Green Humanitarianism: Environmental Sustainability of Interventions in Disaster Affected Regions
Climate-related disasters are increasing in frequency and intensity, placing growing pressure on humanitarian response systems worldwide. While humanitarian interventions are essential for saving lives and providing emergency assistance, these operations can also generate unintended environmental impacts through logistics systems, temporary infrastructure, and relief supply chains. This study examines how humanitarian interventions can integrate environmental sustainability without compromising the delivery of immediate life-saving assistance. Using a qualitative desk review approach, the study synthesises peer-reviewed literature, policy reports from international organisations, and documented case studies of humanitarian interventions published between 2015 and 2025. The analysis identifies three key themes: the environmental impacts of humanitarian operations, emerging sustainable practices within humanitarian response, and institutional and operational barriers that limit the adoption of green humanitarian approaches. The findings indicate that while awareness of environmental sustainability in humanitarian practice is increasing, its integration into disaster response remains uneven due to operational urgency, funding structures, and limited implementation frameworks. However, emerging initiatives such as greener logistics systems, sustainable procurement practices, and community-based resource management demonstrate potential pathways toward more environmentally responsible humanitarian action. The study contributes to the growing discussion on green humanitarianism by highlighting the need for practical frameworks that balance rapid emergency response with environmental sustainability and long-term resilience in disaster-affected regions.
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Fredrick Wilson
@fwilso
Volume 2, Issue 1
Year 2026

