Sustainability amid conflict: Gaza's environmental, social, and economic struggles

Abstract

The recent war on Gaza (October 2023–January 2025) has led to profound environmental degradation, social instability, and economic collapse, posing substantial obstacles to sustainable development. This short communication explores the compounded effects of this war on natural resources, social fabric, and economic foundations in the Gaza Strip. Environmental degradation (e.g., water contamination, soil erosion, and air quality decline) resulting from military activities, has left local ecosystems and vital resources extremely compromised. Social cohesion is severely weakened by the high casualty toll, displacement, and limited access to healthcare, education, and other critical services and facilities, all of which undermine resilience and stability in the Strip. Economically, the blockade and mass destruction of essential infrastructure have drastically hindered growth, driven up unemployment and poverty, and restricted opportunities for industry and innovation. These intertwined challenges underscore the urgent need to address this unprecedented humanitarian socio-economic crisis in Gaza by implementing sustainable infrastructure, responsible resource management, and robust international collaboration to build resilience and ensure long-term sustainability.