Unep Bg Guide
Unep Bg Guide
It is with great honour and excitement that we welcome you to the United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP) at Candor MUN 2024. As your Executive Board, we are
here to guide and support you throughout this conference, ensuring that your experience is
both rewarding and intellectually stimulating. Our goal is to create an environment where
innovative thinking and dynamic discussions lead to impactful solutions for the pressing
environmental issues of our time.
As you embark on this journey, we encourage you to immerse yourselves fully in research,
preparing to tackle the challenges associated with sustainable development and environmental
resilience. The agenda before you demands not only a deep understanding of global
environmental policies but also creativity in addressing the complex crises that face our
planet. We expect you to engage in thoughtful deliberations, demonstrating diplomacy,
negotiation, and collaboration as you work towards creating a more sustainable future.
We also remind you that the strength of this committee lies in the diversity of perspectives
and ideas you will encounter. Embrace the opportunity to learn from your fellow delegates,
and remember that diplomacy and cooperation are at the heart of both the UNEP and the
United Nations. We hope that this experience will not only enhance your knowledge and
understanding of critical environmental issues but also foster new friendships and memories
that will last long after the conference concludes.
We look forward to witnessing the passion and insight that each of you will bring to this
forum. Together, let us strive to make Candor MUN 2024 an exceptional experience for all.
Warm regards,
Ryan Gomez(co-chair)
Sreesaketh(co-chair)
Aarush Tadi(Moderator)
Introduction to the committee:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) was established in 1972, following the
historic Stockholm Conference on the Human Environment, with a core mission to lead and
coordinate global efforts aimed at protecting the environment, promoting sustainable
development, and improving the quality of life without compromising the resources of future
generations. Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, UNEP serves as the voice for the environment
within the United Nations system, shaping policy, promoting scientific research, and offering
technical assistance to member states.
As the premier global environmental authority, UNEP's role is multifaceted and expansive. It
works to catalyse environmental actions through partnerships with governments,
non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and private entities. UNEP also collaborates with
other UN agencies, financial institutions, and international organisations to ensure a unified
approach to addressing environmental challenges.
UNEP’s mandate spans a wide range of crucial issues, including but not limited to:
UNEP recognizes that environmental issues are not confined to national borders; they are
global challenges that require collective action. Through its numerous initiatives, UNEP
fosters international cooperation by promoting multilateral environmental agreements and
offering technical assistance to countries in implementing their environmental commitments.
UNEP also places a significant emphasis on scientific research and innovation. The
organization generates authoritative reports, such as the Global Environment Outlook
(GEO), that provide critical data and analysis on environmental trends, helping nations make
informed decisions. UNEP is also a driving force behind green technology and sustainable
innovations, advocating for the development and deployment of renewable energy,
climate-smart agriculture, and eco-friendly infrastructure solutions.
The agenda "Sustainable Development Goals and Crisis Response: Building Resilient
Ecosystems for 2040 and Beyond" reflects the urgent need to address environmental and
social challenges through long-term, sustainable solutions. As we approach 2040, the
pressures of climate change, natural resource depletion, biodiversity loss, and rising
environmental crises demand an integrated global response. The task of building resilient
ecosystems is no longer optional; it is a necessity for human survival and well-being.
This agenda focuses on how the international community can collaborate to achieve the
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 and ensure their continuation beyond,
particularly in the context of emerging crises. In particular, the debate will centre on building
ecosystems capable of withstanding environmental shocks while continuing to support
biodiversity, human livelihoods, and global development.
Key Terms:
International Mechanisms:
1. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
Established in 1992, the UNFCCC is a key international treaty that coordinates global
efforts to combat climate change. It provides a framework for countries to collectively
address climate issues through mitigation, adaptation, and financial support. The
UNFCCC organises annual Conferences of the Parties (COPs), where nations
review progress, set new goals, and negotiate international agreements, such as the
Kyoto Protocol and the Paris Agreement. These meetings are critical for the
ongoing development of climate policies that aim to address global warming and its
far-reaching impacts on ecosystems.
2. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)
The IPCC, established in 1988, is the leading international body responsible for
assessing the science related to climate change. Through its reports, the IPCC offers
comprehensive assessments of current climate conditions, forecasts for future
scenarios, and policy options for mitigation and adaptation. These reports, based on
extensive scientific data, are a foundation for climate-related decision-making,
offering governments the knowledge needed to address the effects of climate change
on ecosystems, economies, and societies.
3. Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR)
Adopted in 2015, the Sendai Framework is a global agreement that aims to reduce
disaster risks and enhance resilience to both natural and human-made disasters. It
emphasises understanding risk, strengthening disaster governance, and investing in
risk reduction measures. The framework encourages preparedness for disaster events
such as floods, droughts, storms, and heatwaves, which are increasingly tied to climate
change. The Sendai Framework serves as a vital global strategy to reduce the impact
of climate-related disasters on human populations and ecosystems.
4. Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), launched in 1993, focuses on the
conservation of biological diversity, the sustainable use of its components, and the
equitable sharing of the benefits arising from the utilisation of genetic resources. This
treaty plays a pivotal role in global efforts to preserve biodiversity and promote
ecosystems that are essential to human well-being and climate resilience. The CBD
encourages countries to develop national strategies that integrate biodiversity
conservation with broader sustainable development objectives.
5. Global Climate Finance Mechanisms
International financial mechanisms like the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Global
Environment Facility (GEF) provide crucial funding for climate action in developing
countries. The GCF, established under the UNFCCC, helps finance large-scale
projects that promote low-emission and climate-resilient development. Similarly, the
GEF funds initiatives related to biodiversity, climate change, and land degradation.
These mechanisms play a critical role in ensuring that developing nations have the
financial resources needed to implement sustainable solutions and respond to
environmental crises.
6. 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by all United Nations
Member States in 2015, provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity, centered
around the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals aim to address a
wide range of global challenges, including poverty, inequality, climate change, and
environmental degradation. The SDGs prioritize sustainable development across
social, economic, and environmental dimensions, making them central to international
efforts to build resilient ecosystems and reduce climate-related vulnerabilities.
7. International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)
IRENA is an intergovernmental organization that supports countries in their transition
to sustainable energy systems. It promotes the adoption of renewable energy
technologies, including solar, wind, and hydro, which are essential for reducing
greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change. IRENA's work is critical in
helping nations reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and shift toward energy systems
that are both environmentally friendly and resilient to future climate impacts.
8. New Urban Agenda (NUA)
The New Urban Agenda (NUA), adopted in 2016 at the UN Conference on Housing
and Sustainable Urban Development, provides a global framework for fostering
sustainable urbanisation.It emphasises the importance of resilient urban infrastructure,
green spaces, and disaster preparedness, particularly in light of the challenges posed
by climate change. The NUA promotes urban planning that enhances cities' capacity
to cope with environmental shocks, contributing to both sustainable development and
the protection of ecosystems in urban environments.
Case Studies:
1. The Great Green Wall Initiative: Launched in 2007, the Great Green Wall Initiative
aims to combat desertification and land degradation across the Sahel region of Africa by
creating an 8,000 km long belt of trees from Senegal to Djibouti. This ambitious project seeks
to restore 100 million hectares of degraded land by 2030, improve food security, and enhance
biodiversity. To date, over 20 million hectares have been restored, contributing to local
economic development and improved soil fertility. However, the initiative faces challenges
from climate variability and coordination among multiple countries.
2. The Netherlands' Flood Management System: The Netherlands, known for its
vulnerability to flooding, has developed an advanced flood management system integrating
engineering solutions with ecosystem-based strategies. The Delta Works, a series of dams,
sluices, and storm surge barriers, and the Room for the River policy, which creates space for
rivers to flood naturally, are key components of this system. These measures, along with
nature-based solutions like wetland restoration, enhance flood resilience. Despite these
efforts, rising sea levels and increased rainfall due to climate change present ongoing risks.
3. Costa Rica’s National Decarbonization Plan: Costa Rica has committed to achieving
carbon neutrality by 2050 through its National Decarbonization Plan. The country has
made significant progress by generating over 99% of its electricity from renewable sources
and promoting electric vehicles. Forest conservation and reforestation efforts contribute to
carbon sequestration, supporting its decarbonization goals. However, balancing economic
growth with environmental objectives and securing long-term funding remains challenging.
4. The Amazon Fund: The Amazon Fund supports projects aimed at preventing
deforestation and promoting sustainable development in the Amazon rainforest. Managed by
the Brazilian Development Bank and financed through international donations, the fund has
facilitated numerous conservation and sustainable land management projects. While
deforestation rates have decreased in some areas due to these efforts, challenges such as
illegal logging and political pressures continue to threaten conservation progress.
5. Singapore’s Urban Sustainability Initiatives: Singapore has integrated urban
sustainability into its planning through initiatives like green roofs, vertical gardens, and urban
parks. The Singapore Green Plan 2030 outlines strategies for reducing carbon emissions and
enhancing climate resilience. Energy-efficient building standards and sustainable transport
solutions further support these goals. Despite these advancements, managing high population
density while maintaining green spaces and adapting to climate impacts like rising
temperatures remains a challenge.
6. The 2010 Pakistan Floods: The 2010 floods in Pakistan were among the most devastating
natural disasters in recent history, exacerbated by extreme monsoon rains linked to climate
change. The floods affected over 20 million people, inundating vast areas and causing
extensive damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and homes. The response involved a
large-scale humanitarian effort, but challenges included inadequate preparedness and
coordination. The disaster highlighted the need for improved flood management systems and
climate adaptation strategies.
7. Hurricane Katrina (2005): Hurricane Katrina, one of the deadliest and costliest
hurricanes in U.S. history, struck the Gulf Coast, particularly New Orleans, in August 2005.
The hurricane’s impact was intensified by failures in flood defenses and emergency response
systems. The devastation underscored the critical need for robust disaster preparedness,
effective evacuation plans, and infrastructure improvements. The aftermath prompted
significant changes in U.S. disaster management policies and practices.
8. The 2019–2020 Australian Bushfires: The bushfires that swept through Australia during
the 2019–2020 fire season were fueled by extreme heat and prolonged drought, conditions
intensified by global warming. The fires destroyed over 18 million hectares of land, killed or
displaced nearly three billion animals, and caused substantial economic losses. The disaster
underscored the increasing frequency and severity of climate-related extreme events and
highlighted the need for enhanced fire management strategies and climate resilience
measures.
9. Typhoon Haiyan (2013): Typhoon Haiyan, also known as Yolanda, struck the Philippines
in November 2013 with unprecedented force, causing widespread devastation across the
Visayas region. The typhoon resulted in over 6,000 deaths, significant infrastructure damage,
and massive displacement. The response involved international aid and local recovery efforts,
but challenges included logistical issues and the need for improved disaster preparedness and
community resilience against future storms.
10. The 2015 Nepal Earthquake: The magnitude 7.8 earthquake that struck Nepal in April
2015 caused extensive damage across the Kathmandu Valley and surrounding regions. The
earthquake resulted in nearly 9,000 deaths and tens of thousands of injuries, along with
widespread destruction of infrastructure and cultural heritage sites. The disaster response
involved international support and humanitarian aid, highlighting the need for improved
earthquake preparedness, building resilience, and effective recovery strategies.
11. The 2021 European Floods: In July 2021, catastrophic flooding hit several countries in
Western Europe, including Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Extreme rainfall led to
widespread flooding that caused significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and businesses,
resulting in over 200 deaths and billions in economic losses. The floods highlighted the urgent
need for improved flood risk management, climate adaptation strategies, and better early
warning systems to address increasing weather extremes.
12.The 2022 Pakistan Floods: The monsoon floods in Pakistan in 2022 were unprecedented,
affecting over 33 million people and causing widespread devastation across the country.
Extreme rainfall linked to climate change led to severe flooding, displacing millions,
destroying homes and infrastructure, and impacting agriculture. The response involved
national and international aid, but the disaster emphasized the need for enhanced flood
management and climate adaptation measures in vulnerable regions.
13.The 2023 Hawaii Wildfires: In August 2023, wildfires swept through the Hawaiian island
of Maui, causing extensive damage to communities and natural landscapes. The fires,
exacerbated by extreme heat and drought conditions, resulted in numerous fatalities,
significant property damage, and displacement of residents. The event underscored the
growing impact of climate change on wildfire risk and highlighted the need for improved fire
management strategies and community resilience.
14.The 2023 Cyclone Freddy: Cyclone Freddy, one of the longest-lasting and most intense
tropical cyclones in recorded history, struck Southern Africa in early 2023. The cyclone
caused severe flooding, landslides, and widespread damage across Madagascar, Mozambique,
and Malawi. The response involved international aid and recovery efforts, revealing the
increasing intensity of cyclones due to climate change and the need for enhanced disaster
preparedness and adaptation strategies.
QARMA
1. What specific environmental challenges and crises are being addressed?
2. What are the primary goals in terms of sustainable development and crisis response?
3. What strategies and actions are proposed to enhance ecosystem resilience and address
these challenges?
4. How will these strategies be implemented, and who will be responsible for execution?
5. What resources (financial, technological, human) are required to support the proposed
measures, and how will they be mobilized?
6. What existing international agreements or frameworks are relevant, and are any new
frameworks or agreements needed?
7. How will the effectiveness of the proposed measures be monitored and evaluated?
8. What potential obstacles or challenges could impact implementation, and how can these be
mitigated?
9. How can international collaboration and partnerships be strengthened to support the
objectives?
10.What capacity-building efforts are needed to ensure that affected regions can effectively
implement the proposed solutions?
11. How will public awareness and education regarding the importance of building resilient
ecosystems be addressed?
12.What are the financial implications, and how will funding be secured?
13.How will measures ensure sustainability and have a long-term impact?
14.How does the approach address the needs of vulnerable or marginalised communities in
relation to environmental resilience and crisis response?
15.What role can technology and innovation play in improving ecosystem resilience and
responding to crises?
16.How can cross-border and transboundary environmental issues be managed effectively?
17.What strategies can be employed to integrate disaster risk reduction into development
planning and environmental management?
18.How can international organizations and civil society collaborate to support and monitor
the implementation of the measures?