Today CHEM Trust signed onto a statement with over 100 other NGOs that has been shared at the United Nations Environment Assembly, currently being held in Nairobi.

It outlines grave concern over the humanitarian consequences of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the severe environmental health risks that this could pose along with damage to Ukraine’s biodiversity, ecosystems and natural resources both in the short and long term.

The statement outlines worry over the health risks posed by Russian targeting of nuclear waste storage sites and industrial sites. There have already been reports of the bombing of fuel depots and gas lines and alleged burning of warehouses storing chemicals.

‘Destruction of people’s habitats and collapse of environmental governance will further contribute to serious issues around public health, solid waste management and controls of chemical and industrial toxics, in particular those in populated areas. Russian attacks on munitions depots have already led to the dispersal of military-origin heavy metals and toxic hazardous energetic materials, posing additional human health and environmental risks.’

The statement outlines the importance of addressing the relationships between the environment, peace and security and should be ensuring the environmental dimensions of armed conflict are a part of the United Nations Environmental Program and United Nations Environment Assembly’s core work.

Read the full statement here.