Children's unique vulnerabilities
Across the world, climate change and environmental degradation are threatening child survival, health and well-being. During pregnancy and the early years of life, children’s bodies and systems are developing rapidly. For example, the developing brain witnesses the birth of billions of brain cells, which grow, travel to specific areas in the brain and make connections that give us the capacity to sense, move, communicate and learn. These early years are known as ‘windows of vulnerability’ for children’s development. Exposures during childhood can have long-term health consequences, potentially leading to chronic diseases later in life. Adverse effects on the developing brain, respiratory system and immune system can manifest as cognitive deficits, respiratory disorders and increased susceptibility to infections.
Explore children's unique vulnerabilities
Children face unique vulnerabilities to environmental hazards at every stage of life
Across the world, climate change and environmental degradation are threatening child survival, health and well-being. Given children’s unique metabolism, physiology and developmental needs, no group is more vulnerable to environmental harm. Exposure can impact children early and have a lifelong effect. The Fragile Beginnings series examines the growing body of research on the unique vulnerabilities of children: in utero and at birth, during infancy and childhood and throughout adolescence. Its purpose is to enable evidence-based advocacy and action on children’s environmental health.
Poor and marginalized children are the most at risk
Nearly 92 per cent of pollution-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries, with children being affected the most.
Children who live in the poorest communities and those affected by conflict are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and degrading environments. These children are the most at risk when climate-driven disasters strike because they live in slums, informal settlements or near industrial areas, or are working in toxic dumpsites and hazardous agricultural or mining operations.
Children who are most vulnerable to climate change and environmental degradation include indigenous children, internally displaced children, children with disabilities and children living in poverty.
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