UNDP helps reduce the use of harmful chemicals and promotes more efficient use of resources in key industries. This includes limiting the use and release of chemicals that contribute to global warming, persistent organic pollutants (POPs), mercury, and other substances of global concern. UNDP's integrated approach in the region focuses on reducing, managing, and eventually eliminating these chemicals, while encouraging cleaner alternatives and finding new ways to finance their replacement. 

Additionally, UNDP helps countries phase out mercury, including in the artisanal and small-scale gold mining sector, and fosters plastic reduction through policy, technical support, and partnerships. UNDP collaborates extensively with the private sector in areas such as industry, agriculture, construction, fashion, cooling, and sustainable tourism, leveraging innovative finance to expand the impact of its interventions. UNDP’s Zero Waste initiative supports municipalities to adopt integrated waste management planning, working toward a zero-waste transition.  

As an implementing agency of the Multilateral Fund for the Implementation of the Montreal Protocol (MLF), UNDP supports developing countries to eliminate ozone depleting substances (ODS). Since 1991, UNDP’s Montreal Protocol programme has proudly partnered with around 120 countries supporting their obligations under the Montreal Protocol.