Putting the Environment First in Every Government

Several key countries around the world have environmental agencies, such as Canada, India, Brazil and Japan. Environment Canada, for example, is responsible for coordinating environmental policies and programs as well as preserving and enhancing the natural environment and renewable resources. The United States has the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which regulates chemicals and protects human health by safe-guarding the environment.

However, at a time when our environment is threatened, more governments need to establish environmental agencies to help manage these challenges. To help make this a reality, the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has been helping governments develop and apply environmental laws, from global conventions to national environmental legislation. UNEP's work is to ensure that emerging environmental problems of international significance are brought to the attention of, and receive support from, UNEP's Governing Council, which reports to the United Nations General Assembly.

Despite these successful institutional efforts and the work that has been achieved in safeguarding the environment, the environment and the natural resource base that supports life continues to deteriorate at an alarming rate. Urgent and renewed efforts are required to be under taken by all countries. Combating environmental degradation successfully will require full participation of all in society. Preserving and enhancing the natural environment and regulating chemicals to protect human health will help to improve the environment for all countries.

If governments work towards setting up environmental agencies, it would further the goal of achieving and enforcing set standards. By working together to set up environmental agencies, they can foster awareness, share information and further the goal of environmental enhancement.

For more information, please visit http://www.unep.org/