United Nations Environment Programme

United Nations Environment Programme

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is a program of the United Nations that coordinates the organization's environmental activities and assists developing countries in implementing environmentally sound policies and practices. It was established in 1972 following the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment (Stockholm Conference).

History

The UNEP was created as a result of the United Nations Conference on the Human Environment in June 1972. The conference, which was the first major international gathering on environmental issues, led to the establishment of the UNEP as the environmental conscience of the United Nations system.

Structure and Function

The UNEP is headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, and has six regional offices and various country offices. It is led by an Executive Director, who is appointed by the United Nations Secretary-General.

The UNEP's activities cover a wide range of issues, from the atmosphere and terrestrial ecosystems, the promotion of environmental science and information, to an early warning and emergency response capacity to deal with environmental disasters and emergencies.

Programmes and Initiatives

The UNEP has initiated a number of programmes and initiatives to tackle environmental challenges. These include the Climate Change Programme, Disaster and Conflicts Programme, Ecosystem Management Programme, Environmental Governance Programme, Chemicals and Waste Programme, and the Resource Efficiency Programme.

Impact and Criticism

The UNEP has been praised for its work in raising environmental awareness and coordinating environmental activities within the United Nations system. However, it has also faced criticism for its perceived lack of effectiveness and for its reliance on voluntary contributions, which can lead to funding instability.

See Also

• United Nations Development Programme
• United Nations Industrial Development Organization
• World Environment Day
• Earth Summit