In a landmark decision aimed at tackling pollution and waste, nations have come together to establish a new global science-policy panel under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). This move, agreed upon in Punta del Este, Uruguay, will help nations manage chemicals and waste, and prevent pollution with the support of independent, evidence-based scientific advice.

Filling a Critical Gap in Global Environmental Governance

This newly formed panel, born from a 2022 UNEA resolution, will conduct global assessments, identify knowledge gaps, and guide countries with actionable science on pollution prevention. With the ongoing crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, the panel adds to the UN’s scientific "trifecta," alongside the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) and IPBES (Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services).

Inger Andersen, UNEP’s Executive Director, emphasized the historic significance of the panel, saying, “This panel represents science and cooperation coming together to minimize the negative impacts of chemicals and waste.”

A Critical Tool for Policymakers

With pollution linked to millions of deaths annually and growing waste generation, the new panel will support countries, especially those in the developing world, by providing the evidence and tools necessary for effective policy-making. This will be crucial for reducing the impact of chemicals, managing waste, and safeguarding environmental and human health.

Following this agreement, UNEP will host the panel, with countries set to discuss its work program and priorities at its first plenary session. This initiative marks an essential step toward global environmental governance and the long-term protection of the planet.