On 8 December, Dr. Rosina Bierbaum, Chair of STAP, reported on the Panel’s recent work for the Council.
Dr. Bierbaum summarized recent science indicating that nature can play a significant role in meeting near-term climate goals, reversing biodiversity loss, and enhancing food security simultaneously. “building back better” in response to COVID-19 can advance the agendas of several of the MEAs. The World Economic Forum conclude that half of global GDP depends on nature and nature should be incorporated into mainstream risk. In the recent very active hurricane season, both rapid intensification and slower dissipation of windspeed are likely linked to climate change.
STAP’s initial perspective on GEF-8 replenishment was outlined, suggesting a three-pronged strategy. First, ensure that GEF projects are efficient, transformative, and durable in producing global environmental benefits and co-benefits. Second, make the overall GEF portfolio more integrated and coherently transformational. Third, make good use of the GEF’s convening and leveraging power to work in partnership with others on transforming global economic systems.
Dr. Bierbaum explained that STAP’s “enabling” conditions were essential elements in good quality design of projects, and should underpin GEF replenishment, for example, a robust theory of change, screening for climate risk, and durability of benefits.
Dr. Bierbaum made mini-presentations on four recent STAP reports which provided advice to the GEF on nature-based solutions, behavior change, technology critical elements, and co-benefits from chemicals and waste projects.
She concluded with some observations on the December GEF work program.
