Five decades ago in an opera house in Stockholm Sweden, world leaders opened discussions that would lead to the creation of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Since that meeting on 5 June 1972, UNEP has become the world's leading advocate for nature, using science, diplomacy and public outreach to counter a range of threats, from pollution to climate change.
San José (Costa Rica), 28 January 2022 - Environmental authorities of Latin America and the Caribbean observed today the 40th anniversary of the Forum of Ministers of Environment of the region with a special session to accelerate multilateral action in the face of the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution and waste crisis.
This year has been a watershed in the human rights movement, with the right to a healthy environment finally being recognized. Ahead of Human Rights Day on 10 December, we take a look back at that historical moment by looking at this story originally published in October 2021.
The right to water and sanitation is recognized by the United Nations as essential to the realisation of all human rights. Water is vital for our survival and well-being. Claim your right to sufficient, safe, acceptable, accessible and affordable water for you and others.
All types of waste and pollution may impact on human rights. For instance, from their manufacturing to use, trade and disposal, hazardous waste can have adverse impacts on human health and ecosystems - infringing the rights of both. Exercise your rights and help address these adverse impacts.
The ocean is home to marine life and to our food. It supports our livelihoods, cultures and economies. Marine pollution damages these aspects of our lives, and infringes on the human rights attached to them. Ensure your rights regarding oceans are being promoted, protected and respected.
Land is a cross-cutting issue that impacts directly on the enjoyment of a number of human rights.
The exposure of people to toxic and harmful substances without their prior informed consent is a human rights issue. Toxic chemicals affect our rights to health, life, food, adequate standard of living and more. Duty-bearers should ensure a “non-toxic environment” for present and future generations.
The right to breathe clean air is one of the components of the right to a healthy environment. Air pollution negatively impacts on the enjoyment of many human rights, in particular the right to life and the right to health, especially in relation to vulnerable groups.
A safe, clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is integral to the full enjoyment of a wide range of human rights, including the rights to life, health, food, water, and sanitation. Without a healthy environment, we are unable to fulfil our aspirations or even live at a level commensurate with minimum standards of human dignity. At the same time, protecting human rights helps to protect the environment.
