The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global authority that sets the environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment.
Established in 1972, its mission is to provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.
Addressing the Triple Planetary Crisis
UNEP focuses its work on tackling the “triple planetary crisis”:
- Climate Change: Accelerating global efforts to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change, promoting low-carbon, resource-efficient economies.
- Nature and Biodiversity Loss: Working to safeguard ecosystems, protect biodiversity, and manage natural resources sustainably.
- Pollution and Waste: Addressing air, land, and water pollution, and promoting the sound management of chemicals and waste (including plastic pollution).
Core Functions
UNEP achieves its mandate through several core functions:
- Science-Policy Interface: Providing cutting-edge scientific assessments (like the Global Environment Outlook) to inform evidence-based policy decisions.
- Environmental Governance: Assisting countries in developing strong environmental laws, institutions, and policies, and hosting the secretariats for major international environmental agreements (e.g., the Convention on Biological Diversity).
- Advocacy and Coordination: Leading global campaigns and initiatives and coordinating the environmental work across the UN system.
Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, UNEP is the essential voice for our planet, working with governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Source: https://www.unep.org/who-we-are/about-us and AI generated content
