Which environmental hazard was notably experienced in Iraq and Afghanistan?

The presence of large burn pits in Iraq and Afghanistan represents a significant environmental hazard for military personnel and veterans. These burn pits were used to incinerate a wide variety of waste materials, including plastic, chemicals, and other debris generated by military operations. The smoke and toxic fumes released during these burns posed serious health risks to service members, leading to respiratory problems, long-term health issues, and even cancers.

Burn pits became a prominent concern due to the scale and frequency of their use in these conflict zones, alongside the hazardous materials that were often disposed of in these pits without proper environmental controls. Many veterans have reported adverse health effects after exposure to the emissions, which has led to ongoing research and discussions regarding the potential link between burn pit exposure and various medical conditions.

Other options, while they represent real concerns in military operations, do not have the same widespread impact and recognition as the issue of burn pits has garnered over recent years. For instance, heavy rainfall incidents and extreme cold temperatures are seasonal and regionally specific challenges, while landmine explosions, though dangerous, are more about immediate combat hazards rather than ongoing environmental health issues. Hence, the issue of burn pits stands out as a particularly notable environmental hazard experienced by troops during their service in Iraq and Afghanistan.