A new package of $67m has been approved by the Global Environment Facility to help nations take frontline action on biodiversity loss, pollution and a rapidly warming planet. With UNDP’s support, the funding will be channelled to nine projects targeting some of the world’s most fragile ecosystems and climate-vulnerable communities in Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East and North Africa.

The projects aim to reverse biodiversity loss while also tapping income opportunities. They protect communities and rich biodiversity surrounding lakes and forests as well as permafrost peatland landscapes. They aim to build resilience in conflict-affected areas; restore critical coastal and marine habitats; empower local communities to manage wildlife and conserve medicinal plant species; tackle chronic water insecurity and land degradation and finance biodiversity conservation.

Working with a broad range of partners, from private sector companies to indigenous communities and marginalised groups, these projects will further mobilise investment to protect people and planet. The funds will reduce investment risks and boost innovation, while responding to critical needs. UNDP expects the portfolio to catalyse over five times the approved funding in co-financing from partners, including the private sector, while averting millions potentially spent on future crises.

This critical funding comes at a time when natural resources, and the communities that depend on them, are increasingly at risk. These funds aim to support a shift towards nature-positive development that will go beyond subsistence and dependency. UNDP will leverage its convening power to deploy these investments and support solutions that increase the resilience of societies and economies, generate positive economic returns, and protect a thriving future.