Following a disaster or conflict, an environmental emergency can occur when people's health and livelihoods are at risk due to the release of hazardous and noxious substances, or because of significant damage to the ecosystem.
Examples include fires, oil spills, chemical accidents, toxic waste dumping and groundwater pollution.
According to the International Disaster Database (EM-DAT), between 2003 and 2013, there were 380 industrial accidents reported, affecting 207 668 people and resulting in over US$22 million in losses.
With climate change already stretching the disaster relief system, future climate-related emergency events will generate increased and more costly demands for assistance.
The JEU can be called by member states when acute environmental risks to life and health as a result of conflicts, natural disasters and industrial accidents are suspected.