The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is built on a heritage of service to the environment. UNEP's uniqueness lies in its advocacy of environmental concerns within the international system. In this, it makes a particular effort to nurture partnerships with other UN bodies possessing complementary skills and delivery capabilities and enhancing the participation of civil society in the achievement of sustainable development.

In a world where globalization is no longer a process but a condition and a reality, UNEP concentrates its efforts on the areas which are of key relevance to the work and mandate of UNEP. These areas of concentration include: environmental monitoring, assessment, information and research including early warning; enhanced coordination of environmental conventions and development of environmental policy instruments; freshwater; technology transfer and industry; and support to Africa.

UNEP in Russia

The cooperation of the Russian Federation (formerly USSR) and United Nations Environment Programme has been carried out since 1976. The Ministry of Natural Resources of the Russian Federation (MNR) is the head institution in charge of cooperation with UNEP.

In January 2001 the Executive Director of UNEP, Mr. K. Toepfer officially opened the Moscow Branch of UNEP Regional Office for Europe.