Disasters and Conflicts

UNEP: Disasters and Conflicts

According to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), more than 2,500 natural and man-made disasters and 35 major conflicts have occurred in the last decade alone. These disasters and conflicts have displaced billions of people, destroyed infrastructure and ecosystems and negatively impacted the well-being of local communities for years as the resources they depend on for their livelihoods were devastated. 

The environment is one of the key components of conflict and disaster risk reduction, because changes in the environment can cause and/or increase vulnerability to natural disasters. It may also be a motivating factor behind conflicts over access to natural resources, such as oil or fresh water.    

How Lions Can Help

• Work with local authorities to organize disaster risk reduction projects

• Assist local authorities with environmental assessments

• Develop a Lions ALERT disaster preparedness plan

• Participate in LCIF Emergency Grant Program 

This UNEP fact sheet provides additional information about conflicts and disasters.