The United Nations

The United Nations is an international organization founded in 1945. Currently made up of 193 member states. 

It is the one place on Earth where all the world’s nations can gather together, discuss common problems, and find shared solutions that benefit all of humanity.

The UN consists of 6 main organs, and apart from this, it also consists of several independent agencies, as well as offices, programmes and funds with different areas of responsibilities. For example UNICEF (UN Children’s fund) and UNEP (UN Environment Program).

On this page you can find some of the reports, articles etc produced by these organizations, as well as links to take you there.     

Clear the air for children

October 2016.

“Reducing air pollution is one of the most important things we can do for children. Research shows that reductions in
air pollution have led to improvements in children’s respiratory functions. “

It could also improve the overall health of millions more, help to reduce the incidence of acute and chronic respiratory infections among children, and reduce complications during pregnancy

and childbirth. Finally, studies show it could improve children’s physical and cognitive development, helping them to lead longer and more productive lives.

Click here to get to the report.

THE TOXIC SCHOOL RUN

HOW TOXIC AIR IS PUTTING CHILDREN’S HEALTH IN DANGER

September 2018.

Every day, millions of children in our towns and cities are exposed to dangerous levels of pollution in the areas where they live, learn and play. This invisible danger could be stunting their lung growth, increasing their risk of asthma and potentially damaging their brain growth.

This research briefing sets out new data from Queen Mary’s University London that looks at children’s exposure to air pollution across the school day.

Click here to get to the report.

Children’s rights and the environment. 

September 2018.

” No group is more vulnerable to environmental harm than children.

Air pollution, water pollution and exposure to toxic substances, together with other types of environmental harm, cause 1.5 million deaths of children under the age of 5 every year, and contribute to disease, disability and early mortality throughout their life. “

Click here to get to the report.

Pollution Action Note – Data you need to know

August 2022 (last updated).

Air pollution and climate change are closely linked as all major pollutants have an impact on the climate and most share common sources with greenhouse gases. Improving our air quality will bring health, development, and environmental benefits.

The UNEP Pollution Action Note displays the global state of air pollution, major sources, the impact on human health, and national efforts to tackle this critical issue.

Click here to get to the interactive webpage. From there you can also go on to explore the topic of air through the UNEP webpage.