The Global Environment Facility (GEF) has announced a remarkable $1.4 billion fund aimed at rapidly tackling global environmental crises, including biodiversity loss and climate change. This unprecedented programme aims to benefit 14 million people worldwide, with a focus on women disproportionately affected by these challenges.
Red Panda is sitting on a tree branch and eating bamboo leaves.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) will play a crucial role in the fund, supporting countries in utilising the resources effectively to address environmental and socio-economic shocks faced by communities at the forefront of nature loss and the climate crisis. UNDP will also help operationalise GEF's Small Grants Programme, which supports local communities, Indigenous people, and youth in environmental stewardship.
The fund will align strongly with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework targets, emphasising the need to scale up financing for biodiversity loss and climate change mitigation. Forest conservation, fighting chemical and plastic pollution, and ecosystem restoration will be prioritised, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals.
Read more: How natural climate solutions can help meet the Paris Agreement’s goals
UNDP's support aims to unlock an additional $9 billion in capital from the public and private sectors and development banks, de-risking policies and providing incentives for businesses and communities to transition to sustainable practices. The Small Grants Programme, implemented by UNDP, will receive over $137 million, channelling funding directly to indigenous and local communities.
Government officials from Comoros and Djibouti praised UNDP's support in addressing climate threats and promoting sustainable practices. For instance, the One Comorian, One Tree reforestation campaign in Comoros protects watersheds and biodiversity, while UNDP's assistance in Djibouti has expanded marine biodiversity protection and improved the management of marine protected areas.
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The GEF Assembly in Vancouver in August will launch the Global Biodiversity Framework Fund, bringing together stakeholders such as government, business, and civil society representatives from 185 member countries to address environmental challenges.
At DGB Group, our collective mission is rooted in safeguarding the intricate web of life on our planet. Recognising the pressing nature of climate change and biodiversity loss, we are committed to implementing nature-based solutions that not only combat carbon emissions but also revive biodiversity and promote sustainable development. Together, we strive to create a future where the delicate balance of our interconnected ecosystems thrives, ensuring a harmonious coexistence between humanity and the natural world.
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