‘Those Who Benefit Least’ Bear Greatest Burden of Toxic Pollution, Expert Warns Third Committee, Citing ‘Global-Scale Environmental Injustice’

During a session of the United Nations Third Committee, which handles social, humanitarian and cultural matters, experts delivered a warning that toxic pollution is endangering both human rights and ecosystems. They noted that global temperatures are on track to exceed the 1.5 °C limit that scientists consider critical, underscoring the urgency of the situation. The speakers highlighted a pattern of environmental injustice, stating that the communities and individuals who gain the least from polluting activities are the ones who suffer the heaviest impacts.

The warning frames the mounting environmental threats as matters that intersect with the Committee’s broader mandate on social and humanitarian issues. By drawing attention to the link between pollution, climate thresholds and human rights, the experts are urging member states and policymakers to take immediate action to address the disproportionate burden faced by the most vulnerable populations and to prevent further ecological degradation.