Nearly every child in the world is exposed to climate hazards that threaten their health and development, according to a new UNICEF report.
“The lives of children continue to be upended by the impact of heatwaves, wildfires, droughts, and floods,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.
“Half of the world’s children are now living with at least three overlapping climate threats shaping their daily lives.”
The report found that the impact on children’s physical and mental health, well-being and access to education and protection is enormous yet remains poorly quantified.
“When we strengthen health and education systems, and improve infrastructure with children in mind, we protect them from today’s climate threats and help secure their future,” Russell said, calling for more investment in resilient services.
