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. Conversely, our environmental crises can result in violations of these and other human rights.
UN Environment Programme and The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights have issued Key Messages that highlight the human rights obligations and responsibilities of governments and other duty-bearers, such as businesses, to address biodiversity and habitat loss, prevent and remedy the harmful effects of hazardous substances, and respond to the COVID-19 crisis. These resources are available in all UN languages.
These resources fall under and UNEP's and OHCHR's joint work to promote, protect and respect the human right to a healthy environment.
