The Afghanistan Environmental Country Profile - September 2024 offers an in-depth examination of Afghanistan's environmental landscape, focusing on its relevance to humanitarian shelter and settlement efforts. It provides critical insights into the environmental challenges that affect Afghanistan, such as deforestation, water scarcity, air pollution, and the impacts of climate change. The document outlines how these issues intersect with ongoing humanitarian crises, exacerbated by natural disasters like floods, earthquakes, and droughts.

The profile also delves into disaster risk management strategies, climate change impacts, and the urgent need to integrate environmental considerations into shelter design and humanitarian aid operations. It includes recommendations for improving environmental sustainability through coordinated efforts, particularly the creation of an Environment and Climate Change Working Group (ECCWG) to lead initiatives that reduce environmental damage during humanitarian interventions.

Additionally, the report stresses the importance of using tools like Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for better planning and decision-making. With its focus on both short-term relief and long-term environmental sustainability, the profile serves as a vital resource for stakeholders involved in Afghanistan’s recovery and development efforts.