine environment.