Children are exposed to a series of environmental threats to their health, physical and mental development – even their survival. Preliminary estimates suggest that up to one-third of the global burden of disease can be attributed to negative environmental indicators, such as polluted water and air. The good news is that morbidity and mortality due to unhealthy environmental conditions are largely preventable by taking decisive action and finding innovative, healthy, cost-effective and sustainable ways to develop and improve our livelihoods.

As this book outlines, prevention is the only sustainable solution: a healthy future for our children will be ensured only through safeguarding the environment. By illustrating the link between the environment and the well-being of our children, Children in the New Millennium intends to raise awareness and deepen our understanding of environmental health issues. Providing an informed basis for action and practical recommendations at different levels, the three United Nations agencies involved with the production of Children in the New Millennium hope to inspire everyone who cares about children to take decisive action that will improve both their health and that of the environment.

This book represents a joint effort between the United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP), the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), and the World Health Organization (WHO).