
The climate crisis is a child rights crisis: Introducing the Children's Climate Risk Index
The report highlights how one billion children are at extreme risk due to climate change with small island states and countries already facing existential threats. It is a call to action for businesses and governments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and commit to sustainable practices.
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OVERVIEW
Introduction
The report published by UNICEF highlights how climate change is creating a child rights crisis globally affecting the well-being of one billion children. The report identifies the most extreme ESG risks facing children and young people due to environmental hazards, shocks, and stresses.
Exposure to climate and environmental hazards
The report reveals that climate change exacerbates the risks of exposure to environmental hazards, such as extreme temperatures, water scarcity, floods, cyclones, disease vectors, air and water pollution, and overlapping multiple hazards. The Children’s Climate Risk Index provides insight into children’s exposure in 33 countries with recommended actions focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and aligning national strategies with the Paris Agreement to prevent the worst outcomes.
Vulnerable children and communities
Children and young people living in vulnerable environments, as identified by the Children’s Climate Risk Index, including those in fragile contexts are most at risk of harm due to the adverse effects of climate change. Investing in educational and social protection programs creates opportunities to build resilience and reduce ESG risks faced by vulnerable children and communities.
Recommendations and conclusion
Climate action is urgently needed to reduce the adverse impacts of climate change on children. The report calls for governments and businesses to work together to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as well as to promote sustainability practices that reduce the reliance on fossil fuels. The key recommendations are investments in social services, particularly in education and health and nutrition services. The report also recommends policies that promote green growth and aligning with the recommendations set out in the Paris Agreement. The index also reveals that extreme risk locations contribute little to climate change, while being the most vulnerable to its effects. It highlights the need for equitable investment in providing support to these countries to help promote a better future for all children.