Are you a young professional, student, recent graduate, or environmental advocate interested in chemicals, waste management, environmental health, and sustainable development? An exciting opportunity is available to participate in a United Nations-related program in Geneva, Switzerland.
The UN Chemicals and Waste Management Study Program 2026 will bring selected young participants to Geneva for an intensive learning and engagement experience focused on how chemicals and waste issues are addressed at the international level.
The program is organized through the Chemicals and Waste Youth Platform (CWYP) and the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR). Up to 8 participants will receive fully funded travel support.
The main study program will take place from 9–13 November 2026, followed by additional youth engagement opportunities connected to the Global Framework on Chemicals First International Conference (GFC IC-1) from 14–20 November 2026.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, this could be an opportunity to gain firsthand exposure to international environmental policy while connecting with experts, youth delegates, and stakeholders in Geneva.
UN Chemicals and Waste Management Study Program 2026 — Overview
What Is the UN Chemicals and Waste Management Study Program?
The study program is designed to give young people practical exposure to international processes surrounding chemicals and waste management.
Participants will learn how chemicals and waste-related issues are discussed and addressed within the United Nations system. The program combines expert sessions, technical workshops, institutional visits, career guidance, and practical activities.
Participants will also have opportunities to engage with professionals and other young people working on environmental and sustainability issues.
One of the practical components of the program is the Pollution Solutions Lab, where participants can explore solutions to pollution-related challenges.
What Does the Fully Funded Scholarship Cover?
Selected participants will receive financial support designed to cover the major costs associated with attending the program in Geneva.
The fully funded travel grant includes:
This means successful participants can attend the program with significant travel and participation expenses covered.
Who Can Apply?
The opportunity is aimed at young people with an interest or background related to chemicals, waste, environmental health, and related areas.
To be considered, applicants must generally meet the following requirements:
1. Age Requirement
Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.
2. Country or Community Eligibility
Applicants should be from a:
Representatives of Indigenous Peoples may also be eligible.
3. Availability
Selected participants must be available to travel to and remain in Geneva from 8–20 November 2026.
Applicants must be able to participate fully throughout the required program period.
4. Relevant Interest or Experience
Applicants should be able to demonstrate genuine motivation and relevant interests, work, or experience in areas such as:
5. Application Deadline
The completed application must be submitted before the deadline of 11 September 2026.
What Will Participants Do in Geneva?
This is more than a conventional conference. Participants will have the opportunity to experience several activities connected to the United Nations’ work on chemicals and waste.
The program may include:
Expert Lectures and Technical Workshops
Participants will attend sessions led by experts and gain a better understanding of international approaches to chemicals and waste management.
Visits to Geneva-Based Institutions
Participants will have opportunities to visit institutions in Geneva, including the Palais des Nations.
Hazardous Waste Facility Visit
The program includes an opportunity to visit a hazardous waste management facility and gain practical insight into waste management processes.
UN Career Sessions
Participants will learn more about potential career pathways within the United Nations system, including information about internships and entry-level opportunities.
Pollution Solutions Lab
Participants will work on practical approaches to pollution-related challenges through the Pollution Solutions Lab.
Youth Forum on Chemicals and Waste
The program also provides an opportunity to engage with other young people through the Youth Forum on Chemicals and Waste.
Why Should You Apply?
For young people interested in environmental issues, this program can provide exposure to international policy discussions and professional networks.
Participants can potentially:
Important Travel Period
Applicants should pay close attention to the dates.
The main Study Program runs from 9–13 November 2026, but the required travel period is 8–20 November 2026 because selected participants may also take part in additional youth engagement activities connected to the GFC IC-1.
Therefore, applicants should make sure they can commit to the entire required period before applying.
How to Apply for the UN Chemicals and Waste Management Study Program 2026
Interested and eligible applicants should complete the official online application before the 11 September 2026 deadline.
Before submitting your application, carefully review the eligibility requirements and make sure you can provide accurate information about your background, interests, experience, and motivation.
Application Deadline
11 September 2026
Official Application
Applicants can access the online application form through the official application link:
Apply Now for the UN Chemicals and Waste Management Study Program 2026
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeoTGMraJok6IP_I-Hf3Q4b_kSJpovd9W4BoNl6LH7V9Os6rQ/viewform
Final Thoughts
The UN Chemicals and Waste Management Study Program 2026 in Geneva offers a valuable opportunity for young people interested in environmental issues, pollution, chemicals, and waste management to gain international exposure.
With support for airfare, accommodation, meals, visa fees, transportation, and program participation, the fully funded places can significantly reduce the financial barriers associated with attending an international program in Switzerland.
However, only a limited number of fully funded scholarships are available, with up to 8 participants expected to receive the travel grant.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and have a genuine interest in chemicals and waste management, make sure you submit your application before 11 September 2026.
