Why critical minerals will make or break our planet UN Environment Programme 2026-09-22 | Why critical minerals will make or break our planet
Call for contributors the Global Environment Outlook #GEO7 UN Environment Programme 2024-10-02 | 🌍 Call for Contributors: GEO-7 Assessment 🌍Are you ready to apply your scientific expertise to tackle the world’s greatest environmental challenges? The Global Environment Outlook (GEO-7) offers an in-depth, integrated assessment of the key drivers of environmental change—from climate to biodiversity, pollution, and land degradation.This report examines the effectiveness of policy responses and explores potential pathways for achieving sustainable futures by 2050. We are transforming:Economic SystemsTowards CircularityFood SystemsEnergy SystemsEnvironmental SystemsBut this transformation can only be achieved through robust science and the brilliant minds behind it. We are seeking scientific reviewers to help ensure the integrity and impact of GEO-7.Join over 250 prestigious scientists shaping global policy and addressing the Triple Planetary Crisis. Volunteer your time, share your knowledge, and make a lasting impact.🌿 Be a part of the solution. 🌿unep.org/events/working-group/call-nomination-reviewers-geo-7-second-order-draft-and-summary-policymakers#GlobalEnvironmentOutlook #GEO7 #Sustainability #EnvironmentalScience #TriplePlanetaryCrisis #ClimateAction #Biodiversity #Pollution #LandDegradation #CircularEconomy
UNEP ED opening remarks to the 5th International Day of Awareness of Food Loss & Waste UN Environment Programme 2024-10-01 | The world wastes about one-fifth of the food available to consumers, and over a billion meals are wasted at household level every day. This is equivalent to 1.3 meals every day for each person who goes hungry. So food waste and loss also use valuable land and water and chemicals, and causes up to ten percent of the greenhouse gas emissions in the world. To address these challenges, every nation can use UNEP's food waste index to track progress. The second edition of UNEP's Food Waste Index Report contains double the data points. The United Nations General Assembly designated 29 September as the International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste (IDAFLW). The day is co-convened by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The IDAFLW will be observed for the fifth time on 27 September 2024. The IDAFLW will highlight the critical need for financing, political support and technical assistance to bolster efforts to reduce food loss and waste, contribute to achieving climate goals and advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Meet the Super Pollutants UN Environment Programme 2024-09-26 | Ugly, annoying, destructive. Super pollutants are running wild everywhere you look but can’t see. Warming the planet and wreaking havoc on our health in the process, they’re responsible for 45% of global warming to date.With your help, we can curb them. Learn more:unep.org/interactives/super-pollutants
Invest in #CleanAirNow for a healthier tomorrow UN Environment Programme 2024-09-12 | Our first contact with the world. What we inhale 12 times a minute. It keeps us alive or poisons us.99% of us breathe polluted air. We can't take it anymore.Air pollution is the biggest environmental health risk of our time. It also exacerbates climate change, causes economic losses, and reduces agricultural productivity.It knows no borders – everyone has a responsibility to protect our atmosphere and ensure healthy air for all. By collaborating across borders, sectors, and silos, we can reduce air pollution through collective investments of time, resources and efforts.This International Day of Clean Air for blue skies, we call upon everyone—from governments and corporations to civil society and individuals—to Invest in #CleanAirNow. By tackling air pollution proactively, we can achieve transformative change and secure healthy air for all.www.cleanairblueskies.org
The Caribbean island nation at the forefront of the climate litigation push #climateaction UN Environment Programme 2024-09-10 | Countries most affected by climate change – as well as citizens and non-profit groups – are increasingly turning to courts to compel governments and fossil fuel producers to address the climate crisis.One Caribbean island nation, Antigua and Barbuda, is at the forefront of this push. It has backed a UN General Assembly resolution requesting the International Court of Justice to weigh in on the obligations of states in respect of climate change.Later this year, advisory opinions are set to be delivered by the Inter-American Court of Human Rights and the International Court of Justice in the case backed by Antigua and Barbuda.This week’s regional climate forum (NDCs 3.0 Regional Forum) for Latin America and the Caribbean, which takes place in Bogotá, Colombia, and will see countries and other stakeholders examine ways in which they enhance ambition in their future Nationally Determined Contributions.This video explains how climate change is affecting Antigua and Barbuda and why the country is using the international court and tribunal system to gain redress.Read the story: unep.org/news-and-stories/story/why-string-court-victories-raising-hopes-climate-advocates
UNEP Goodwill Ambassador Chef Leyla urges a clean cooking transformation #cleanairnow UN Environment Programme 2024-09-06 | Around 2.3 billion people, nearly one-third of the global population, still rely on open fires fueled by charcoal, biomass, and kerosene for cooking. These traditional methods produce harmful indoor air pollution and account for over 50% of black carbon emissions worldwide. In 2020 alone, household air pollution was responsible for approximately 3.2 million deaths, including over 237,000 children under the age of five.Women and children in low- and middle-income countries are disproportionately affected, as they spend more time exposed to harmful smoke from stoves and fuels. For many women, household pollution remains one of the largest environmental health risks they face.However, there is hope. Across the globe, governments, individuals, and entrepreneurs are driving the clean cooking transformation. The Climate and Clean Air Coalition, hosted by UNEP, is working with governments to scale up clean cooking solutions and improve air quality.Together, we can make a difference. Let’s advocate for cleaner, safer cooking practices for all.#CleanAirNow #CleanCooking #AirPollution #EnvironmentalHealth #UNEP #ClimateAction
Invest in #CleanAirNow for a healthier tomorrow UN Environment Programme 2024-09-06 | Our first contact with the world. What we inhale 12 times a minute. It keeps us alive or poisons us.99% of us breathe polluted air. We can't take it anymore.Air pollution is the biggest environmental health risk of our time. It also exacerbates climate change, causes economic losses, and reduces agricultural productivity.It knows no borders – everyone has a responsibility to protect our atmosphere and ensure healthy air for all. By collaborating across borders, sectors, and silos, we can reduce air pollution through collective investments of time, resources and efforts.This International Day of Clean Air for blue skies, we call upon everyone—from governments and corporations to civil society and individuals—to Invest in #CleanAirNow. By tackling air pollution proactively, we can achieve transformative change and secure healthy air for all.www.cleanairblueskies.org
A Clean Air for blue skies day message from Inger Andersen, UNEP Executive Director UN Environment Programme 2024-09-04 | International Day of Clean Air for blue skies, was designated 7 September by the United Nations General Assembly in 2019.This follows the international community’s increasing interest in clean air and emphasises the need to make further efforts to improve air quality to protect human health.www.cleanairblueskies.org
Why dirty air costing us trillions every year #CleanAirNow UN Environment Programme 2024-08-29 | Air pollution costs the global economy a staggering $8.1 trillion every year—that's 6.1% of the world's GDP, vanishing into thin air. To put it into perspective, that's like losing the entire annual economic output of Germany and Japan combined, with nothing to show for it but polluted skies and rising health issues.Where does this number come from? It’s a mix of skyrocketing healthcare costs, lost productivity, and damaged crops. Millions suffer from illnesses like asthma and heart disease due to dirty air, driving up medical expenses. Businesses lose out when employees are too sick to work, slowing down economies. Reducing air pollution by just 20% could boost productivity by 33% and protect millions of tonnes of crops, directly impacting food security.And let’s not forget the link between air pollution and climate change—a dangerous cycle that threatens our planet's future.So, what’s the solution? Investment. We need stricter air quality standards, cleaner technologies, and a commitment to reducing emissions. It’s not just about saving money—it’s about creating healthier communities and a stronger economy for everyone. The cost of ignoring this problem? It's far too high.To learn more about the impact of air pollution and what we can do to make a difference, visit:www.cleanairblueskies.org#CleanAirDay2024 #AirPollution #ClimateAction
RESTORE Season 2: Meet the 2024 World Restoration Flagships UN Environment Programme 2024-08-19 | With the World Restoration Flagship award, the UN is honouring the planet’s most ambitious, successful, and inspiring examples of large-scale ecosystem restoration. RESTORE Season 2 will take viewers on a journey through the world’s frontiers of hope: From the last place where rhinos, elephants, tigers, and humans co-exist to the Indus River Basin and the peaks of the high Andes.Learn how we can protect the nature we have left, and revive what has been lost: decadeonrestoration.org/restore-films-frontiers-hope
How the Puyanawa people of Acre are protecting Brazils forests #climateaction UN Environment Programme 2024-08-09 | Every year, the world loses enough forest cover to fill Portugal, with much of that deforestation happening in 20 tropical countries, including Brazil. Puyanawa is the chief of the Puyanawa Indigenous Peoples, whose traditional territory had for generations been diced up and deforested, including by the notoriously brutal rubber barons of the colonial era. But in recent years, the Puyanawa have regained control over their lands, largely ending the clear cutting ravaging much of the Amazon. Instead, the Puyanawa have turned to farming, using traditional practices, like dotting their fields with hardwood trees, to ease the burden on the land.
How Article 6 of the Paris Agreement drives climate action UN Environment Programme 2024-07-22 | Confused about Article 6 of the Paris Agreement? Wondering how it can help deliver real action on climate change? Article 6 allows countries to work together to achieve their climate goals, unlocking international cooperation, promotes financial support for developing nations, and creates opportunities for tackling climate change on a global scale. And much of this is achieved through carbon markets. Carbon markets are carbon pricing mechanisms enabling governments and non-state actors to trade greenhouse gas emission credits. The aim of carbon markets in Article 6 is to achieve climate targets and implement climate actions cost effectively.Read more: unep.org/topics/climate-action/climate-finance/carbon-markets
Nationally Determined Contributions - A road map for countries on climate action UN Environment Programme 2024-07-18 | The Paris Agreement empowers countries to collectively limit global temperature increases to 1.5°C and enhance climate resilience, and ensures financial flows are consistent with these goals. This is to be achieved through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which are targets, policies and measures that Parties to the PA undertake to address climate change mitigation and adaptation. NDC implementation begins with countries outlining detailed implementation plans, which define how to achieve their targets, establish systems to track progress, and develop financing strategies. Countries should communicate enhanced or reviewed NDCs every five years, to ensure that the 1.5°C is achieved. NDCs are make or break for keeping climate change to 1.5°C. NDCs are the only multilaterally agreed opportunity to ensure a stable climate and a healthy environment. Every fraction of a degree matters.
Plastics #climatechange #stopplasticpollution #healthyenvironments UN Environment Programme 2024-07-08 | In a world hungry for progress, plastic emerged as the hero – lightweight, versatile, and seemingly limitless. From revolutionising industries to simplifying daily life, it promised convenience and innovation. But its story took a darker turn. #shorts
Azerbaijan named official World Environment Day host country in 2026 UN Environment Programme 2024-06-28 | Baku, 27 June 2024 – The Republic of Azerbaijan will host World Environment Day 2026, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the Republic of Azerbaijan announced today in the capital, Baku, during an official visit by the Executive Director of UNEP, Inger Andersen.World Environment Day, which Baku will host on 5 June 2026, is the largest global platform for environmental engagement and action. Established by the UN General Assembly in 1972, the Day inspires and is celebrated by millions of people across the world, who participate in online and in-person activities and events around the world aimed at accelerating environmental progress for people and planet. With Azerbaijan as hosts, World Environment Day 2026 will focus on climate change.For more, visit: unep.org/news-and-stories/press-release/republic-azerbaijan-host-world-environment-day-2026
Were looking for the next generation of environmental leaders. Is that you? UN Environment Programme 2024-06-26 | The Young Talent Pipeline is a talent initiative of UNEP in partnership with UN Volunteers that is open to people aged between 27 to 33 with a minimum of three years of work experience in specialized areas. From water specialists helping to restore ecosystems, mobility specialists decarbonizing transport systems to critical mineral experts working on the energy transition, we want to give the next generation of environmental leaders the opportunity to work alongside some of the best environmental voices to shape the future of their respective fields. For more, visit: unv.org/news/unep-unv-young-talent-pipeline-begins-its-second-phase
Were looking for the next generation of environmental leaders. Is that you? UN Environment Programme 2024-06-25 | The Young Talent Pipeline is a talent initiative of UNEP in partnership with UN Volunteers that is open to people aged between 27 to 33 with a minimum of three years of work experience in specialized areas. From water specialists helping to restore ecosystems, mobility specialists decarbonizing transport systems to critical mineral experts working on the energy transition, we want to give the next generation of environmental leaders the opportunity to work alongside some of the best environmental voices to shape the future of their respective fields. For more, visit: unv.org/news/unep-unv-young-talent-pipeline-begins-its-second-phase
The time is now to raise forest-based targets in national climate action plans UN Environment Programme 2024-06-10 | Deforestation rates are rising, and current pledges to reduce deforestation and to financially support this transition from developed countries, are insufficient to halt and reverse deforestation by 2030. Forest play a key role in achieving the Paris Agreement on climate change, as they have the potential to contribute one-third of the emissions reductions required to close the 2030 mitigation gap. The latest report from the UN-REDD programme however reveals that Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) from the twenty countries with the highest emissions from tropical deforestation are lacking. Only eight countries include explicit, quantified targets to reduce deforestation. While 11 of the NDCs contain quantified targets relating to afforestation and, reforestation, mitigating climate change requires reducing deforestation first, as it takes many years to capture the carbon lost through deforesting an equivalent area through afforestation and restoration. The report provides recommendations to strengthen and enhance forest-based targets in NDCs and other policies and scale up immediate and substantive financial and technical support for forest-rich countries. Find out more: unep.org/resources/report/raising-ambition-accelerating-action-towards-enhanced-nationally-determined
World Oceans Day: Protecting Our Blue Planet for Future Generations UN Environment Programme 2024-06-10 | This #WorldOceansDay, we celebrate the vital role the ocean plays in sustaining life on Earth. From regulating our climate to providing food and livelihoods, our oceans are truly the lifeblood of our planet. The ocean is the largest habitat on Earth, home to an estimated one million species and responsible for absorbing 30% of CO2 emissions. It's crucial for our climate, biodiversity, and food security, with 3 billion people relying on the ocean as their primary source of protein.Protecting ocean biodiversity is key to halting and reversing nature loss by 2030, as outlined in The #BiodiversityPlan.This World Oceans Day, let's commit to safeguarding our oceans and join the #SaveOurOcean movement. Together, we can protect and restore our blue planet for future generations.
World Environment Day 2024 unites millions around the globe for land restoration UN Environment Programme 2024-06-07 | World Environment Day 2024 registered a record-breaking number of events – 3657 and rising at the time of launch – held by governments, cities, civil society, universities and schools, and businesses spanning the globe. Activities ranged from high-level events in Riyadh to week-long festivities in South America, from zoo celebrations in Europe and Asia to soil restoration labs for children in Africa, from posters dotting transport hubs to the largest mural in North America, and from film screenings to video messages from celebrities and space agency NASA. Tens of millions of people joined the online global conversation, with #WorldEnvironmentDay trending above blockbuster movies and global politics on social media, amplifying the rallies to restore the land that humanity and countless other species depend on for survival. But it doesn't stop here. Answer the call to join #GenerationRestoration and play your part for people and planet.http://www.worldenvironmentday.global
World Environment Day 2024 unites tens of millions around the globe for land restoration UN Environment Programme 2024-06-07 | World Environment Day 2024 registered a record-breaking number of events – 3657 and rising at the time of launch – held by governments, cities, civil society, universities and schools, and businesses spanning the globe. Activities ranged from high-level events in Riyadh to week-long festivities in South America, from zoo celebrations in Europe and Asia to soil restoration labs for children in Africa, from posters dotting transport hubs to the largest mural in North America, and from film screenings to video messages from celebrities and space agency NASA. Tens of millions of people joined the online global conversation, with #WorldEnvironmentDay trending above blockbuster movies and global politics on social media, amplifying the rallies to restore the land that humanity and countless other species depend on for survival. But it doesn't stop here. Answer the call to join #GenerationRestoration and play your part for people and planet.http://www.worldenvironmentday.global
Largest street art in North America unveiled in celebration of World Environment Day UN Environment Programme 2024-06-06 | Two massive pieces of artwork now grace a revitalized Seattle waterfront in celebration of World Environment Day and of the City of Seattle as a “role model city” selected by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), in recognition of its urban restoration efforts. Curated by the non-profit, Street Art for Mankind (SAM), the murals are part of a global series in collaboration with UNEP and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), to spark energy and dialogue among stakeholders from all sectors in support of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, a global effort to halt and restore biodiversity to prevent catastrophic climate change by 2030.For more, visit http://www.worldenvironmentday.globalUrban Ecosystem Restoration mural by Victor Ash curated by Street Art for MankindFacebook: @ victorashartist @streetartmankindInstagram: @ victor.ash.studio @streetartmankindTwitter: @ Victor__Ash @streetartmkind Ocean Ecosystem Restoration mural by Adry del Rocio curated by Street Art forMankindFacebook: @adrydelrocio @streetartmankind Instagram: @adrydelrocio @streetartmankindTwitter: @adrydelrocio @streetartmkindVideo Credit:@dr_derekfor @streetartmankind
Largest street art in North America unveiled in celebration of World Environment Day UN Environment Programme 2024-06-06 | Two massive pieces of artwork now grace a revitalized Seattle waterfront in celebration of World Environment Day and of the City of Seattle as a “role model city” selected by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), in recognition of its urban restoration efforts. Curated by the non-profit, Street Art for Mankind (SAM), the murals are part of a global series in collaboration with UNEP and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), to spark energy and dialogue among stakeholders from all sectors in support of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, a global effort to halt and restore biodiversity to prevent catastrophic climate change by 2030.For more, visit http://www.worldenvironmentday.globalUrban Ecosystem Restoration mural by Victor Ash curated by Street Art for MankindFacebook: @ victorashartist @streetartmankindInstagram: @ victor.ash.studio @streetartmankindTwitter: @ Victor__Ash @streetartmkind Ocean Ecosystem Restoration mural by Adry del Rocio curated by Street Art forMankindFacebook: @adrydelrocio @streetartmankind Instagram: @adrydelrocio @streetartmankindTwitter: @adrydelrocio @streetartmkindVideo Credit:@dr_derekfor @streetartmankind
Land is life. We must protect it. UN Environment Programme 2024-06-05 | Everyone is stepping up this #WorldEnvironmentDay. People across the world are calling for greater action to restore our lands, increase drought resilience & combat desertification.Why? Because land is life. And we must protect it.So join us. We are #GenerationRestoration.http://www.worldenvironmentday.global
A message from NASA for World Environment Day 👩🚀 🌎 🚀 UN Environment Programme 2024-06-05 | "As we explore further into the universe and search for habitable worlds to ponder the possibility of life elsewhere, we realize that our home world is a precious oasis in the cosmos," Watch as NASA astronaut, Dr Jessica Meir, shares a unique view on our home planet from space. Prior to becoming an astronaut, her career as a scientist focused on the physiology of animals in extreme environments. Meir most recently served as flight engineer on the International Space Station for Expedition 61 and 62, and participated in the first all-female spacewalks.Video courtesy of the United States National Aeronautics and Space Administration (www.nasa.gov)For more on World Environment Day, visit http://www.worldenvironmentday.global
How Pakistan is bringing a river back to life UN Environment Programme 2024-06-04 | Our soil is degrading, droughts increasing and once fertile land turning into desert (www.decadeonrestoration.org ). But there are glimmers of hope: In the last two decades, Pakistan has been hit by increasingly devastating floods. The Living Indus Initiative intends to change that – by restoring 25 million hectares of the country’s most important river – the Indus. Watch how the river – a cradle of civilizations – is now becoming a beacon of hope for the future. The Living Indus Initiative has been recognized as a World Restoration Flagship under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. These initiatives represent Earth’s frontiers of hope. Watch the RESTORE documentary series to learn about winning solutions. Explore how you can join #GenerationRestoration
Join the movement to restore our planet. Join #GenerationRestoration UN Environment Programme 2024-06-04 | The state of the planet affects us all – both now & in the future.While some like to play up differences on social media, the truth is that what decade you were born in, or however you identify yourself, doesn’t matter.Everyone alive right now is part of the first generation to experience the devastating effects of land degradation, drought, and climate change – and may be part of the last generation able to do something about it.We cannot turn back time, but we can grow forests, harvest rainwater, eat soil-friendly diets and fight climate change. We are the generation that can make peace with land.We are #GenerationRestoration! Join the movement, record your own video, and tag us in your to be potentially featured on our channel!http://www.worldenvironmentday.global
Rewilding the oryx, a #GenerationRestoration story UN Environment Programme 2024-06-03 | Saudi Arabia's iconic oryx antelope are a key part of an ambitious plan to rewild Saudi Arabia and the surrounding region. The effort includes replanting native trees and restoring vegetation cover, and along with a dramatic expansion of the country’s national park system. The push is designed in large part to prevent land degradation and creeping desertification in this country of 36 million people. “We cannot have sustainable development without environmental protection and land is at the heart of environmental protection,” says Osama Ibrahim Faqeeha, Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Environment. “It is the backbone of terrestrial biodiversity, vegetation cover and much more.” World Environment Day on 5 June is the biggest international day for the environment. This year, World Environment Day focuses on land restoration, desertification and drought resilience.For more, visit http://www.worldenvironmentday.global#GenerationRestoration #WorldEnvironmentDay
A World Environment Day message from Inger Andersen, UNEP Executive Director UN Environment Programme 2024-05-29 | Our land is our future. We must protect it. That's why this #WorldEnvironmentDay our focus is on how we restore our lands, build drought resilience & combat desertification. Join us on June 5 and be part of #GenerationRestoration.For more: http://www.worldenvironmentday.global
How to unlock the climate & food security potential of Africa’s drylands UN Environment Programme 2024-05-28 | Our soil is degrading, droughts increasing and once fertile land turning into desert (www.decadeonrestoration.org ). But there are glimmers of hope: 45% of Africa’s land is threatened by desertification. Yet there are solutions that bring hope – like Farmer-Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) and wild enclosures. Watch how communities are taking the lead in implementing them, as part of the Regreening Africa initiative. Regreening Africa has been recognized as a World Restoration Flagship under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. These initiatives represent Earth’s frontiers of hope. Watch the RESTORE documentary series to learn about winning solutions. Explore how you can join #GenerationRestoration
How 200,000+ farmers are restoring land – one hectare at a time UN Environment Programme 2024-05-21 | Our soil is degrading, droughts increasing and once fertile land turning into desert (www.decadeonrestoration.org ). But there are glimmers of hope: Sometimes the biggest global changes are driven by local communities and their leaders, Africa’s smallholder farmers, for example. Hundreds of thousands of people are now coming together to revive their lands – by tuning dried up monoculture plots into forest gardens. Learn how it works! African Farmers Restoring Food Systems, led by Trees for the Future, has been recognized as a World Restoration Flagship under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. These initiatives represent Earth’s frontiers of hope. Watch the RESTORE documentary series to learn about winning solutions. Explore how you can join #GenerationRestoration
Threads of Change: Systemic Transformation of the Textile Sector UN Environment Programme 2024-05-16 | A systems change and an accelerated transition towards a sustainable textile value chain are becoming increasingly necessary. Discussions at multilateral fora, including the United Nations Environment Assembly, bolster the importance of circular economy and just transition in such high-impact sectors as textiles. This event is an opportunity to reflect on i. Global textile sector priorities and needs that policies can help address, contributing to just transition and international processes and ii. Global policy solutions to leverage the textile sector to contribute to climate, nature and zero pollution goals and sustainable resource management. It starts with a high level opening and panel discussion that aims to inform the development of policy recommendations, followed by a Youth Forum on Sustainable Fashion Consumption. More information here: unep.org/events/conference/high-level-event-threads-change-systemic-transformation-textile-sector
How social forestry is protecting Indonesias forests, a #ClimateAction Story UN Environment Programme 2024-05-15 | For years, unsustainable practices, including logging and palm oil production have threatened Indonesia's forests. In the face of drained peatlands and the recurring nightmare of forest fires, unconventional solutions have created alternative sources of income for the communities that surround and protect Indonesia's forests.
Mediterranean countries step up the fight for forests UN Environment Programme 2024-05-14 | Our soil is degrading, droughts increasing and once fertile land turning into desert (www.decadeonrestoration.org ). But there are glimmers of hope:Across the Mediterranean region, droughts are on the rise and forests are burning. But there are also those who are stepping up to the challenge: from fighting fires to preventing them. Learn how they do it. Restoring Mediterranean Forests has been recognised as a World Restoration Flagship under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. These initiatives represent Earth’s frontiers of hope. Watch the RESTORE documentary series to learn about winning solutions. Explore how you can join #GenerationRestoration
Turning deserts green to tackle drought and land degradation UN Environment Programme 2024-05-09 | In places like Al Thadiq National Park - known for its sweeping valleys and spanning 600 square kilometres - nature-based solutions are helping to restore degraded land, return wildlife, and combat drought and desertification.Restoring the park is part of Saudi Arabia’s wider plan to regreen huge swathes of desert at home and beyond its borders to tackle the issues of drought, desertification, and land degradation threatening the MENA region.Globally, More than two billion hectares of the world’s land is degraded, affecting half of the world's population. Without urgent action to rejuvenate and safeguard the ground, 95 percent of all land will be degraded by 2050.For more, visit: http://www.worldenvironmentday.global#GenerationRestoration
Reviving one of the last places where tigers, rhinos, elephants coexist UN Environment Programme 2024-05-07 | Our soil is degrading, droughts increasing and once fertile land turning into desert (www.decadeonrestoration.org ). But there are glimmers of hope: Nepal’s Terai Arc Landscape is one of the last places where tigers, elephants, rhinos, and humans co-exist. In recent years, the country’s tiger population has tripled – but attacks were on the rise. Learn how the region found a new strategy to balance nature and human development. The Terai Arc Landscape has been recognized as a World Restoration Flagship under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. These initiatives represent Earth’s frontiers of hope. Watch the RESTORE documentary series to learn about winning solutions. Explore how you can join #GenerationRestoration
INC-4 on plastic pollution (part 5) UN Environment Programme 2024-04-30 | Plenary continues at the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment (INC-4) taking place from 23-29 April 2024 at the Shaw Centre in Ottawa, Canada.In March 2022, at the resumed fifth session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5.2), a historic resolution was adopted to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment. The resolution (5/14) requested the Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) to convene an Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to develop "the instrument," which is to be based on a comprehensive approach that addresses the full life cycle of plastic, including its production, design, and disposal. The INC began its work during the second half of 2022, with the ambition to complete the negotiations by the end of 2024. The first session of the INC (INC-1) took place in Punta del Este, Uruguay from 28 November to 2 December 2022, followed by a second session (INC-2) from 29 May to 2 June 2023 in Paris, France, and a third session (INC-3) from 13 to 19 November 2023 in Nairobi, Kenya. The fourth session (INC-4) will take place from 23 to 29 April 2024 in Ottawa, Canada. Related sites and documents:More information: unep.org/inc-plastic-pollution/session-4
20 years after tsunami, Sri Lanka celebrates big wins in mangrove restoration UN Environment Programme 2024-04-30 | Our soil is degrading, droughts increasing and once fertile land turning into desert (www.decadeonrestoration.org ). But there are glimmers of hope: In 2004, Sri Lanka was hit by a devastating tsunami. Coastal areas with mangrove trees were more protected – so mass planting started. And failed. Watch how the country learned, adapted, and is finding success where land meets the ocean.Natural Mangrove Regeneration in Sri Lanka has been recognized as a World Restoration Flagship under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. These initiatives represent Earth’s frontiers of hope. Watch the RESTORE documentary series to learn about winning solutions. Explore how you can join #GenerationRestoration
World Environment Day 2024: will you join Generation Restoration? UN Environment Programme 2024-04-28 | World Environment Day on 5th June is the biggest international day for the environment each year. Led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the day brings together millions of people in government, business, civil society, schools and celebrities engaging online and in-person to raise awareness and influence environmental action. In 2024, World Environment Day focuses on restoring land, halting desertification and building drought resilience. Up to 40 per cent of the world’s land is already degraded, while an estimated 3.2 billion people worldwide are negatively impacted by desertification, and more than three-quarters of the world’s population is expected to be affected by droughts by 2050. The message is clear, we must restore ecosystems to tackle climate change, save species from extinction and secure our future.Will you join #GenerationRestoration? For more, visit: http://www.worldenvironmentday.global
Will you join Generation Restoration? World Environment Day 2024 UN Environment Programme 2024-04-28 | World Environment Day on 5th June is the biggest international day for the environment each year. Led by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the day brings together millions of people in government, business, civil society, schools and celebrities engaging online and in-person to raise awareness and influence environmental action. In 2024, World Environment Day focuses on restoring land, halting desertification and building drought resilience. Up to 40 per cent of the world’s land is already degraded, while an estimated 3.2 billion people worldwide are negatively impacted by desertification, and more than three-quarters of the world’s population is expected to be affected by droughts by 2050. The message is clear, we must restore ecosystems to tackle climate change, save species from extinction and secure our future.Will you join #GenerationRestoration? For more, visit: www.worldenvironmentday.global
Communities unite to save high Andean forests, for water & climate UN Environment Programme 2024-04-23 | Our soil is degrading, droughts increasing and once fertile land is turning into desert (www.decadeonrestoration.org ). But there are glimmers of hope: In the high Andes of Latin America, hundreds of communities are uniting across five countries to secure water sources and mitigate climate change. Learn how they do it – and why an old tree is a secret weapon in their fight. Acción Andina has been recognized as a World Restoration Flagship under the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration. These initiatives represent Earth’s frontiers of hope. Watch the RESTORE documentary series to learn about winning solutions. Explore how you can join #GenerationRestoration
Nominations open for 2024 Champions of the Earth UN Environment Programme 2024-04-23 | UNEP is seeking nominations for its annual Champions of the Earth award – the UN’s highest environmental honour – to recognize outstanding leaders from government, civil society, and the private sector developing and implementing innovative and sustainable solutions and policies to restore land, enhance drought resilience, and combat desertification. Nominations are open until 12 May 2024. Nominate your Champions of the Earth here: unep.org/championsofearth/how-we-find-our-champions #EarthChamps
Nominate your champion for the UNs highest environmental honour UN Environment Programme 2024-04-23 | As land degradation affects 40% of the global population, the urgency for sustainable solutions has never been greater.UNEP's Champions of the Earth award, the @unitednations highest environmental honour, celebrates leaders or innovators who are reversing the damage. This year, we're looking for heroes in land restoration, drought resilience, or desertification.This award seeks nominations for individuals and organizations that are pioneers in developing and implementing effective environmental strategies. If you know leaders or innovators making transformative impacts, nominate them for the #EarthChamps 2024 until May 5.For more, visit: unep.org/championsofearth
Voices from UNEA6: Hopes, Fears, and Actions for Earth’s Future UN Environment Programme 2024-04-22 | When asked, hopes and fears for the future of humanity and our only home, the planet, are often remarkably similar.Here's some of what #UNEA6 attendees told @kairosfutura when they took "A seat at the table" in Nairobi at the @UnitedNations Environment Assembly meetings earlier this year in Nairobi.Share your own hopes and fears & take action on #EarthDay.Found out more: unep.org/news-and-stories/story/five-ways-you-can-help-save-environment-mother-earth-day
INC-4: Conversation with Observers UN Environment Programme 2024-04-21 | UNEP Executive Director, INC Chair and INC Executive Secretary Conversation with Observers at the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment (INC-4) taking place from 23-29 April 2024 at the Shaw Centre, Ottawa, Canada.More information: unep.org/inc-plastic-pollution/session-4In March 2022, at the resumed fifth session of the UN Environment Assembly (UNEA-5.2), a historic resolution was adopted to develop an international legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment. The resolution (5/14) requested the Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) to convene an Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) to develop "the instrument," which is to be based on a comprehensive approach that addresses the full life cycle of plastic, including its production, design, and disposal. The INC began its work during the second half of 2022, with the ambition to complete the negotiations by the end of 2024. The first session of the INC (INC-1) took place in Punta del Este, Uruguay from 28 November to 2 December 2022, followed by a second session (INC-2) from 29 May to 2 June 2023 in Paris, France, and a third session (INC-3) from 13 to 19 November 2023 in Nairobi, Kenya. The fourth session (INC-4) will take place from 23 to 29 April 2024 in Ottawa, Canada. Related sites and documents:More information: unep.org/inc-plastic-pollution/session-4
Plastic - not so fantastic UN Environment Programme 2024-04-15 | From fantastic to tragic - plastic's story is unfolding in a way never anticipated. What was once convenient, is now choking the planet. Each year, millions of tonnes of plastic waste invade the ecosystems that nurture life on Earth. This isn't the end of the story, though. A different ending is possible: it starts with cutting out unnecessary plastic products and redesigning products so that they can be easily reused, repaired, repurposed and recycled. Switching to non-plastic alternatives. Strengthening environmentally sound waste management systems.It's time to act and innovate to #BeatPlasticPollution.As the world works on a #PlasticsTreaty, head to http://www.unep.org/beatplasticpollution to learn more and get involved.
Its time to #beatplasticpollution UN Environment Programme 2024-04-12 | Since the 1950s, plastic has become so ubiquitous that it's now used in everything from children’s toys and medical equipment to beauty products and airplanes. And while plastic was once hailed as a miracle product, we now know the damage plastic pollution does to ecosystems, the climate, human health and the economy.Central to ending plastic pollution is the elimination of unnecessary plastic, the redesign of products – including packaging – so they can be more easily reused, repaired and recycled, and switching to non-plastic substitutes that help protect the environment, human health, and our economy. So, it's time to write a new story and #beatplasticpollution!Join us and take action: http://www.unep.org/beatplasticpollution
The Food Waste Index the essential action needed towards reducing #Foodwaste UN Environment Programme 2024-03-27 | To catalyse essential action towards reducing food waste and achieving SDG 12.3, it's imperative to grasp the extent of food waste. Measuring food waste allows countries to comprehend the magnitude of the issue, thereby revealing the size of the opportunity, while establishing a baseline for tracking progress. The Food Waste Index Report 2021 marked a pivotal moment in understanding global food waste across retail, food service, and household sectors. It unveiled a greater availability of food waste data than anticipated, particularly at the household level, and revealed that per capita household food waste generation was more consistent worldwide than previously thought.The Food Waste Index Report 2024 builds upon its predecessor in three key ways: Firstly, it incorporates vastly expanded data points from around the world, providing a significantly more robust global and national estimates, detailed in Chapter 2 of the main report. Secondly, it expands on the SDG 12.3 food waste measurement methodology introduced in the 2021 report, offering enhanced guidance on measurement across retail, food service, and household sectors. Learn more here: unep.org/resources/publication/food-waste-index-report-2024
#ZeroWasteDay and the importance of global action on waste management UN Environment Programme 2024-03-27 | The International Day of Zero Waste highlights both the importance of bolstering waste management globally and the need to promote sustainable consumption and production patterns. Every year, humanity generates between 2.1 billion and 2.3 billion tonnes of municipal solid waste. Some 2.7 billion people lack access to waste collection, 2 billion of whom live in rural areas. Waste pollution significantly threatens human well-being, economic prosperity, and the triple planetary crisis of climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution. Without urgent action, annual municipal solid waste generation will hit 3.8 billion tonnes by 2050. Zero-waste initiatives can foster sound waste management and minimize and prevent waste generation. To #BeatWastePollution, we must bolster waste management while improving resource recovery and substantially reducing waste generation. Prevention, reduction, reuse, repurposing and recycling are critical to this endeavour.The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and UN Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) facilitate the observance of the Day. All Member States, organizations of the United Nations system and relevant stakeholders are encouraged to implement zero-waste initiatives at local, regional, subnational and national levels. Learn more: unep.org/events/un-day/international-day-zero-waste-2024
