Pollution of air, water, and soil threatens health, human rights, and sustainable development. In 2021, air pollution was the second leading cause of death, responsible for 8.1 million deaths, mostly in low- and middle-income countries, highlighting global inequalities in environmental health. Strengthening pollution laws and enforcement is a key first step in addressing these challenges.

Funded by the EU, this manual guides governments, civil society, and stakeholders in conducting national legal environment assessments (LEAs) for health and pollution. It provides steps to identify legal frameworks, review policies, and engage key actors. Strengthening legislation can help mitigate pollution, protect public health, and support global commitments like the 2030 Agenda and Paris Agreement. Additional UNDP resources include the Methodology for Developing Household and Ambient Air Pollution Investment Cases and Pollution and Health: Guidance Note for Parliamentarian Action.