All publications and documents

Freshwater scarcity is increasingly perceived as a global systemic risk. Previous global water scarcity assessments, measuring water scarcity annually, have underestimated experienced water scarcity by failing to capture the seasonal fluctuations in water consumption and availability. We assess blue water scarcity globally at a high spatial resolution on a monthly basis. We find that two-thirds…

Today's society becomes ever more rapidly vulnerable to natural disasters due to the concentration of populations in mega-cities. Additionally, changes in the global environment threaten us with the possibility of severe typhoons, rising sea levels, droughts, among others. Considering these rapid changes of ambient conditions, vulnerability has increased due to growing urban…

A new study by University of Queensland and WCS shows a dramatic global mismatch between nations producing the most greenhouse gases and the ones most vulnerable to the effects of climate change. The study shows that the highest emitting countries are ironically the least vulnerable to climate change effects such as increased frequency of natural disasters, changing habitats, human health…

Environmental degradation, caused by climate change and land degradation, is a threat multiplier because of its huge impact on human security. It increases the conflict potential which is based on three conflict constellations: water scarcity; loss of land; and food insecurity. These conflict constellations can cause an increase of migration and deteriorate the governance of states and regional…

This global assessment of sand and dust storms (SDS) has been prepared by UNEP in partnership with WMO and UNCCD, in response to calls for action on SDS. The assessment aims to synthesise the latest knowledge on the science and policy of SDS and apply this knowledge to identify elements of a comprehensive strategy for SDS mitigation at the local, regional and global levels. The report is…

This booklet aims to introduce the reader to the importance of preserving our soil resources by attending to the reciprocal relationship between soils and pulses. The ecosystem services provided by soil are presented together with the role of pulses in improving soil health, adapting to and mitigating climate change, and ultimately contributing to food security and nutrition. The book also…