The UNEP Year Book 2010 reports on new environmental science and recent developments in our changing environment. It looks at progress in environmental governance, the effects of continuing degradation and loss of the world's ecosystems, impacts of climate change, how harmful substances and hazardous waste affect human health and the environment, environmentally related disasters and conflicts, and unsustainable use of resources. The chapters correspond to UNEP's six thematic priorities. The purpose of the Year Book is to strengthen the science-policy interface. Thus, it presents recent developments and new scientific insights of particular interest to policy to makers. The UNEP Year Book 2010 is essential, informative and authoritative reading for anyone with the role or an interest in our changing environment.