Environmental Warfare in Cyberspace: Can Cyber Operations Causing Climate Harm Constitute Prohibited Environmental Damage Under International Law?

Abstract

This study examines whether cyber operations causing climate or environmental harm constitute prohibited environmental damage under international law. Using doctrinal legal analysis, it assesses humanitarian, environmental, and responsibility frameworks, finding that existing principles may extend to cyber-induced harm despite significant regulatory gaps globally. Cyber operations increasingly target physical infrastructure and environmental systems, blurring the lines between cybersecurity, environmental protection, and armed conflict law. This research critically examines whether cyber operations that cause climate harm such as disrupting energy grids, water systems, or industrial controls leading to emissions increases can fall under the umbrella of environmental warfare prohibited by international law. By analysing existing legal frameworks, state practice, and emerging cyber threats with environmental impact, the article argues that although current international law does not explicitly regulate climate harm via cyber operations, core principles of environmental protection, humanitarian law, and state responsibility can and should be interpreted to encompass such harm.