Conceptual Site Models to Support Environmental Management of Training Areas (Chapter in "Talking Tactics: Environmental Protection and Armed Conflicts")
Publisher: environmental SCIENTIST
Author(s): Ole Feurer, Tracey Temple, and Melissa Ladyman
Date: 2020
Topics: Land, Public Health, Renewable Resources, Weapons, Waste, and Pollution
Countries: Germany
The contamination of land and water by energetic materials (explosive fillers and propellants) has become a considerable environmental problem worldwide. For example, 70 years after the Second World War, Germany has approximately 750 former explosive and ammunition factory sites that cover a total area of 10,000 km3 and are registered as contaminated land. Other sources estimate that up to 3,200 sites in Germany require remediation. The main issue with explosive facilities and military training areas is the possible contamination of natural resources, which may in turn lead to uncontrolled operational and reputational risks for ammunition producers and military users alike.