Insights from a specialist NATO meeting, AVT-394: advancing environmental sustainability in military training

Abstract

The NATO specialist meeting, AVT-394, held in Koblenz, Germany in October 2024, gathered experts from NATO countries, including Canada, Germany, the UK, Finland, Denmark, Switzerland and the USA, to evaluate advancements in water sampling, monitoring, and remediation techniques aimed at mitigating munitions-related contamination in live-firing ranges. As a current PhD student at the UK Defence Academy, Cranfield University, funded by Cranfield University and the Ministry of Defence and Cranfield University under the CBRN educational program and supervised by Professor Tracey Temple and Professor Frederic Coulon, I had the opportunity to attend and present at the specialist meeting. My research focuses on representative sampling methods for hazardous chemicals released by industry, warfare or terrorist acts. My background in Forensic science and analysis has enabled me to build a broad scientific basis, thus aiding me in understanding diverse scientific approaches. Presenting a paper on my current research explaining the importance of a well thought through sampling plan for post-blast water sampling, was a great and invaluable experience. This opportunity allowed me to network with experienced industry peers and engage in valuable knowledge exchange.