The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste and Pollution (ISP-CWP) is a new, independent intergovernmental body established to strengthen the global science-policy interface.
The Panel will provide policymakers with authoritative, policy-relevant scientific advice to support the sound management of chemicals and waste and to prevent pollution, taking into account different national circumstances, development priorities, and capacities. Its goal is to help protect human health and safeguard the environment for present and future generations.
Established on 20 June 2025 under the mandate of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) resolution 5/8, the Panel addresses one of the most critical but under-supported pillars of the global environmental agenda. Pollution is now recognized as a leading threat to planetary and human well-being, yet the global response remains fragmented and uneven. ISP-CWP aims to fill this gap by assessing knowledge, identifying policy options, and catalyzing action that is effective, inclusive, and grounded in scientific evidence.
Governments, scientists, and stakeholders from all regions agreed to the Panel's foundational document through an intergovernmental process from 2022 to 2025. The Secretariat of the Panel is hosted by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
The first session of the Plenary (ISP-CWP P1) was hosted by the Government of Switzerland from 2 February to 6 February 2026, at the Geneva International Conference Centre (CICG). The session was preceded by regional and stakeholder meetings on 1 February 2026, at the same venue. Additional information are available on the event webpage.
Latest updates
Membership Updates
News
The Republic of Singapore officially became the 133rd member of the ISP-CWP on 05 June 2026.
The Republic of Congo officially became the member of the ISP-CWP on 16 May 2026.
Chemical Waste and Pollution Crisis
The escalating levels of chemicals, waste, and pollution pose a severe global environmental challenge, undermining the environmental, social, economic, and health dimensions of sustainable development.
Without urgent interventions and strengthened governance that are based on sound and up-to date science, the cumulative impacts of chemical pollution will intensify, further threatening human health, food security, and the resilience of natural systems, etc.
The newly established Intergovernmental Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste and Pollution Prevention represents a critical step in addressing this crisis. By providing independent, transparent, and policy-relevant scientific assessments, the Panel will help governments and other stakeholders take evidence-based action to the sound management of chemicals and waste to mitigate current, and prevent future pollution. Its work will be essential in guiding global and national policies, fostering international cooperation, and accelerating progress towards a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future.
Stay updated and subscribe to our Mailing List!
To stay informed about the work of the ISP-CWP, we encourage you to subscribe to the Panel’s mailing list. As the Panel is being operationalized, it is important to keep stakeholders updated on key developments, upcoming meetings, and opportunities for engagement. By subscribing, you will receive timely updates, including:
- Notifications of upcoming Panel meetings and events
- Announcements of new reports, publications, and findings
- Opportunities to participate in stakeholder consultations and dialogues
To stay updated, please Subscribe to the mailing list.
Contact
ISP-CWP Interim Secretariat: isp-cwp@un.org
