For young individuals interested in chemicals and waste management, apply to the UN Chemicals and Waste Management Study Program 2026 in Geneva, Switzerland. Up to eight fully funded scholarships will be available to qualified youth, students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals through the Chemicals and Waste Youth Platform (CWYP) in partnership with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR).
The program, which will take place in Geneva from November 9–13, 2026, will offer a number of beneficial learning, networking, and engagement opportunities concerning the worldwide management of waste and chemicals. Additional youth engagement events related to the Global Framework on Chemicals First International Conference (GFC IC-1), which will take place from November 14–20, 2026, will also be available to participants.
This initiative gives young people the chance to learn more, network with peers and professionals around the world, and participate in conversations about waste management and sustainable chemistry. Before submitting an application, interested individuals are urged to check the eligibility requirements and application details.
UN Chemicals and Waste Management Program 2026 – Overview
- Host Country: Switzerland
- Location: Geneva
- Programme Dates: 9–13 November 2026
- GFC IC-1 Activities: 14–20 November 2026
- Required Travel Period: 8–20 November 2026
- Funding: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 11 September 2026
Program Purpose
Participants who are chosen will get the chance to learn about and experience directly UN procedures pertaining to waste management and chemicals. They will tour Geneva-based organizations, participate in expert-led talks, technical workshops, and learning sessions, and investigate possible career paths inside the UN system.
Through the Pollution Solutions Lab, which focuses on real-world issues pertaining to pollution, sustainable chemicals, and waste management, participants will also generate useful concepts and solutions.
Eligibility Criteria UN Chemicals and Waste Management Program 2026, Switzerland
- Age Requirement: At the time of application, candidates must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Eligible Countries and Groups: Candidates must be from a Small Island Developing State (SIDS), Least Developed Country (LDC), or Low- or Middle-Income Country (LMIC), or represent Indigenous Peoples.
- Availability: Candidates must be able to travel to and remain in Geneva from November 8 to 20, 2026.
- Complete Participation: Selected participants must commit to participating in the full program and associated activities.
- Application Submission: Candidates must complete and submit the online application before the deadline.
- Relevant Interest: Candidates should demonstrate genuine motivation and relevant education, employment, interests, or experience in environmental health, pollution, sustainability, chemicals and waste management, or related fields.
Financial Benefits UN Chemicals and Waste Management Program 2026, Switzerland
The principal costs of attending the program in Geneva will be covered by a fully funded travel grant given to selected participants. Among the benefits are:
- Round-Trip Airfare: Economy-class travel to and from Geneva, Switzerland.
- Accommodation: Hotel accommodation will be provided throughout the program.
- Program Fees: The Study Program participation fees are fully covered.
- Meal Expenses: Eligible meal expenses during the program will be reimbursed.
- Visa Costs: Selected participants will be reimbursed for applicable visa fees.
- Transportation: Eligible local transportation expenses will be covered.
- Certificate: Participants who successfully complete the program will receive a UNITAR Certificate of Completion.
- Youth Engagement: Participants will have the opportunity to take part in additional youth activities connected to the Global Framework on Chemicals First International Conference (GFC IC-1).
What Will You Experience?
Selected participants will gain valuable international exposure and practical learning opportunities through a range of activities, including:
- Expert Lectures and Workshops: Participate in interactive learning sessions, technical workshops, and lectures delivered by experts.
- UN Procedures: Discover how the UN system handles chemicals and waste management issues.
- Geneva Institutional Visits: Visit the Palais des Nations and other international institutions located in Geneva.
- Hazardous Waste Facility Visit: Tour a hazardous waste management facility to gain practical insights into waste management procedures.
- UN Career Guidance: Attend career-focused sessions about UN internships and entry-level opportunities.
- Pollution Solutions Lab: Collaborate on practical concepts and innovative solutions through the Pollution Solutions Lab.
- Networking Opportunities: Interact with professionals, government officials, country representatives, youth delegates, and other stakeholders.
- Youth Forum: Participate in the Youth Forum on Chemicals and Waste and engage in discussions about global environmental challenges.
Required Documents for UN Chemicals and Waste Management Program 2026
Applicants should prepare the following information and supporting materials before completing the application:
- Updated CV or Resume highlighting your education, work, volunteering, and relevant experience.
- Personal Statement or Motivation Statement explaining your interest in chemicals and waste management and the program.
- Proof of Age or basic personal information confirming that you meet the age requirement.
- Academic or Professional Information related to your studies, employment, projects, or relevant activities.
- Relevant Experience Details demonstrating your interest or involvement in environmental health, pollution, sustainability, chemicals, or waste management.
- Supporting Documents requested in the official online application form, if applicable.
- Passport Information may be required for selected participants for travel and visa arrangements.
Note: Applicants should follow the official application form carefully because the organizers may request specific information or supporting documents during the application process.
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for the UN Chemicals and Waste Management Study Program 2026 in Switzerland:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Review the age, nationality/background, availability, and relevant-interest requirements to make sure you are eligible.
Step 2: Prepare Your Information
Prepare your CV, educational and professional details, relevant experience, motivation, and other information required by the application form.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Access the official application form and provide accurate information about your background, interests, experience, and motivation.
Step 4: Upload or Provide Required Materials
Submit any documents or supporting information requested through the application form.
Step 5: Review Your Application
Carefully check your application before submitting it. Make sure all required sections are complete and your information is accurate.
Step 6: Submit Before the Deadline
Submit your completed application by 11 September 2026.
Step 7: Selection and Travel Preparation
Selected participants will receive further information about the program, travel arrangements, accommodation, visa requirements, and participation in the Geneva activities.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 11 September 2026
- Required Travel Period: 8–20 November 2026
- Study Program: 9–13 November 2026
- GFC IC-1 Youth Activities: 14–20 November 2026
- Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Apply Now
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the UN Chemicals and Waste Management Program 2026?
The UN Chemicals and Waste Management Study Program 2026 is an international learning and engagement opportunity for young people interested in chemicals, waste management, environmental health, sustainability, and related fields.
Who is eligible for the program?
Young people aged 18 to 35 from eligible LMICs, LDCs, and SIDS, as well as representatives of Indigenous Peoples, may apply if they meet the other program requirements.
How many fully funded scholarships are available?
Up to 8 fully funded scholarships will be offered to eligible participants.
Is the program fully funded?
Yes. Selected participants will receive a fully funded travel grant covering eligible airfare, accommodation, program fees, meals, visa fees, and local transportation costs.
Where will the program take place?
The program will take place in Geneva, Switzerland.
When will the study program be held?
The main Study Program will take place from 9 to 13 November 2026.
What are the GFC IC-1 activities?
Additional youth engagement opportunities connected to the Global Framework on Chemicals First International Conference (GFC IC-1) will take place from 14 to 20 November 2026.
What is the required travel period?
Selected participants must be available to travel to and remain in Geneva from 8 to 20 November 2026.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply is 11 September 2026.
Will participants receive a certificate?
Yes. Participants who successfully complete the program will receive a UNITAR Certificate of Completion.
What activities will participants take part in?
Participants can attend expert lectures and technical workshops, visit Geneva-based institutions and a hazardous waste management facility, participate in career sessions, join the Pollution Solutions Lab, network with stakeholders, and take part in the Youth Forum on Chemicals and Waste.
Is there an application fee?
No application fee is stated for the program.
