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.
16 September is World Ozone Day. Thanks to international cooperation, this year we celebrate 35 years of the Vienna Convention and 35 years of global ozone layer protection.
16 September is World Ozone Day. The theme for 2020 is Ozone for life: 35 years of ozone layer protection. It marks 35 years of the Vienna Convention.
September 7, 2020 marks the world's first International Day of Clean Air for blue skies – whose observance is facilitated by the UN Environment Progamme (UNEP). Each year, this day will raise public awareness on air pollution and encourage actions to improve air quality. The Republic of Korea led global efforts to create this occasion.
On 7 September 2020, for the first time ever, the world will join together to mark the UN's International Day of Clean Air for blue skies. The theme for 2020 is "Clean Air for All".
On 7 September 2020, for the first time ever, the world will join together to mark the UN's International Day of Clean Air for blue skies. The theme for 2020 is "Clean Air for All".
In the lead up to World Environment Day, UNEP welcomes bold commitments for a sustainable future. Here’s what some leaders said at the recent virtual Petersberg Climate Dialogue.
Watch our short animations for more information.
