UN Environment Programme 203d ago

Excessive use of nitrogen and phosphorus is causing widespread environmental degradation, surpassing safe planetary boundaries. Sustainable nutrient management offers critical co-benefits, including improved food systems and soil health, through pollution reduction, optimized fertilizer use, and the implementation of integrated nutrient management strategies to restore soil productivity. Nutrient pollution is a cross-cutting issue that intersects with multiple policy domains. Addressing it effectively requires a holistic, circular, and multi-sectoral approach—one that is transdisciplinary and systems-wide, spanning from source to sea. Such an approach is essential to promote soil, water, and ocean health, while supporting sustainable food systems. The fourth and fifth sessions of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) have recognized the urgency of this issue, adopting two resolutions on sustainable nitrogen management (UNEA 4/14 and UNEA 5/2). In the Executive Director’s report for UNEA-7, tackling nutrient pollution is highlighted as one of the key priorities. Objectives and outcomes Present the latest scientific findings on nitrogen and phosphorus pollution. Identify gaps and emerging issues in nutrient governance. Highlight the need for enhanced research, collaboration, and coordinated action to advance sustainable nutrient management globally. Organizers and partners The event is organized by the Source to Sea Pollution Unit of UNEP, in coordination with the Global Partnership on Nutrient (GPNM), with speakers from relevant international, research, and civil society organizations. Organizer Walid Passas