Washington, D.C., January 25-26, 2024
In a major event that took place in Washington D.C. on January 25-26, the Global Environment Facility (GEF) took the lead in organizing a strategic meeting that brought together the Latin American and Caribbean Network of Environmental Funds (RedLAC) and the African Consortium of Environmental Funds, also known as CAFÉ. This event was a key meeting point, where leading minds came together to address key issues related to the financing of environmental conservation and preservation at a global level.
This significant event, supported by the GEF, extended over two days, highlighting the promotion of collaboration and ongoing engagement with environmental funds through vital discussions. During the meeting, the position of these funds as strategic financial mechanisms for resource mobilization and execution was consolidated.
The first day of the workshop included briefings on: environmental funds, the new Global Biodiversity Framework Fund (GBFF), and opportunities with Enduring Earth and the High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People (HAC). The presentation on Environmental Funds focused on the management of these funds over the years, highlighting the strengths that the Funds present in the capillarity of funding to the field. The information presented is part of a White Paper on the impact of Environmental Funds that will now be published by RedLAC, CAFÉ and GEF.
"The creation of new frameworks and the capitalization of funds present challenges, but also opportunities for innovation and collaboration. We must leverage our strengths and learn from each other to navigate these policy landscapes effectively," said GEF Executive Director.
Carlos Manuel Rodriguez.
The main purpose of the workshop was to explore closer collaboration and synergies between the GEF and the Environmental Funds at the global level. This initiative was aimed at more effectively promoting the conservation and preservation of the environment and natural resources worldwide.
During the Strategic Workshop, the active and committed participation of the Executive Directors of the Environmental Funds, outstanding members of RedLAC and CAFE, was noteworthy. Their intervention was fundamental, contributing valuable perspectives and experiences in environmental protection and financial resource management. The direct contribution of these leaders consolidated the joint vision of strengthening regional collaboration, marking a milestone in the consolidation of efforts to address global environmental challenges. Their dedication and leadership were key to establishing a robust and concrete agenda that will advance biodiversity conservation in the region and beyond.
"The primary purpose of this workshop was to outline a roadmap for a more robust synergy between the GEF and the Environmental Funds. This strategic collaboration is shaping up to be key in financing projects for biodiversity conservation and restoration, addressing large-scale programs in our respective countries. It is a close engagement with governments, collaborating closely to achieve the global conservation goals stipulated in the 30X30 agenda," said Jorge Oviedo, Executive Director of FIAES (Environmental Investment Fund of El Salvador) and President of RedLAC.
This meeting consolidates the joint commitment assumed by the Environmental Funds, reinforcing the active construction of sustainability in the region. It also stands out for strategically aligning efforts in the face of environmental challenges, marking a significant milestone in the collaboration between the different actors. This collective commitment drives the effective implementation of initiatives that promote environmental protection and sustainable development, laying the foundations for a more resilient and balanced future.
Communications Coordinator of RedLAC
pablo.portillo@fiaes.org.sv
