scorched-earth policy

Noun

scorched-earth policy (plural scorched-earth policies)

1. A strategy that involves destroying buildings, crops, and other resources that could be useful to opponents.
   • The Ethiopian Army waged a scorched-earth policy with saturation bombings and destruction of Eritrea's infrastructure.1993 April 24, Donatella Lorch, “Eritreans Voting on Independence From Ethiopia”, in New York Times, retrieved 02 Nov 2013
2. (figuratively) An intentional course of action that is drastic or ruinous.
   • The scorched-earth policy that voters adopted toward the Tories left them with no seats in Scotland and Wales and greatly reduced numbers through the prosperous swath called Middle England.1997 May 3, Warren Hoge, “Blair Takes Charge, Vowing 'Practicable' Policies”, in New York Times, retrieved 02 Nov 2013
   • Group member Graeme Bickerdike said: "With its infilling and demolition programme currently paused, NH has adopted a scorched-earth policy of destroying habitats to ensure there are no ecological barriers to projects resuming quickly when government gives the green light.2021 November 17, “Network News: National Highways refutes Dorset bridge removal allegations”, in RAIL, number 944, page 26