Recap of the 17th Board meeting of the Green Climate Fund

The Board of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) met for the 17th time at its headquarters in Songdo, South Korea in July 2017 to discuss important policy issues for the way forward. One key issue on the agenda was the approval of new accredited entities to the Board, including two entities that are known for …

Financing partners face criticism as UN’s climate fund meets

The Green Climate Fund (GCF) board meets from 30 September- 2 October in Cairo, Egypt. Board members are expected to approve 16 funding proposals and accredit 5 new entities that will then be able to distribute funds. The GCF is under pressure to get on with the job of disbursing the 10 billion US dollars …

Fostering sustainable development through climate action – what should the future UN mechanism look like?

In May, climate negotiators will again gather to flesh out the rules to implement the landmark Paris climate agreement. One of the topics on the agenda is the Sustainable Development Mechanism. To be effective, the successor to the Clean Development Mechanism must guarantee real, measurable and long-term benefits both in terms of emission reductions and …

UN climate fund should learn from past mistakes and reject large hydro dam projects

In a controversial move, the Board of the Green Climate Fund (GCF) has approved three large hydro dam projects, despite concerns raised by civil society on the extensive adverse social and environmental effects these projects can have. This development has to be seen very critically, especially considering past negative experiences under the Clean Development Mechanism …