The UNEP Year Book 2012 shows that we are facing a number of environmental challenges. However, scientists and policy makers made headway on addressing some of the most pressing environmental issues through new discoveries and investments.
The 2012 Year Book presents the most important events and developments from the year, gives a picture of the status of key environmental indicators, and also highlights two emerging issues in detail: the benefits of soil carbon and the decommissioning of nuclear power plants. The Year Book is intended to strengthen the science-policy interface by informing interested parties about the most relevant environmental issues.
www.unep.org/yearbook/2012/
content
chapter 1
Year in Review
2011 saw a number of environmental extremes, including record extreme weather and climate events and increasing degradation of marine ecosystems. However, progress was made towards new investments in renewable energy, with continued investment needed to transition to a green economy.
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chapter 2
the benefits of soil carbon
The carbon in soils provides multiple benefits, especially in enhancing food production and regulating our climate. Effective management of soils is important for maintaining and even enhancing soil carbon content, in a way that will meet the food, water and energy demands of a growing population.
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chapter 3
closing and decommissioning nuclear power reactors
The number of nuclear power reactors that are set to be decommissioned is increasing. The scale of the task ahead will require careful planning and co-ordination to ensure that decommissionings are carried out safely and cost-effectively.
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chapter 4
key environmental indicators
Global environmental trends that illustrate the state of our environment can be inferred using several key indicators. These indicators bring to light a number of positive trends, but also highlight the need to address mounting challenges, such as climate change, biodiversity loss and land and soil degradation.
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