Nearly every child in the world is now exposed to at least one major climate or environmental hazard, while around half face three or more overlapping threats, according to a new analysis by UNICEF.
The report paints a worrying picture of how climate change is increasingly affecting children’s health, education and overall well-being. From extreme heat and floods to air pollution, water scarcity and disease outbreaks, young people are bearing the brunt of environmental crises despite contributing the least to global emissions.
According to UNICEF, more than one billion children live in countries facing extremely high environmental risks. The agency found that many children are simultaneously exposed to multiple hazards, making them particularly vulnerable to long-term physical and mental health challenges.
Extreme heat emerged as one of the fastest-growing threats. Rising temperatures are disrupting education, increasing health risks and affecting children’s ability to play, learn and develop. Floods, storms and droughts are also becoming more frequent and severe, damaging homes, schools and essential infrastructure.
Air pollution remains another major concern. Millions of children continue to breathe unhealthy air, increasing the risk of respiratory illnesses and other health complications. In many regions, unsafe water and poor sanitation are further compounding the challenges faced by vulnerable communities.
UNICEF warned that climate-related disasters often force families to leave their homes, disrupting children’s education and exposing them to additional risks such as malnutrition, disease and psychological stress. The impact is particularly severe in low-income countries, where resources to adapt and recover are often limited.
The agency called on governments to place children at the centre of climate policies and invest in climate-resilient schools, healthcare systems and social protection programmes. It also urged world leaders to accelerate efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen adaptation measures.
UNICEF stressed that protecting children from climate hazards is not only a moral responsibility but also essential for safeguarding future generations and ensuring sustainable development worldwide.
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