United Nations University (UNU)
The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organisation. The mission of UNU is to contribute, through collaborative research and education, to efforts to resolve the pressing global problems of human survival, development and welfare that are the concern of the United Nations, its Peoples and Member States.
United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health (UNU-INWEH) is the global water policy think tank, the only Institute within UNU System that focuses entirely and solely on [continental] water issues (i.e. excluding oceans). It is the only entirely water-focused UN entity in Canada. The Institute delivers policy relevant research and training to achieve lasting outcomes in four focus areas:
- Accelerating the implementation of water-related SDGs;
- Activating a technology revolution for water security in the Global South;
- Advancing gender equality for effective water management; and
- Managing water and climate-related risks
UNU-INWEH amplifies its global reach as the think tank of reference on global water issues by:
- Producing policy relevant research that has development impact;
- Developing practical tools that can scale;
- Actively engaging with global media
- Equipping the next generation of water experts with essential skills; and
- Working in coalition with governments and global networks to spread success.
United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) carries out research on risks and adaptation related to environmental hazards and global change including water-related hazards such as floods, droughts and salinity intrusion. The institute’s research promotes policies and programmes to reduce these risks, while taking into account the interplay between environmental and societal factors. Research areas include climate change adaptation incorporating water-related challenges, ecosystem services and environmental deterioration processes including water scarcity and water quality detoriation. UNU-EHS develops and uses models and tools to analyse vulnerability and risks linked to natural hazards aiming to connect solutions to development pathways.
United Nations University Institute for Integrated Management of Material Fluxes and of Resources (UNU-FLORES) develops strategies to resolve pressing problems in the sustainable use and integrated management of environmental resources, particularly water, soil and waste. Focusing on the needs of the United Nations and its Member States, particularly developing countries and emerging economies, the Institute engages in research, capacity development, advanced teaching and training as well as dissemination of knowledge. In all activities, UNU-FLORES strives to fulfil its mission of advancing a Nexus Approach to the sustainable management of environmental resources.
