Nearly half of the world’s children face multiple overlapping climate threats
According to a new UNICEF analysis, approximately, half of the global child population, are exposed to at least three climate and environmental hazards simultaneously. The study examined eight threats, including heatwaves, droughts, floods, tropical cyclones, wildfires, coastal flooding, and sand and dust storms. Researchers also found that more than four million children worldwide are exposed to six overlapping hazards, placing them among the most vulnerable populations to climate change.
The most affected regions are concentrated in Africa and Asia
The report identifies the Sahel as one of the regions facing the greatest accumulation of climate risks. More than four million children in this area are exposed to a combination of extreme heat, heatwaves, and sand and dust storms. UNICEF also highlights Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Pakistan among the countries where children experience multiple overlapping hazards. The most common combination globally is drought, extreme heat, and heatwaves, affecti
Climate hazards are disrupting children’s lives and education
Beyond the environmental risks themselves, UNICEF warns that climate-related events are increasingly affecting access to essential services such as education, healthcare, water, and sanitation. The article highlights the experience of Lorna, a student in Papua New Guinea whose schooling was disrupted by severe flooding and landslides. UNICEF argues that children contribute the least to climate change yet bear a disproportionate share of its consequences, reinforcing the need for greater investment in climate adaptation and resilient public services.
Reference
Bunting, M. W. C. (2026, June 16). Half of world’s children exposed to at least three climate hazards, Unicef says. The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/jun/16/half-of-worlds-children-exposed-to-at-least-three-climate-hazards-unicef-says