War’s Hidden Climate Cost: How Ukraine and Gaza Rebuilds Could Skyrocket CO₂

In this discussion, Doug McIntyre and David Callaway examine the long-term environmental impact of rebuilding war-torn regions like Gaza and Ukraine. A new study reveals that reconstruction, not just active conflict, will significantly increase CO₂ emissions, primarily due to the use of concrete, one of the most emissions-intensive materials. While some companies are innovating with “clean” concrete, the vast scale required for rebuilding means emissions will likely surge. The hosts also compare Gaza’s future reconstruction to Ukraine’s, where planning is already underway for a massive post-war rebuild.