April Briefing by UNEP backing environmental multilateralism and plans for World Environment Day

 Republished UNEPs briefing

Your April Briefing

 

Get the latest on this year's World Environment Day, environmental multilateralism, data on ocean protection and conservation, and more.

In depth

 

Gear up for June’s World Environment Day    Climate action is not just about reducing carbon emissions—it is about rethinking the systems that power economies and repairing humanity’s relationship with the planet. That's why this year's observance highlights the urgency of working together for a  safer, healthier, and more just future for all. If you're planning an event, register it now to have it featured on the global map. Subscribe for updates on events, resources, and ways to get involved near you.    Deadlines approaching – April 15    Do you know a Champion of the Earth? The 2026 award focuses on leaders at the forefront of protecting and restoring ocean health, with nominations accepted across categories including policy leadership, inspiration and action, entrepreneurial vision, and science and innovation. Submit your nomination.      Young people between 18 and 30 are encouraged to apply for the Young Champions of the Earth award. Selected applicants will receive global recognition, seed funding, training, mentorship, and access to influential change-makers. Fill out the application form.

By the numbers

 

10% of the ocean is now protected and conserved, marking a significant milestone for the world. These areas are vital for people and wildlife, helping to halt biodiversity loss and sustain communities worldwide. See more.

Worth a watch

 

See how technologies are helping some of the most vulnerable communities around the world adapt to a changing climate.

Take action

 

Stand with science to protect lives, rebuild trust, and secure a healthier future – World Health Day Seven ways to cut your food waste  Join efforts to beat pollution    Take part in a survey on ocean pollution and its impacts

Worth a read

 

Backing environmental multilateralism in complex times  UNEP statement on environmental damage arising from the conflict in the Middle East  Reaping the digital dividend: the AI solutions helping cut food waste in half  UN Advisory Board names 20 city leaders in zero waste  Chef Massimo Bottura’s philosophy on food waste – and a recipe that embodies it  Using existing experience to ensure quick implementation of the BBNJ Agreement

Mark your calendars

 

12 April: International Day of Human Space Flight  14 to 16 April: ECOSOC Youth Forum in New York  20 to 22 April: Sustainable Buildings and Construction Summit in Lausanne, Switzerland  21 to 25 April: Climate Week in Yeosu, the Republic of Korea  22 April: International Mother Earth Day

Seen online

 

Swipe to discover the species now under better protection, including cheetahs, striped hyenas, snowy owls, giant otters, and great hammerhead sharks thanks to action taken in Brazil as countries agreed on new or upgraded protections for 40 migratory species.

Funding partner spotlgiht

 

UNEP is deeply appreciative to the Member States that contributed their full financial share to UNEP’s core fund, the Environment Fund, in March: France, Ireland, Luxembourg and the Philippines.   UNEP extends further appreciation to the Member States that have made other contributions to the Environment Fund during this period, including Canada, Germany, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand.    For the latest updates, visit the Funding Partner Spotlight.

Work with us

 

Today's global environmental challenges can be overcome, but only with the best and the brightest on our team. Check out job vacancies, consultancy opportunities and more.    IMPORTANT: UNEP does not charge a fee at any stage of its recruitment process (application, interview, processing, training) or other fee, or request information on applicants’ bank accounts.