The 32-member Council will consider a new work program under the GEF’s eighth replenishment cycle (GEF-8) totaling over USD 550 million, which is expected to generate over USD 4 billion in co-financing for projects benefitting people and the planet.

The Freshwater Challenge to accelerate restoration of rivers and wetlands by 2030 has attracted 50 countries, and raised high hopes that it can provide a strategic way to help countries meet national commitments across the three Rio Conventions.

The Great Green Wall Initiative in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) teems with examples of how small grants can incubate big change, ranging from stories of beekeeping, growing drought-resistant melons in arid areas to using art and painting to build capacity for sustainable tree planting.

A Just Land Transition would enable restoration of drylands while ensuring jobs, agricultural productivity, and social safety nets. Realizing this vision, speakers suggested, will require not only funding but also empowering community-based and women-led organizations.