Global Environmental Outlook's top six up and coming environmental issues are:

1. The global nitrogen problem concerns some areas receiving nitrogen compounds in quantities that lead to unwanted ecosystem changes, such as excessive plant growth.

2. Forest fires appear to be more frequent and more extensive, as a result of a combination of unfavourable weather conditions and land use making areas more prone to burning.

3. The increased frequency and severity of natural disasters is increasing.

4. With 1998 the warmest year on record, climate change problems coupled with the most severe El Niño have caused major losses of life and economic damage.

5. The economic and ecological importance of species invasions, resulting from increasing globalization, has become more significant.

6. New wars have broken out which, like all wars, threaten not only the environment of those directly involved but also neighbouring state