UNEP Seeks Support to Tackle Global Environmental Challenges

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The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is seeking increased support from Member States to tackle pressing global environmental challenges through science, data, and policy support. UNEP's resolve to address environmental crises has grown stronger amidst a backdrop of shifting geopolitical alignments, technological advances, and growing competition for critical resources. The agency is taking steps to adapt and strengthen its strategic regional presence while uplifting its normative work and coordination functions.

Why it matters

Environmental damage and associated economic disruption can have far-reaching consequences, contributing to issues like forced migration, displacement, and food shortages. As the UN's leading global authority on the environment, UNEP plays a crucial role in supporting Member States to address these complex, cross-border challenges.

The details

UNEP is working to deliver on new mandates from Member States, including addressing the sustainable use of AI, combating wildfires, and ensuring the responsible supply of critical energy transition minerals. The agency is also deeply engaged in the UN80 reform initiative, seeking to strengthen the environmental dimension of the Sustainable Development Goals through improved coordination, science-based policymaking, and enhanced implementation support.

• In December 2022, at the seventh session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) in Nairobi, Member States adopted UNEP's forward-looking Medium-Term Strategy and handed down new mandates.
• The UN80 reform initiative is currently underway, with UNEP playing a key role in leading Work Package 27 to assess current arrangements and propose structural changes and program realignments on environmental issues.
• In 2026, UNEP will support several crucial gatherings, including the COPs of the Rio Trio (climate, biodiversity, and desertification), the Convention on Migratory Species, the UN Water Conference, and the first International Conference of the Global Framework on Chemicals.

What’s next

UNEP will continue engaging with the Committee of Permanent Representatives in Nairobi and is ready to do likewise in New York as the UN80 reform initiative progresses. The agency will also support the upcoming COPs and other key environmental gatherings in 2026.