Intergovernmental environmental organizations:

Under the auspices of the UN:

UNEP, UNESCO, FAO, WHO, ILO, IAEA

Independent regional:

EURATOM, EUROPEAN COUNCIL, EUROPEAN ECONOMIC COMMUNITY, HELCOM, ASIAN-AFRICA LEGAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE.

Non-governmental international organizations:

IUCN, WWWF, MOJO, CLUB OF ROME, INTERNATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL COURT, GREENPEACE.

International cooperation can be carried out on a bilateral and multilateral basis. Its history spans over a hundred years.

The most important documents in the system of international environmental relations:

1) the World Party for Conservation of Nature, which proclaimed and protected the right of all forms of life to survive;

2) Convention on the Prohibition of Military and Any Other Hostile Use of Means of Influencing the Natural Environment;

3) Convention on climate change;

4) Convention on Biological Diversity;

5) Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer;

6) Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna;

7) Declaration on the human environment, which is a set of fundamental principles of international cooperation;

8) Convention on Wetlands;

9) Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage and a number of other documents.

International organizations monitor the implementation of the adopted agreements, coordinate joint efforts to protect nature and draw public attention to environmental problems.

They can be international (intergovernmental) or non-governmental (public):

1) the most important among interstate organizations is UNEP, established by the UN in 1972 to implement the environmental protection program;

2) the health aspects of environmental protection are considered by the World Health Organization (WHO);

3) control over compliance with the construction and operation of nuclear power plants is carried out by the IAEA - the International Atomic Energy Agency, established under the auspices of the UN in 1957;

4) for Russia and other countries that are members of the CIS, the creation of the Interstate Ecological Council (1992) is of particular importance;

5) the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) is actively involved in the conservation of biological diversity;

6) a well-known international public organization is Greenpeace, the main activity of which is to combat environmental pollution.

The EEC civil protection program includes the following activities:

1) dissemination of knowledge about protective measures and improvement of the quality of education;

2) development of a unified terminology;

3) development of networks for the detection of natural risk areas using satellites;

4) organization of seminars, symposiums, exhibitions and other public events;

5) creation of the European civil defense emblem and the establishment of honorary awards.

Governmental and many non-governmental programs are led by UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, established in 1946 to coordinate the activities of governments and scientific institutions. In 1972, in Stockholm, UNESCO organized the first major International Conference on the Environment. As a result of this conference, the UN Intergovernmental Program on the Environment - UNEP (UNEP - UNITED NATION Environment Program) was created. UNEP is dedicated to the most acute problems of the destruction of the biosphere by man (desertification, soil degradation, deforestation, a sharp deterioration in the quality and decrease in the amount of fresh water, pollution of the oceans).
After the Stockholm Conference, a total of 170 different treaties and agreements on environmental protection have been signed to this day, which should regulate the use of natural resources and pollution of the biosphere (Table 3.3). The most important of these is the so-called Washington Convention – “Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna” (Washington, 1973). Until March 1986, 91 states, including the USSR, joined the convention. The Convention includes three lists of endangered species, which are constantly updated.
The most important document is the "World Conservation Strategy" (March 5, 1980). It is prepared and curated by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN), the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and other international non-governmental organizations working under the auspices of UNESCO.

IUCN is a non-governmental organization established in 1948 under UNESCO (headquartered in Switzerland). The IUCN includes more than 130 states (including the Russian Federation), as well as 24 international organizations. The IUCN publishes international Red Data Books.

WWF (World Wildlife Fund) - An international non-governmental organization established in 1961, carries out fundamental research, establishes and protects nature reserves, provides financial assistance and is engaged in educational and educational work in the field of nature conservation. It has already supported over 3,000 projects worth over $90 million.

In 1982, the UN adopted the "World Charter for Nature" - an international environmental document that places responsibility for the state of the biosphere on all states that are members of the UN. Unfortunately, this charter proved ineffective.

In June 1992, the International Conference took place in Rio de Janeiro. This grandiose forum was attended by 40 thousand people, the delegation from Russia consisted of 160 people, the progress of the forum was covered by 2000 journalists.

At the conference, provisions were formulated on the need to move the world community to the path of sustainable development and it was planned to sign the "Earth Charter" - the main document on the strategy and tactics of human development on the way to a society of sustainable development (including the obligations of rich countries to assist poor countries in improving the environmental situation). ). However, the text of the charter was not adopted, as rich countries refrained from specific commitments (mainly due to the instability of the demographic situation in poor countries). The charter was replaced by a "protocol of intent" - the Declaration on Environment and Development. Forecasting the environmental consequences of human economic activity and substantiating the role of nature reserves are the central tasks that were solved by the International Biological Program "Man and the Biosphere". As a result of the implementation of this program, a representative network of biosphere reserves was created (by 1990 their number exceeded 243.120 million hectares). An important role is played by the World Health Organization (WHO) - an intergovernmental organization established in 1946, whose efforts are aimed at combating especially dangerous diseases. The WHO is also responsible for the impact on human health of various contaminants.
International obligations of the Russian Federation in the field of environmental protection
The Russian Federation is an active participant in many international environmental organizations (both governmental and non-governmental) and carries out a number of important projects under bilateral agreements (with the USA, Germany, Japan, Finland, etc.).

At the UN conferences on environment and development, the most important documents aimed at solving the problems of the Earth were adopted. Russia also joined all these documents, declaring its support for international cooperation in the interests of sustainable development.

The “Concept for the transition of the Russian Federation to sustainable development” was developed and approved by the President of the Russian Federation. The draft “State Strategy for Sustainable Development of the Russian Federation” is being discussed. Action plans of the Government of the Russian Federation for environmental protection are being developed.

European member governments regularly review and update their structures and procedures for non-Union (EU) environmental quality management in order to improve their effectiveness. In addition to the previous levels of government, the state, one more, interstate, level has been added.

An important trend of our time is that the central authorities began to transfer more and more powers to local authorities.

International cooperation of the Russian Federation is carried out in the form of participation in international conventions, signing agreements on environmental protection and the implementation of various projects, including those for solving problems of a regional nature.

The main interaction is carried out with the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) as part of the implementation of projects in Russia. The executive body of UNEP in Russia is the Center for International Projects of the State Committee for Ecology, which also acts as a coordinator of a number of joint projects between Russia, the CIS and UNEP. The main attention is focused on the improvement of information systems, harmonization of information systems and environmental legislation in Russia and the CIS countries, the problems of the Caspian and Black Seas, and other regional programs.

As part of the activities of the UNECE Committee on Environmental Policy, conferences of ministers of environmental protection of European countries are regularly held, environmental programs are being developed to improve the policy and management of environmental activities in countries with economies in transition. An important event of recent years is Russia's participation in the Pan-European Conference of Ministers of Environmental Protection under the auspices of the UNECE, which resulted in the "Environmental Program for Europe".

The Arctic G8 countries, including Russia, are participating in the implementation of the Arctic Environmental Protection Strategy.

Joint regional projects are being carried out. In accordance with the Declaration adopted by the ministers of environmental protection of the Barents Sea region (1995), work is underway to prevent radioactive contamination, preparedness for nuclear accidents, environmental management, etc.

Cooperation within the Barents Euro-Arctic region includes the prevention of radiation pollution, environmental management, reduction of pollution from industrial activities, protection of habitats and conservation of flora and fauna.

Agreements on cooperation of the Russian Federation in the field of environmental protection and ensuring environmental safety have been signed with many countries, in particular:

• 
  with Finland and Bulgaria - on cooperation in the field of prevention of industrial accidents, natural disasters and elimination of their consequences (1994);
• 
  with Norway on cooperation in combating oil pollution in the Barents Sea (1994);
• 
  with the People's Republic of China and other countries - on the joint protection of forests from fires;
• 
  with the USA - on cooperation in the field of environmental protection and natural resources (1994).

The 1994 agreement with the US is a continuation of the 1972 Agreement. The US also signed an agreement on cooperation to prevent environmental pollution in the Arctic and others. Cooperation with the USA is carried out primarily within the framework of the Environmental Committee of the Russian-American Commission on Economic and Technological Cooperation.

Russia has obligations to fulfill the international environmental treaties it has signed (more than 20 of them), including conventions, agreements and protocols to them. These are the London Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution by Dumping of Wastes and Other Materials, the Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Baltic Sea, the Convention for the Protection of the Black Sea from Pollution, the Convention to Combat Desertification, the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer, the Convention on Long Range Transboundary Air Pollution, the Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal, the Vienna Convention on Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage and others.
Ratification of international treaties and conventions is supported by the laws of the Russian Federation.
In 1979, under the auspices of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, the Convention “On Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution” was developed and adopted.
In 1994, Russia signed the Protocol to the 1979 Convention on Long-range Transboundary Air Pollution regarding the further reduction of sulfur emissions. Commitments under this Protocol, which provide for a reduction of emissions in the European part by 38% by 2000 and by 40% by 2005 and 2010. in relation to the level of 1980, were actually completed by 1991.
In 1988, a Protocol was signed on the control of emissions of nitrogen oxides or their transboundary fluxes, according to which, no later than December 31, 1994, they should not exceed the level of annual national emissions for 1987. This obligation has been fulfilled by Russia since 1991 (due to the decline production).
The 1991 Protocol on the Control of Emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds or Their Transboundary Fluxes (to prevent the formation of ground-level ozone) has not been signed by Russia and has not been ratified by most countries.
Russia has ratified the Basel Convention “On the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes and Their Disposal”, adopted in 1989 by the world community, according to which the import of wastes for the purpose of their disposal or incineration on the territory of the Russian Federation is prohibited.

State educational institution

higher professional education

"Ryazan State University named after S.A. Yesenin"

Faculty of Natural Geography

Department of Ecology and Nature Management

abstract on the topic
"International organizations and programs
for the protection of nature"

I've done the work:

Dolotina Maria Alexandrovna

Specialty ecology

3 course group D

Ryazan 2011

Content

Introduction.

Environmental protection is an international task.

international organizations and programs for nature protection:

- Organizations of the UN system;

- intergovernmental organizations;

- non-governmental and financial organizations;

- monitoring and observation systems.

4. International treaties.

5. Conclusion.

6. List of references.

Introduction

Environmental protection is an international challenge

INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS OF THE UN SYSTEM

Intergovernmental organizations
OECD- Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development - Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Year of creation: 1961 Participants: 24 states. Objectives: to promote economic and social development. Main activity: analysis and solution of environmental problems (air pollution, hazardous waste management, industrial waste treatment, information exchange); adoption of recommendations on certain aspects
environmental protection; provision of advisory services, financial and technical assistance; information exchange.
Arctic Council- The Arctic Council. Year of establishment: 1996 Participants: Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russian Federation, Sweden, USA, Association of Indigenous Peoples of the North, Siberia and Far East of the Russian Federation (RAPON), Inuit Circumpolar Conference (ICC) are also permanent participants and the Saami Council. Objectives: to provide a mechanism for resolving common issues and developments relating to the governments of the Arctic countries and the peoples of the Arctic; to ensure the development and coordination of cooperation between the Arctic countries on the problems of the Arctic; manage and coordinate programs created under the auspices of AEPC; define the mandate, as well as lead and coordinate the program for the sustainable development of the Arctic; disseminate information, promote education and stimulate interest in Arctic issues. Main activities: protection of the Arctic environment and sustainable development as a means of improving the economic, social and cultural well-being of the North; integration of AEPS programs
AMAP- Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Program (AMAP). Year of creation: 1991 Participants: members of the Arctic Council. Objectives: to provide reliable and necessary information on the state and threats of the Arctic environment, to provide scientific advice on actions that should be taken to support the efforts of the governments of the Arctic countries to implement corrective and preventive actions related to pollutants. Main activities: preparation of an assessment of the state of the Arctic environment, taking into account stable organic compounds, radionuclides, heavy metals and acidifying substances; research on hydrocarbon pollution, climate change, the ozone layer and ultraviolet radiation; monitoring and assessment of pollution sources in the Arctic region and at lower latitudes; study of the ways of distribution of pollutants to the Arctic, levels, directions, duration of existence and their impact on the Arctic ecosystems and population.
CAFF- Program for the protection of Arctic flora and fauna - Conservation of Arctic Flora and Fauna (CAFF). Year and place of adoption: 1992, Ottawa, Canada. Participants: 8 states of the Arctic region. Objectives: conservation of Arctic flora and fauna, their diversity and habitat conditions; protection of the Arctic ecosystems from the threat of negative impacts; improving legislation, norms and practices for the conservation and management of the Arctic; integration of the interests of the Arctic in the global environmental context. Main activities: conservation of Arctic biodiversity; integration of the indigenous population and their knowledge into CAFF; development and implementation of conservation strategies and action plans, for example for the Circumpolar Protected Areas Network (CPAN); analysis and development of recommendations to prevent the threat to biodiversity in the Arctic; mapping traditional ecological knowledge about the beluga, etc.
REC- Regional Environmental Center for Central and Eastern Europe (REC). Year of establishment: 1990 Participants: 15 states of Central and Eastern Europe (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Yugoslavia), USA, Commission of the European Communities. Objectives: to promote cooperation between various environmental groups and movements, to provide financial assistance in solving environmental problems and infrastructure development problems for environmental organizations. Main activities: implementation of projects to prevent degradation and restore environmental resources; promoting the development of a market economy; improving skills in solving environmental problems; ecological education and enlightenment; information exchange.
Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development of the Inter-Parliamentary Union- Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development. Inter-Pahiamentary Union. Year of creation: 1889 Participants: parliamentarians from 131 states. Objectives: to promote the process of sustainable development at the national and international levels. Main activity: implementation at the parliamentary level of the recommendations of the UN Conference on Environment and Development (Rio de Janeiro, 1992), collection of information on actions to implement the recommendations.
BMO- World Meteorological Organization - World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Year of establishment: 1947. Participants: 166 states. Goals: development of international cooperation in the field of meteorological observations; assistance in the rapid exchange of information; standardization of meteorological observations, publication of reports and statistical data. Main activities: development of a worldwide weather observation and telecommunications system; implementation of world programs on climate, atmospheric and environmental research, hydrology and water resources
alpine action- Alps Action. Year of foundation: 1990 Participants: 7 states of Europe. Objectives: to unite business circles, scientific and public organizations for the implementation of projects to preserve the culture and natural environment of the Alpine region. Main activities: interaction in the implementation of more than 30 projects, including 4 reforestation projects "Green Roof for Europe", an international campaign for the reintroduction of rare species of animals; implementation of information and educational programs, including the awarding of annual awards for the best journalistic work on television, in the press and photography.
European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization- European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO).
International Council for Hunting and Game Conservation- International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC).
International Bureau of Waterfowl and Wetland Studies(IBW) - International Waterfowl and Wetlands Research Bureau (IWRB).
PAME- Working Group on Protection of the Arctic Marine Environment (PAME).
OSCE- Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (until 01.01.95 Conference) - Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).
European Union- European Union (EU).
Council of Europe(CE) - Coundl of Europe.
Non-Governmental and Environmental Organizations
However, be that as it may, not only the governments of various countries, but also ordinary citizens are concerned about the problems of the state of the environment. This concern is expressed in the creation of non-governmental organizations:
ACOPS- Advisory Committee on Protection of the Sea (ACOPS). Year of establishment: 1952 Members: This is one of the first non-governmental organizations. Objectives: to encourage the conclusion of international agreements to reduce oil pollution of the seas, including from sources located on land, as well as to address issues related to other aspects of coastal and marine environmental degradation. Main activities: research and quantitative assessment of the problem of marine pollution; developing policy options and conducting research in collaboration with central and local governments and intergovernmental agencies; conducting educational programs on all issues in the scientific, legal and political aspects of the problem; supporting the establishment of a dialogue between North and South and ensuring the implementation of environmental agreements; conducting public awareness campaigns through high-level international conferences.
WWF- World Wildlife Fund - World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) - World Wide Fund for Nature - World Wildlife Fund - Wildlife Fund. Year of establishment: 1961 Participants: 5.3 million permanent sponsors and national associations from five continents. Goals: prevention of degradation of the natural environment; assistance in building a future with a harmonious coexistence of man and nature; attracting financial resources to protect nature and save certain species of flora and fauna from extinction. Main activity: conservation of diversity (genetic, species and ecosystem); ensuring a sustainable model for the use of renewable natural resources; promotion of pollution reduction, rational use of resources and energy; development of strategic approaches to the problem of nature conservation.
Wetlands International- International Organization for the Conservation of Wetlands (Board; Executive Committee; Wetlands International America; Wetlands International Africa, Europe, Middle East (AEME); Wetlands International Asia, Pacific Ocean) - Wetlands International. Year of establishment: 1995 Participants: three parent structures - International Waterfowl and Wetlands Research Bureau (IWRB), the Asian Wetland Bureau, and Wetlands for the Americas. Goals: influence, support and assistance to organizations of the world in the preservation of the integrity and diversity of nature; ensuring reasonable and environmentally sustainable use of natural resources. Main activity: research related to the issues of the Ramsar Convention, the African-Eurasian Agreement on the Conservation of Migratory Birds (AEWA) within the framework of the Bonn Convention (CMS).
Greenpeace- Greenpeace International. Established: 1971 Members: Closely connected network of national and regional offices - 1,330 employees in 43 offices in 30 countries. Objectives: To ensure the Earth's ability to reproduce life in all its diversity. Main activities: campaigns on biodiversity, atmospheric protection, anti-nuclear, toxic substances, etc.
Black Sea Economic Cooperation Pact- Black Sea Economic Co-operation pact (Organization) (BSEC). Year of establishment: 1992 Participants: 11 - Russia, Ukraine, Turkey, Georgia, Romania, Bulgaria, Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Moldova and Greece (in 1998 Germany expressed interest in obtaining observer status). Goals: ensuring peace, stability and prosperity in the Black Sea; promotion of friendly and good neighborly relations. Main activities: holding international summits, coordinating the activities of the Black Sea Bank, the Black Sea Research Center.
European Environment Office- European Environmental Bureau (EEB). Year of establishment: 1974 Participants: 75 non-governmental organizations from 12 European countries. Objectives: to promote actions for the protection of the environment, the conservation and restoration of natural resources. Main activities: dissemination of information on environmental policy, nature and wildlife protection, environmental pollution control; development and implementation of educational programs.
International Organization "Green Cross" (IGC)- Green Cross International. Year of establishment: 1993 Participants: national organizations and preparatory committees in 50 countries of the world, individuals. Objectives: implementation of measures to combat man-made environmental disasters, promotion of the exchange of environmental knowledge and technologies, support in the development of environmental legislation. Main activities: implementation of projects on various aspects of environmental protection, including the destruction of toxic substances, the creation of a disaster warning system, environmental education, and the development of an international environmental code.
Trust no protection of the Earth- Earthtrust. Year of creation: 1976 Participants: business circles, governmental and non-governmental organizations of the countries of the world. Objectives: protection of wild animals and habitats. Main activities: conducting law enforcement campaigns and initiatives, including the prohibition of the use of drift nets; to prohibit illegal whaling; for the protection of endangered species of birds, turtles, dolphins, seals and their habitats; for the Protection of Tiger Populations and Other Species of the Asian Continent.
Center for our common future– Center for Our Common Future. Year of foundation: 1988 Participants: 150 organizations of the world specializing in various fields of knowledge and activity. Objectives: to implement the concept of "sustainable development", set out in the report "Our Common Future" of the World Commission on Environment and Development. Main activities: Sharing information on global actions related to sustainable development, providing information necessary for decision-making and establishing partnerships in the implementation of Agenda 21.
Roman club is a non-governmental organization that unites about 100 members from around the world: entrepreneurs, politicians, experts, scientists and cultural figures. Objectives: development of a strategy for achieving environmental safety. It was created in 1968. on the initiative of the vice president of the Olivetti company, Aurelio Peccei. As a basic principle of its activities, the club adopted the "method of free and wide consideration of ideas and conclusions" developed within the programs of the club. The Club's research on Humanity's Predicament, The Limits to Growth, Beyond the Age of Waste, and others have earned wide acclaim.
BALTIKA 21- Program for the 21st century for the Baltic Sea Region - BALTIC 21 (+ SOG Senior Officials Group).
International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives– International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI).
International Union of Forest Organizations- Intentional Union of Forestry Research Organizations (IUFRO).
Federation of Natural and National Parks of Europe- Federation of Nature and National Parks of Europe.

Financial institutions

Conservation of nature, unfortunately, unlike the process of its pollution, is a rather expensive occupation, often beyond the means of not only non-governmental organizations, but even individual countries. Then various financial organizations come to the rescue, supporting various environmental projects:

GEF- Global Environment Facility = Global Environment Facility (GEF). Year of establishment: 1990 Participants: 142 (24 developed and 118 developing) countries of the world. Objectives: financial support for projects in the field of environmental protection. Main activities: providing financial and technical assistance in the implementation of projects to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect biodiversity, protect international waters and protect the ozone layer; establishing criteria for project selection; selection of priority areas of activity

Monitoring and observation systems
However, all the organizations listed above, as well as other environmental organizations, do not always have the opportunity to monitor all the changes taking place in the environment, and here monitoring and observation systems come to their aid. The most famous among them:
etc.................

Over the past century, mankind has made an unprecedented technological breakthrough. There are technologies that can significantly change the world. If earlier human impact on nature could not upset the fragile ecological balance, then new ingenious inventions allowed him to achieve this unfortunate result. As a result, many species of animals were destroyed, many living beings are on the verge of extinction, large-scale climate changes begin on Earth.

The results of human activity cause such monstrous damage to the environment that more and more people begin to worry about the future of our planet. Numerous public organizations for the protection of nature have become the result of growing anxiety. Today they conduct their activities everywhere, monitor the preservation of the unique natural heritage, uniting millions of enthusiasts around the globe. But this was not always the case, the pioneers of the eco-movement have gone a long way to achieve the current state of affairs.

The birth of conservation organizations

The beginning of the creation of the international ecological community can be considered 1913, when the first international conference dedicated to the protection of nature was held in Switzerland. 18 countries took part in it, but the meeting was purely scientific in nature, not assuming any action in 10 years later, the first International Congress for the Protection of Nature is being held in Paris. Then the International Bureau for the Protection of Nature opened in Belgium. However, it did not try to somehow influence the ecological situation in the world, but simply collected statistical data on nature reserves and environmental legislation.

Then, in 1945, it was created which took environmental cooperation between states to a whole new level. In 1948, a special branch was created at the UN - the International Council for the Protection of Nature. It was he who was responsible for the international partnership in environmental protection. Scientists suddenly began to understand that it is impossible to solve environmental problems at the level of one country, because an ecosystem is a delicate mechanism full of non-obvious, intricate relationships. A change in the natural balance in one place on the planet can have a catastrophic effect on other, seemingly very distant places. The need for a joint solution of environmental problems has become obvious.

Further development

In the future, international has become one of the most important topics for discussion at major scientific and cultural events. In 1972, Sweden hosted the UN Conference on the Environment, which was attended by 113 countries. It was at this event that the foundations of the modern conservation movement were laid. This day has become an international holiday - World Environment Day.

Then came years of stagnation in the environmental movement, when public conservation organizations began to receive less and less funding, and the popularity of their ideas began to wane. But in the early 1980s, the situation began to change for the better, resulting in the 1992 UN Conference on Environment and Development in Brazil. This event was held in Rio de Janeiro and continued the work started in Sweden. The conference adopted the basic concepts affecting the theme of the further harmonious development of mankind. The model of sustainable development considered in Rio offers a completely new perspective on the further development of human civilization. It assumes controlled development within certain limits, so as not to harm the environment. The conference in Brazil outlined the activities of nature conservation organizations up to the present day.

Our days

Today, society is greatly alarmed by changes in the environment caused by human activities. Many countries have adopted a series of laws to control and organizations such as Greenpeace or the World Wildlife Fund have gained millions of supporters around the world. Practically in any more or less large country there are representative offices of international organizations for the protection of nature. Internet communities and thematic sites allow you to get quick and convenient access to information related to the environment. The Internet also allows coordinating the efforts of people all over the planet - here everyone can make a contribution to protecting the environment.

Science also does not stand still, new inventions are constantly appearing, bringing the era of clean energy closer. Many countries have begun to actively use natural energy: wind energy, water, geothermal sources, the sun, etc. Of course, man-made emissions have not decreased, and corporations are still mercilessly exploiting nature for profit. But the general interest in the problem of ecology allows us to hope for a brighter future. Let's look at the largest public organizations for the protection of nature.

"Greenpeace"

Greenpeace is by far the most popular environmental company in the world. It appeared thanks to enthusiasts who oppose the uncontrolled testing of nuclear weapons. The first members of Greenpeace, who are also its founders, managed to achieve an end to nuclear testing by the Americans in the area of ​​the island of Amchitka. Further protests led to the fact that France also stopped testing nuclear weapons, and other countries later joined it.

Despite the fact that Greenpeace was created to protest against nuclear tests, its activities are not limited to this. Members of the organization hold protests all over the world, called upon our planet from suicidal and stupid human activities. In this way, Greenpeace activists were able to stop the brutal whaling that had been carried out on an industrial scale in the last century.

Modern protest actions of this unusual organization are aimed at combating air pollution. Despite the fact that the harm that emissions from factories and factories cause to the atmosphere has been proven, corporations and their unscrupulous owners do not care deeply about all life on this planet, they only care about profit. Therefore, Greenpeace activists carry out their actions to stop the barbaric attitude towards the environment. Sadly, it is likely that their protests will never be heard.

World Wildlife Fund

There are a wide variety of conservation organizations. The list of non-governmental associations would be incomplete without mentioning the World Wildlife Fund. This organization operates in more than 40 countries around the world. In terms of the number of supporters, the Wildlife Fund overtakes even Greenpeace. Millions of people support their ideas, many of them are fighting for the preservation of all forms of life on earth, not only in word but also in deed, more than 1000 environmental projects around the world are an excellent confirmation of this.

Like many other public organizations for the protection of nature, the World Wildlife Fund sets its main task on Earth. Members of this environmental organization are trying to protect animals from the harmful effects of humans.

United Nations Environment Program

Undoubtedly, the United Nations is the head of public and state organizations for the protection of nature. It is she who is the most ambitious. Almost every UN meeting touches upon issues of the environment and international cooperation in improving the environmental situation on the planet. The department dealing with environmental issues is called UNEP. Its tasks include control over pollution of the atmosphere and the oceans, conservation of species diversity.

This system of nature conservation does its job not only in words, many important international laws designed to protect the environment were adopted precisely thanks to the UN. UNEP has been able to get closer monitoring of the movement of hazardous substances, and a commission has been set up to oversee efforts to stop this scourge.

Russian organizations for nature protection

Some of the international environmental movements have been described above. Now let's look at what organizations are engaged in nature protection in Russia. Despite the fact that the popularity of domestic environmental organizations is significantly lower than that of their international counterparts, these societies still fulfill their function and attract new enthusiasts.

The All-Russian Society for the Conservation of Nature is a large and influential organization dealing with environmental problems in the Russian Federation. It performs many different tasks, one of the main ones is promoting knowledge about ecology to the masses, educating people, drawing attention to environmental problems. VOOP is also engaged in scientific activities and monitors compliance with environmental legislation.

The All-Russian Society for the Protection of Nature was founded in 1924. The fact that this organization was able to survive to this day, while increasing its number to three million people, shows the genuine interest of people in the environmental problem. There are other Russian associations of environmentalists, but VOOP is by far the largest all-Russian organization for nature conservation.

Nature Conservation Brigade

The nature protection squad was created in 1960 and continues its work to this day. Moreover, some of the major Russian universities have joined this organization and created their own squads. Today, DOP is engaged in the same activities as other nature protection organizations in Russia. They carry out explanatory work, trying to improve the education of citizens in the environmental sphere. In addition, the nature protection team is engaged in protest actions against the destruction of the wild corners of Russia, helps in the fight against forest fires and makes its contribution to science.

The Future of Conservation Organizations

There are a wide variety of organizations for the protection of nature, the list of some of their non-governmental representatives is as follows:

1. World Wildlife Fund.
2. "Greenpeace".
3. United Nations Program (UNEP).
4. World Society for the Protection of Animals.
5. Global Nest.

The number of such associations is growing every year, they are gaining more and more popularity. This is not surprising, since the consequences of the barbaric expansion carried out by man are becoming more and more visible. Scientists and public figures, like most people on Earth, have long understood that something needs to be changed before we turn our planet into a lifeless dump. Of course, today the opinions of the people are not significant in any of the existing states, which allows industrial magnates to continue their dirty work, taking advantage of impunity and their own shortsightedness.

However, there is still hope for a brighter future. With the advent of the Internet, non-governmental conservation organizations have been able to carry out their educational activities with millions of people. Now everyone who cares about the environment can communicate with like-minded people and get any necessary information about the environment, it has become much easier to unite supporters and coordinate protests. Of course, most people still remain the victims of years of propaganda that casts the green movement in an unsightly light. However, the situation can change at any second, because environmental organizations have become a force to be reckoned with.

What can be done to protect nature?

Loud speeches about protecting the environment and preserving species diversity can excite the minds of young enthusiasts. But, unfortunately, this is all that words are capable of, the real benefit to nature can only be brought by actions. Of course, you can find out which organizations are engaged in the protection of nature in your city, and plunge headlong into their useful activities. This path is by no means suitable for everyone, so it is best to start saving nature by stopping destroying and polluting it with your own hands.

Everyone has ever seen beautiful forest glades, littered with piles of garbage after someone's stormy rest. So, before you start nature, you first need to stop harming it. How can you encourage others to take care of the environment if you yourself are polluting the environment? The garbage collected after the rest, the fire extinguished in time, the trees that you did not kill for the sake of firewood - all this is very simple, but brings a wonderful result.

If everyone remembers that the Earth is our home, and the fate of all mankind depends on its condition, then the world will be transformed. For those who want to be more actively involved in protecting the environment, numerous Russian environmental organizations are ready to provide such an opportunity. The era of change has come, today it is decided what we will leave to our descendants - a radioactive dump or a beautiful green garden. The choice is ours!

General Assembly United Nations (United Nations Organization). It plays the main role in organizing international environmental cooperation. It defines the main directions of the environmental policy of the international community.

UNEP— United Nations Environment Program. This is a specialized agency of the United Nations that deals with the protection of the biosphere. It was created by the UN General Assembly on December 15, 1972 on the recommendation of the Stockholm Conference. UNEP has a Board of Governors composed of state representatives, a Council for the Coordination of Biosphere Protection, and an Environmental Fund. Advice managers identified the following seven main areas in the field of ecology: 1) human settlements, human health, sanitation of the natural environment; 2) protection of lands, waters, prevention of desertification; 3) oceans; 4) protection of nature, wild animals, genetic resources; 5) energy; 6) education, professional training; 7) trade, economy, technology.

ECOSOC — economic and social council UN. He decides on funding issues.

UNESCO — United Nations Organization for Culture, Science and Education. Formed in 1948 with headquarters in Paris. It carries out: a) management of the environmental programs "Man and the Biosphere" (MAB - Man and Biosphere), International Program for Environmental Education, International Hydrological Program, etc.; b) accounting and organization of the protection of natural objects classified as world heritage; c) assistance to countries in the development of environmental education, the training of environmentalists.

Under the auspices of UNESCO, the International UNESCO Chair "Environmental Education in Siberia" was opened at the Altai State Technical University.

IAEA - International Atomic Energy Agency It was formed in 1957. It develops the Rules for the construction and operation of nuclear power plants, conducts an examination of designed and operating nuclear power plants, assesses the impact of nuclear materials on the environment, establishes radiation safety standards, and checks their implementation.

IUCN — International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources. It was founded in 1948. It is a non-governmental organization with representatives from more than 100 countries. From the Russian Federation, IUCN members are the Ministry of Agriculture and the All-Russian Society for Nature Conservation. The main tasks of the union are: a) preservation of natural ecosystems, flora and fauna; b) preservation of rare and endangered species of plants and animals, natural monuments; c) organization of nature reserves, reserves, national natural parks; d) environmental education. At the initiative of the IUCN, the Red Book of rare and endangered species of plants and animals is being maintained, and the program "World Conservation Strategy" has been developed.

WHO - World Health Organization. It was founded in 1946. The WHO is studying the problems of improving cities, organizing recreation and sanatorium treatment of citizens, and participating in international programs to improve the sanitary and hygienic conditions of human life. It carries out sanitary and epidemiological monitoring of the human environment, summarizes data on the incidence of people depending on the state of the environment, conducts a sanitary and hygienic examination of the natural environment and assesses its quality. In its activities, WHO interacts with UNEP, IAEA, WMO and other environmental organizations.

FAO - Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Founded in 1945. The scope of its activities is agriculture and world food resources. She deals with environmental problems in agriculture: the protection and use of land, water resources, forests, wildlife, biological resources of the oceans. FAO prepared a soil map of the world, thanks to which the World Soil Charter was adopted, international conferences were held on population, food, combating land desertification, and protecting water resources. FAO participates in the development of many environmental programs, actively cooperates with UNEP, UNESCO, IUCN.

GEMS is a global environmental monitoring system. The system is coordinated by UNEP. GEMS implements five programs: atmospheric monitoring, long-range transport of pollutants, human health, the oceans, and renewable land resources. GEMS includes WMO, WHO, FAO, UNESCO.

WMO is the United Nations World Meteorological Organization. It was created in 1947. It studies and generalizes the degree of human impact on the weather and climate of the planet as a whole and for individual regions. WMO operates within the framework of GEMS - the global environmental monitoring system

IMO - International Maritime Organization. It develops and coordinates with it the main principles of international policy for the protection of the marine environment. IMO takes part in the development of international conventions to combat marine pollution by oil and other harmful substances. The IMO includes the Marine Environment Protection Committee.

International organizations make a significant contribution to environmental protection. Of course, the most tangible role is played by the UN and its specialized agencies.

United Nations at present, it is the center of concentration of all forms of environmental cooperation between states. The UN has a whole system of bodies that are engaged in the development of international environmental activities of states. The General Assembly has a Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation, a Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space, and others.

Another body of the UN, in which a significant place is occupied by the coordination of cooperation between states in the field of nature protection, is the Economic and Social Council. It undertakes studies and reports on international environmental issues and makes recommendations on any aspect of this problem to the General Assembly, the members of the United Nations and the specialized agencies concerned.

United Nations issues Education, Science and Culture (UNESCO) developed the international program "Man and the Biosphere" and coordinates its implementation. Within its framework, the Convention on the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage of 1972, the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, mainly as a habitat for waterfowl, 1971, were developed. and etc.

World Health Organization (WHO) studies the problem of atmospheric air pollution, develops uniform indicators of air pollution, analyzes the legislation of individual countries on this issue, etc.

International Maritime Organization (IMO) deals with the protection of the marine environment, develops conventions for the protection of the marine environment and convenes international conferences for the protection of the oceans.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) develops technical projects for the protection of lands, forests, waters, flora and fauna and proposes them to the Member States for guidance, and also develops draft conventions for the protection of these objects.

Important technical and legal norms and rules for the protection of the environment from aircraft noise are regularly approved International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) carries out the program "Nuclear safety and environmental protection", its purpose is to ensure the safety of the use of nuclear energy and protect humans and the environment from nuclear radiation, radioactive and other emissions from nuclear installations.

World Conservation Union actively participated in the development of international norms and rules for the conservation of biological diversity and the management of various components of natural resources. The Union provides great assistance to states in the preparation of national strategies for environmental protection and the implementation of their field projects.

The Union actively participates in the international rule-making process. He has drafted many existing conventions.

In addition to universal organizations, many regional organizations of general and special competence are closely involved in the problems of environmental protection.

The main organizational body of the EU in the environmental field is European Environment Agency.

The priority issues in the Agency's activities are: air quality and atmospheric emissions; water quality, pollutants and water resources; state of soil, fauna, flora and biocurrents; land use and natural resources; waste management; noise pollution; chemicals harmful to the environment; coast protection.