The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority within the United Nations system. UNEP provides leadership and encourages partnerships in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations. UNEP also provides strategic guidance to Member States on environmental issues and promotes coordination of environmental programmes across the UN system.
UNEP’s internal Environmental Management System (EMS) is coordinated by the Corporate Services Division (CSD), which supports the organization in operational and administrative matters. UNEP’S EMS is guided by the Environmental Management System (EMS) Steering Group and implemented through the CSD Operations Unit. In offices away from Headquarters, designated Environmental Sustainability Focal Points coordinate local greening initiatives and support the annual environmental inventory process.
UNEP monitors and manages a broad range of environmental aspects and impacts associated with its operations. These include greenhouse gas inventory management and emissions reduction initiatives, waste management, water and energy consumption, sustainable procurement practices, and the promotion of sustainable events and meetings. UNEP also undertakes staff awareness and sensitization programmes to encourage environmentally responsible behaviour across the organization.
In support of system-wide sustainability efforts, UNEP hosts the Sustainable United Nations (SUN) facility, which assists UN organizations in advancing climate neutrality and environmental sustainability in their operations. Through the Greening the Blue initiative, coordinated by the SUN, good practices, innovations, and sustainability achievements are shared across the UN system to promote continuous improvement and collaboration on environmental performance.
