The UN Environment Management Group (EMG), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), UN-Habitat and UN Environment, organized its fourth Nexus Dialogue on Cities, Pollution and Health on 3 December 2017, in the margins of the third session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-3) in Nairobi, Kenya.
The dialogue focused on the interconnected challenges of rapid urbanization, environmental pollution and human health, exploring how integrated policies and coordinated action could help create healthier, more sustainable cities. Discussions were designed to address the health and environmental impacts of air pollution, water contamination and solid waste, while highlighting the importance of cooperation across sectors and levels of governance.
Bringing together representatives from the UN system, national and local governments, including city leaders, and other stakeholders, the dialogue provided a platform to exchange experiences, good practices and practical solutions. Key areas of focus included sustainable urban mobility, clean energy, waste management, water and sanitation, urban planning and climate action. Particular attention was given to successful partnerships and initiatives demonstrating how environmental and health objectives could be advanced together.
The dialogue aimed to strengthen collaboration across the UN system and identify opportunities for integrated policies and joint action at local, national and global levels. It highlighted the importance of connecting environmental protection, public health and sustainable urban development to accelerate progress towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.