United Nations Environment Programme
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Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
United Nations Development Programme
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UN Economic Commission for Europe
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United Nations Refugee Agency
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UN System Chief Executives Board for Coordination (Observer)
Issue Management Group on Pollution
The EMG Issue Management Group (IMG) on Pollution was established in 2023 to support coordinated implementation of the UN Common Approach Towards a Pollution-Free Planet.
The Common Approach provides a shared framework for action across the UN system. It encourages UN entities to integrate pollution prevention and reduction into their strategies and programmes, strengthen collaboration, and accelerate action towards a pollution-free planet. It also helps connect and reinforce existing inter-agency initiatives addressing pollution.
The IMG's work is organized around three interconnected areas:
1. Promoting implementation of the Common Approach
The IMG raises awareness of the Common Approach and promotes coordinated action across the UN system. This includes developing shared messages and knowledge products, connecting the Common Approach with major global frameworks such as the Global Framework on Chemicals, and engaging UN Country Teams, regional mechanisms and global policy processes.
2. Mainstreaming pollution prevention and reduction across the UN system
The IMG works to embed pollution action into UN strategies, policies, programmes and development processes. This includes developing practical guidance, promoting pollution-related indicators in UN planning and reporting frameworks.
3. Monitoring progress and sharing knowledge
The IMG reports on progress in the implemenation of the Common Appraoch to the EMG. It also promotes the exchange of good practices, innovations and lessons learned, helping UN entities learn from one another and identify where further action or support is needed.
The IMG brings together 20 EMG member entities, providing a platform for UN organizations to coordinate their pollution-related work and share expertise and experience. Participating entities include CEB, DOS, FAO, IMO, IUCN, OHCHR, UN Women, UN-Habitat, UNCTAD, UNDP, UNDRR, UNECE, UNEP, UNEP-GFC, UNEP-SUN, UNHCR, UNODC, UNOPS, UNU and WWF. The Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC) Secretariat participates as an observer.