Port Moresby | Thursday, 3 July 2025 –
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has welcomed the approval of a US$63.4 million grant from the Green Climate Fund (GCF) for Papua New Guinea’s first-ever standalone GCF-funded project — a landmark initiative to protect the country’s rainforest and support climate resilience.
The announcement comes as the GCF Board convenes its 42nd meeting in Port Moresby — the first time the global climate fund has held its board session in the Pacific region.
A Milestone for Climate Leadership
The approved project, focused on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+), will be implemented by the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and is designed to:
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Protect PNG’s tropical rainforest ecosystems
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Support sustainable livelihoods for customary landowners
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Reduce carbon emissions and enhance biodiversity conservation
“This is a landmark achievement for Papua New Guinea,” said Prime Minister Marape.
“We have called on the world to act urgently on climate change. This grant affirms our position as a global custodian of biodiversity and a leader in climate solutions.”
Global Recognition of PNG’s Environmental Role
GCF Executive Director Mafalda Duarte praised Papua New Guinea’s leadership, highlighting that PNG holds the world’s third-largest tropical rainforest, covering more than 78% of its landmass.
“This REDD+ grant demonstrates the GCF’s commitment to PNG and the wider Pacific. PNG is one of the few carbon-negative countries — its forests absorb more carbon than it emits. This investment will preserve these critical carbon sinks and directly benefit local communities,” Duarte said.
Celebrating 50 Years of Independence with Climate Action
The Prime Minister linked the announcement to PNG’s upcoming 50th Independence Anniversary in September 2025, saying:
“This project is more than funding — it’s a symbol of our new chapter as a climate leader in the global community. It aligns with our national vision of environmental stewardship and sustainable economic development.”
Additional Support for Water Access in the Pacific
In addition to the REDD+ grant, the GCF Board also approved the US$9 million SOURCE Pacific Drinking Water Project, a regional initiative to improve access to safe drinking water in Papua New Guinea, the Marshall Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu.
PNG is expected to receive nearly half of the funding, further supporting its development goals in rural and remote communities.
Building a Sustainable and Resilient Economy
Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the government’s long-term vision:
“This is the result of years of preparation — strengthening our laws, institutions, trade networks, and empowering our people. Papua New Guinea is not just exporting products; we are exporting our story of resilience, quality, and commitment to sustainability.”
He also confirmed that the Government is working with the Bank of Papua New Guinea on enabling currency convertibility between the PNG kina and Chinese yuan, a move that will streamline trade across the Asia-Pacific region.
“This is part of our broader strategy to connect more efficiently with global markets and reduce costs for local businesses,” Marape said.
What This Means for PNG
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US$63.4 million REDD+ funding will protect forests and create jobs
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US$9 million regional water project will enhance rural water access
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Strengthened partnerships with FAO, GCF, and international donors
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A step forward for PNG’s climate diplomacy and economic strategy