Proposals for the creation of a World Environment Organization (WEO) are considered in light of the wide range of arrangements for environmental management at the national level. Organizational difficulties are compounded at the international level, suggesting that a WEO is neither possible nor desirable. Proposals to improve international environmental management must consider not only the weaknesses of current arrangements but also the sources of their effectiveness. Carefully designed steps to strengthen the institutions of international environmental management are desirable. Organizational proposals, other than strengthening the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), are a diversion from the pressing international environmental agenda.