Environmental Emergencies
OCHA responds to the humanitarian consequences of natural disasters and other emergencies by coordinating international efforts and mobilizing partners to assist affected countries requesting assistance.
By pairing the technical expertise of its partners in managing disasters and conflicts with its strong humanitarian response coordination structure, OCHA ensures an integrated approach in responding to environmental emergencies.
OCHA facilitates the provision of assistance between affected countries and those willing to donate resources including environmental expertise and mobile laboratories among others, to conduct rapid assessments, and to help national authorities in developing strategies to respond.
OCHA provides independent, impartial advice and practical solutions, and works with organizations dedicated to medium and long-term rehabilitation to ensure a seamless transition to the disaster recovery process.
Natural Disasters
Large scale natural disasters, such as the 2005 Tsunami, pose a number of secondary risks to affected populations. Through OCHA, United Nations agencies and other partners can assist in identifying and addressing these risks.
Technological or Industrial Accidents
Samples taken during an independent technical scoping mission to this former potash mine in the Kalush Area of Ukraine, found traces of the highly toxic Hexachlorobenzene (HCB). OCHA’s mission reports draw attention to potential industrial threats posed to local populations.
Conflict and War
The bombing of the fuel storage tanks in Byblos Harbour, Lebanon, led some 70 different entities to rush to contain and clean up the disaster. OCHA provides coordination and support to ensure effective response in complex emergencies.
Preparing for an Environmental Emergency
OCHA assists countries to improve their ability to prepare for and respond to natural disasters and other emergencies. Upon request, OCHA will deploy multi-stakeholder teams to assess the strengths and weaknesses of national and local response systems, after which it will increase national capacity by providing technical advice, training, and assist national authorities and stakeholders in developing a comprehensive contingency plan.
Working with the United Nations Environment Programme, the Advisory Group on Environmental Emergencies, National Focal Points, other United Nations agencies and programmes, OCHA develops policies, guidelines and tools for environmental emergency response. Through its extensive network of contacts, OCHA also maintains a roster of environmental experts which it trains to work as an integral part of United Nations Disaster Assessment Coordination and other international response and preparedness missions.
