United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)

Committee Profile

The United Nations Environmental Programme focuses on global green and sustainable economic development through the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Besides helping member states achieve their environmental goals and targets, UNEP is primarily involved in the development of international agreements, research and development bodies, and fund distribution outlets.

Indigenous practices and knowledge have long been used to protect endangered species. There is a growing realization amongst environmental advocates around the world that the spread of these practices will be critical for a more sustainable future, as these traditional techniques have been known to control wildfires, boost agricultural production, and curb the impacts of climate change and natural disasters. Despite their critical role in conservation efforts, indigenous populations are extremely disadvantaged, vulnerable, and marginalized in today’s society. It is critical for member states to craft unique solutions that address the socioeconomic disparities that indigenous communities face while ensuring that they are at the forefront of conservation efforts. Tapping into indigenous specialists can manage fragile ecosystems, but it must not come at the cost of the livelihoods of indigenous peoples.

While public transportation can reduce air pollution, developing countries may not have the necessary financial capital or resources to develop safe and efficient public transportation systems, including trains or buses. Thus, developing countries are often reliant on cars or vans; reducing greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles will likely require UNEP nations to think about methods to increase vehicle efficiency while lowering the carbon content of fuels. While public transportation can be one part of the solution, it is imperative to consider the feasibility first. Countries in the Global North have also seen the rise of electric vehicles, but these solutions are notorious for exploiting workers in the South, especially during mining and manufacturing.

Chair Letter

Dear Delegates,

Welcome to BruinMUN 31! My name is Avanthika Panchapakesan (she/her), and I’m extremely excited to chair the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) this year. Despite only being involved for 3 years, I have quickly grown to love the MUN community which has taught me so much — personally and professionally. My experiences competing on the collegiate circuit as well as being one of the Under-Secretary-Generals of BruinMUN in 2021 have introduced me to so many wonderful people and granted me a platform to further engage with our world’s most pressing issues.

Currently, I’m a senior pursuing a double major in Statistics and International Development Studies. Outside of MUN, I am a senior staff writer and former editor for the Daily Bruin, UCLA’s student newspaper, and serve as the External Vice President of a student-run environmental consulting organization on campus. I’ve also been involved with research projects for UCLA’s Center for Middle East Development and the Institute of the Environment and Sustainability. Post-graduation, I plan to work for the federal government in international relations. In my free time, I enjoy reading nonfiction, baking, exploring new coffee shops, and watching basketball (go Warriors!).

The impacts of the climate crisis are primarily felt by the most vulnerable communities, and it is our moral duty to take action. Discussions regarding climate change often focus on issues such as plastic waste or carbon emissions; it is time for society to shift towards a more holistic approach to addressing the problem at hand. We hope that learning more about UNEP and its goals provides an opportunity for you to deepen your understanding of sustainability and the climate crisis. Modern movements, including Fridays for Future led by Greta Thunberg, have highlighted the need to amplify and actively listen to diverse perspectives to combat climate change. We’ve seen that we can enact meaningful change when we stand together united.

With all that being said, I am so excited to meet you, and please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns! See you in November!

Warmly,

Avanthika Panchapakesan | Chair | BruinMUN 31

unep@bruinmun.org