Empowering young conservationists with Global Environment Facility: Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund

ABU DHABI: The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund (MBZ Fund) has introduced the Global Field Grants through the Fonseca Leadership Programme, with support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF). This initiative aims to empower young conservationists worldwide with $1.5 million over three years. It provides crucial financial backing to current and future researchers and practitioners in conservation efforts.

The GEF is a group of funds focused on addressing biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution while promoting the health of land and oceans. Its funding helps developing countries tackle environmental challenges and meet global goals.

In 2023, the GEF launched the Gustavo Fonseca Youth Leadership Programme to honor Gustavo Fonseca, a former GEF Director. This programme aims to support young professionals in GEF countries by offering conservation fellowships, grants for fieldwork in biodiversity, awards for participation in international conservation events, and a global conservation symposium bringing together young environmental leaders.

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Through the Global Field Grants partnership, the MBZ Fund will allocate $500,000 annually through its online application system. This funding supports young conservationists in developing nations, focusing on impactful conservation projects worldwide.

The MBZ Fund operates in over 170 countries and has supported more than 2,800 conservation projects globally. It is committed not only to funding but also to nurturing early-career conservationists, with 63% of its support going to first-time recipients over the past 15 years.

Nicolas Heard, Acting Director-General of the MBZ Fund for Global Environment, emphasized their dedication to supporting the next generation of conservationists. Carlos Manuel Rodríguez, CEO and Chairperson of the GEF, highlighted their commitment to empowering young people from developing countries, enhancing their role in environmental research and policy.