Environment: UN calls for response to new risks

Forest fires, noise pollution and disruption of natural cycles are emerging environmental risks, according to the UN.

Here a forest fire in Algeria, August 11, 2021. © Fateh Guidoum/AP -

Text by: RFI Follow

1 min

In a report published this Thursday, February 17, the United Nations Environment Program warns of emerging risks to the environment: noise pollution in the city, increase in forest fires and disruption of natural cycles by climate change.

Three phenomena that deserve the attention of governments, according to the UN.

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It is still little known, but “ 

 ”.

Road, rail, air traffic... so many sources of nuisance that affect our sleep and cause heart disease.

The UN estimates that noise is the cause of 12,000 premature deaths each year in the European Union.

Another phenomenon requires better consideration: forest fires.

More than 420 million hectares already go up in smoke each year.

Africa is by far the most affected continent.

With more frequent droughts and rising temperatures, fires are likely to increase.

They could even affect areas hitherto spared.

more season

Finally, the United Nations warns that natural cycles are also being disrupted by climate change.

There is no more season, and plants and animals suffer.

These three phenomena are growing and have an impact on our health, our agriculture, our economy and the environment.

The UN calls on leaders to act and not underestimate these emerging risks.

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• UN

• Environment

• Pollution

• Natural disasters

• Biodiversity