HIS GLOBAL CONCLAVE

UNITED NATIONS ENVIRONMENT PROGRAMME

UNEP BACKGROUND GUIDE

TOPICS:

Topic 1: Disarmament for Sustainable Peace

Topic 2: Nuclear Non-Proliferation and Energy Security

Approved by: Secretariat

Authorized by: EB, Executive Board
Edited by: Sainimal G E

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 TABLE OF CONTENT

TABLE OF CONTENT 2
SECTION I | LETTER FROM THE SECRETARIAT 4
SECTION II | LETTER FROM THE EB 6
SECTION III | HISTORY OF THE COMMITTEE 6
SECTION IV | INTRODUCTION TO THE AGENDA 7
SECTION V | KEY TREATIES AND ACHIEVEMENTS 8
SECTION VI | IMPORTANT EVENTS 9
SECTION VII | CLOSING REMARKS 9

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 SECTION I | LETTER FROM THE SECRETARIAT

Greetings Delegates!!!

On behalf of the Secretariat, we are thrilled to welcome you to the 1st Edition of the HIS Global
Conclave. This event promises to be an enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression. The
Conclave aims to showcase your creativity, diplomacy, and problem-solving skills as you engage in
discussions around global challenges.

This is not just a simulation, but a unique gathering of bright minds from diverse backgrounds,
tackling pressing issues with a focus on the Sustainable Development Goals. Our six esteemed
committees are designed to address problems not commonly explored in other MUNs, and we eagerly
anticipate your innovative solutions.

Beyond debates, the Conclave offers a platform to display your public-speaking, networking, and
leadership skills while experiencing the richness of cultures from around the world. Active
participation is key to making your committee a success and truly embracing the spirit of being a
"MUNner."

We at HIS appreciate the enthusiasm students bring to international diplomacy, and we have worked
diligently to ensure a seamless experience for all. Your involvement is the first step toward shaping the
next generation of world leaders.

We can’t wait to meet you all on November 15th for what promises to be productive and engaging
discussions!

Warm regards,
Akhil Gokul
Secretary General

Rehan Saied
Deputy Secretary General

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 SECTION II | LETTER FROM THE EB

Dear Delegates,

On behalf of the UNEP committee, we hope this letter finds you well. It is with great pleasure that we
welcome you to the Hindustan International School Global Conclave (HISGC) 2024! We are
excited to serve as your Chair and Vice Chairs for this year’s UNEP committee and eagerly anticipate
seeing your commitment to environmental diplomacy, innovation, and solution-building on
November 15.

This year’s topics are:

1. Global Carbon Emission Reductions

2. Financing Climate Action

These issues were selected to challenge your perspectives and inspire thoughtful discussions on
sustainable development and environmental protection. As we address global climate challenges, your
contributions will play a critical role in crafting meaningful strategies for environmental resilience and
sustainability.

Your expertise and collaboration in this committee will be invaluable, and we encourage you to bring
forward bold ideas and work closely with fellow delegates to devise impactful solutions. Please know
that the Executive Board is here to support you at every step.

Once again, welcome to HISGC 2024. We look forward to meeting each of you and witnessing your
commitment to a greener, more sustainable future.

Please be assured that the committee EB members are here to support you.

Sincerely,

Chair- Kavya Vijay

Vice Chair-Aparajith.S

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 SECTION III | HISTORY OF THE COMMITTEE

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) was established in 1972 as the
leading global authority on environmental issues, born from the landmark United
Nations Conference on the Human Environment in Stockholm. Recognizing the
growing need for international cooperation to address environmental degradation,
UNEP was created to guide and coordinate global efforts toward environmental
sustainability, conservation, and the protection of natural resources.

UNEP’s mandate includes assessing global environmental conditions, promoting

sustainable development, and encouraging nations to implement environmentally
sound policies. Over the years, UNEP has spearheaded pivotal initiatives such as the
Montreal Protocol to protect the ozone layer, the Convention on Biological Diversity,
and the Paris Agreement on climate change, all of which have shaped international
environmental standards and policies.

Today, UNEP faces evolving challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and
pollution. The organization remains committed to adapting its strategies to address
these pressing issues, promoting sustainable solutions that uphold environmental
integrity and contribute to a healthier, more resilient world.

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 SECTION IV | INTRODUCTION TO THE AGENDA

Topic 1: Global Carbon Emission Reductions

Reducing global carbon emissions is crucial for mitigating climate change and its far-reaching
impacts on the planet. The increasing levels of greenhouse gases necessitate immediate action
to prevent catastrophic environmental consequences. This agenda advocates for international
cooperation in implementing effective carbon reduction strategies, including the transition to
renewable energy, enhancing energy efficiency, and promoting sustainable practices across all
sectors. By setting ambitious yet attainable targets, countries can collectively strive to limit
global warming, protect ecosystems, and foster a sustainable future.

Topic 2: Financing Climate Action

Financing climate action is vital for supporting initiatives that address climate change and
promote sustainability. Adequate funding enables nations, particularly those with limited
resources, to implement necessary mitigation and adaptation measures. This agenda
emphasizes the need for innovative financing solutions, such as green investments, climate
funds, and partnerships, to mobilize resources effectively. Aligning financial flows with climate
goals ensures that investments contribute to emission reductions and sustainable development,
ultimately fostering resilience and safeguarding the environment for future generations.

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 SECTION V | KEY TREATIES AND ACHIEVEMENTS

Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) - Adopted on May 22, 1992

Aims to conserve biological diversity, promote sustainable use of its components, and ensure fair
sharing of benefits arising from genetic resources.
● United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) - Adopted on
May 9, 1992
Establishes a framework for international cooperation to combat climate change and its
impacts, setting the stage for subsequent agreements like the Kyoto Protocol and Paris
Agreement.
● Kyoto Protocol - Adopted on December 11, 1997
A legally binding agreement that commits its parties to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, based
on the premise that global warming exists and human-made CO2 emissions have caused it.
● Paris Agreement - Adopted on December 12, 2015
An international treaty that aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, with
efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
● Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants - Adopted on May 22, 2001
Aims to eliminate or restrict the production and use of persistent organic pollutants (POPs),
harmful chemicals that remain in the environment for long periods.
● Basel Convention on the Control of Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes
and Their Disposal - Adopted on March 22, 1989
Regulates the international trade and disposal of hazardous waste to protect human health and
the environment.
● Ramsar Convention on Wetlands - Adopted on February 2, 1971
Focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands, recognizing their ecological
importance.
● Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer - Adopted on September
16, 1987
An international treaty designed to phase out the production and consumption of substances
responsible for ozone depletion

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 SECTION VI | IMPORTANT EVENTS

Establishment of UNEP (1972): UNEP was established during the United

Nations Conference on the Human Environment held in Stockholm, Sweden,
from June 5 to 16, 1972. It marked the first major international gathering to
address environmental issues and laid the foundation for global environmental
governance.

1. First Global Environmental Outlook Report (1997): UNEP published

its first Global Environmental Outlook (GEO) report in 1997, providing
an integrated assessment of the state of the global environment. This report
set a precedent for future assessments and highlighted critical
environmental challenges.
2. Rio Earth Summit (1992): The United Nations Conference on
Environment and Development (UNCED), also known as the Rio Earth
Summit, took place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from June 3 to 14, 1992. It
produced key documents such as Agenda 21 and the Rio Declaration,
which emphasized sustainable development and the role of UNEP in
promoting it.
3. Kyoto Protocol Adoption (1997): On December 11, 1997, the Kyoto
Protocol was adopted during the third session of the Conference of the
Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC) in Kyoto, Japan. UNEP played a crucial role in supporting
climate action and promoting the protocol's implementation.
4. Establishment of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on
Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) (2012): In April 2012,
the IPBES was established to strengthen the science-policy interface for
biodiversity and ecosystem services. UNEP was instrumental in facilitating

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 its creation, addressing the need for informed decision-making in
biodiversity conservation.
5. UN Environment Assembly (2014): The first UN Environment
Assembly (UNEA) was convened in Nairobi, Kenya, from June 23 to 27,
2014. UNEA serves as the world's highest-level decision-making body on
the environment and provides a platform for addressing global
environmental challenges.
6. Paris Agreement (2015): The Paris Agreement, adopted on December 12,
2015, at the 21st Conference of the Parties to the UNFCCC in Paris,
France, represents a landmark global commitment to combat climate
change. UNEP has been involved in supporting countries in implementing
their climate goals and enhancing ambition.

UNEP’s Emissions Gap Report (annual since 2010): UNEP began

publishing the Emissions Gap Report in 2010, which assesses the gap
between projected greenhouse gas emissions and the levels required to limit
global warming. This annual report has become an essential tool for
policymakers in climate action planning and ambition enhancement.

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 SECTION VII | CLOSING REMARKS

As delegates of the first Hindustan International School Global Conclave, you are
responsible for representing your country, doing proper research on the above topics.
This session presents you with the opportunity to showcase you debating abilities,
diplomacy, critical and analytical skills and the ability to collaborate with other delegates

Good luck delegates!!

Regards,
The DISEC Executive Board.

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