GCF Board to Deliberate PNG’s Landmark USD 63.4 Million REDD+ Proposal
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, 30 June 2025 – Papua New Guinea is poised to receive a significant results-based payment of USD 63.4 million from the Green Climate Fund (GCF), recognizing its verified success in reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+). A final decision on funding approval will be made at the 42nd GCF Board Meeting as the board convenes on 30 June – 03 July 2025 at APEC Haus.
This payment corresponds to 17 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO₂e) emission reductions from 2014 to 2016 – the equivalent of removing 3.69 million cars from the road for a year. The funds will drive sustainable forest management and community-led climate action across six provinces: East Sepik, West Sepik, Western, Hela, Chimbu and West New Britain Provinces, which were chosen based on their proven record in reducing emissions, the value of their forests beyond carbon, and their higher risk of deforestation and forest degradation due to population density.
PNG’s rainforests remain among the most pristine globally, with 78% forest cover – three-quarters of which are primary forests. These forests are not only carbon sinks, but also home to over 750 bird species, 191 mammal species, and support more than 510,000 forest-dependent people with food, clean water, and livelihoods.
The six-year initiative falls under the GCF’s Results-Based Payments (RBP) Pilot Programme, and will invest in the conservation of 1.4 million hectares of forest and consequently safeguard the habitats of 470 threatened species.
Debra Sungi, Acting Managing Director of the Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), emphasized the national significance:
“The upcoming decision by the GCF Board represents more than just funding – it’s global recognition of PNG’s leadership in reducing emissions while protecting our forests and communities. If approved, this USD 63.4 million will directly support our people, empowering customary landowners to lead sustainable land-use planning through a bottom-up, inclusive approach that respects traditional ownership and ensures no one is left behind.”
“Papua New Guinea will become the ninth country to access the Green Climate Fund’s Results-Based Payments (GCF RBP) if approved at the upcoming board meeting. This milestone was achieved through the establishment of a robust National Forest Monitoring System, comprehensive REDD+ policies, legislations, and safeguards—all driven by the unwavering dedication and proactive efforts of the people and the government of PNG towards forest conservation,” says Dr Hitofumi Abe, Chief Technical Advisor for the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in PNG.
FAO serves as both the Accredited Entity and Executing Entity, working in close collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Climate Change and CCDA.
A key component of the initiative is its strong focus on equity: 60% of the budget is dedicated to community development in line with PNG’s National REDD+ Benefit Sharing Guidelines (2023). The project upholds the principles of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) and includes a Gender Action Plan to promote women’s land rights and participation.
Building on earlier GCF readiness support, the project will leverage systems such as the national forest monitoring geoportal and real-time deforestation alert tools to ensure transparent, data-driven implementation.
By aligning with PNG’s national climate strategies and sustainable development goals, the project strengthens the country’s ambition for a low-emission, resilient future, ensuring that the environmental and economic benefits of forest conservation are shared across generations.
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About the Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA):
CCDA is the government agency responsible for climate change coordination in PNG. It develops and implements policies, programs, and partnerships to address climate risks and promote low-carbon, climate-resilient development.
For Media Enquiries:
Mr. Michael Guba
Public Relations and Communication Officer
Climate Change and Development Authority
Tel: 700-09761
Digicel: 796-66009
Email: gubamichaelricky@gmail.com