The Global Environment Facility (GEF) has approved a new funding package of US$67 million to support frontline action on biodiversity loss, pollution, and climate change. With the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) providing support, the funds will be allocated to nine projects across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and North Africa, targeting some of the world’s most fragile ecosystems and climate-vulnerable communities.
The projects aim to reverse biodiversity loss while creating income opportunities for local communities. They focus on protecting areas surrounding lakes and forests, preserving permafrost peatlands, building resilience in conflict-affected regions, restoring coastal and marine habitats, empowering communities to manage wildlife and conserve medicinal plant species, tackling water insecurity and land degradation, and financing broader biodiversity conservation initiatives.
Marcos Neto, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of UNDP’s Bureau for Policy and Programme Support, highlighted the urgency of these investments. He emphasized that protecting biodiversity and natural ecosystems is critical for sustainable development, and that GEF’s funding will enable partners, governments, and communities to build a more resilient and sustainable future.
The projects will involve a wide range of partners, including private sector companies, indigenous communities, and marginalized groups. By reducing investment risks and promoting innovation, the funding is expected to mobilize additional resources, with UNDP projecting that the portfolio could generate over five times the approved funding through co-financing from partners. This approach aims to prevent future environmental crises and safeguard both people and the planet.
This funding initiative comes at a time when natural resources and dependent communities face increasing threats. The investments support a shift towards nature-positive development, promoting resilience, economic returns, and long-term protection of ecosystems. UNDP will leverage its convening role to ensure that these investments enhance societal and economic resilience while contributing to sustainable development.
GEF CEO and Chairperson Carlos Manuel Rodríguez emphasized that the funding is crucial as the world approaches the 2030 environmental targets. These investments are designed to strengthen economies, build climate-resilient communities, and ensure a livable future by recognizing the invaluable role of nature in global wellbeing.
The approved funds are part of UNDP’s broader commitments, including the Climate Promise and Nature Pledge, which support accelerated climate action, the reversal of nature loss, and expanded access to affordable, clean energy. The work program was approved during GEF’s 70th Council meeting held from 15–19 December 2025, where representatives from 186 member governments endorsed over US$350 million in funding for high-impact initiatives through the GEF Trust Fund, Least Developed Countries Fund, Special Climate Change Fund, and Global Biodiversity Framework Fund.
