Environmental Post-Conflict Assessments: A New UN Tool Developed by UNEP

Military conflicts always bring human suffering. But what do we know about their environmental consequences? What risks do they pose to human health and the recovery process, and how can the environment be integrated into reconstruction efforts? Since spring 1999, the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) has been working in areas of the world where the natural and human environment has been damaged as a direct or indirect consequence of conflict. The focus has been on investigating the environmental impacts of conflicts, recommending strategic priorities for cleanup and remediation, strengthening the capacity of authorities for environmental management and protection, as well as catalysing and mobilising international support for environmental projects. This novel response by the United Nations to conflicts was initiated by the Executive Director of UNEP, Dr. Klaus Töpfer.