Press Release

Project backed by GEF and UNEP will use wildlife forensics to track illegal trade in rhino horns

GEF Council Launches Accreditation of 11 Institutions, Including Civil Society Organizations, to Serve as GEF Project Agencies

Move significantly expands participation in Global Environment Facility initiatives at national, regional, local levels

Global Environment Facility funding commitment also leverages $4.4 billion in co-financing, reflecting 'catalyst' nature of global environmental efforts

Washington D.C, June 7, 2012 – The Global Environment Facility's governing Council today completed its 42nd meeting approving the largest work program to date for addressing global environmental challenges.

World's largest rainforest conservation initiative credited with helping Brazil achieve a four-year decline in deforestation rates

Unanimous decision follows months-long worldwide search process

WASHINGTON, June 7, 2012 – The governing Council of the Global Environment Facility today named Dr. Naoko Ishii of Japan to be the CEO and Chairperson of the GEF, choosing a senior official in Japan's Ministry of Finance with extensive experience in international institutions and global environmental issues.

Hamburg/Montreal/Washington D.C./Rome, 6 June 2012 - The list of nominees for this year's Future Policy Award is complete: 31 outstanding policies from 22 countries and regions are in the running for the best policy worldwide to protect oceans and coasts. The Future Policy Award celebrates policies that create better living conditions for current and future generations.

16 June 2012, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
10:00am – 6:30 pm (Reception following)

Eight new fact sheets highlight the key role of sustainable forest management in sustainable development

 French version