UNEP official says climate risks will affect over 167 million people by 2040

Climate risks will affect more than 167 million people by 2040.

Report informs that Elizabeth Maruma Mrema, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), said this at the One UN roundtable held as part of the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13).

According to her, when talking about buildings, the entire value chain must be completed and buildings must be made environmentally sustainable for the future: "In many parts of the world, energy efficiency in buildings is a key issue, especially in terms of air conditioning, cooling, heating and which energy source is used. But, for example, in Africa, energy efficiency is not very high. Here, however, pollution issues are of key importance. But ultimately, the main issue is the health of the people who will benefit from construction."

She noted that one of the main issues in this area is supporting public awareness about the characteristics of buildings: "So, again, we expect the UN at the country level to support the creation of this awareness. In terms of cooperation at UNEP, we have the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction, as well as the COOL Coalition, which is a global platform. We support stronger policies, sustainable materials, project pipelines and bankable housing projects through both building financing, tools for new buildings and technical assistance. In short, there are many ways. We are cooperating, and I am sure we can do more."