The Global Framework for Chemicals (GFC) Fund has launched a call for applications. Eligible projects must focus on green and sustainable solutions and channel actions to prevent and minimize harm from chemicals and waste in developing countries.

The first round of applications is open from 1 October 2024 to 31 January 2025. Governments are invited to apply for funding. Civil society networks can also apply, subject to an agreement with the respective government. 

Selected projects will receive between USD 300,000 and USD 800,000 for up to three years to support transformative change to prevent and minimize harm from chemicals and waste and to protect the environment and human health, including vulnerable groups and workers. Projects will need to have co-financing and in-kind contributions of at least 25%.

According to a UN Environment Programme (UNEP) press release, “[t]he Fund is aiming for medium-scale projects that strengthen national and regional capacities on chemicals and waste management, support the national policies and regulations, advance solutions along the value chain, and work with ministries, regional centres, health networks, major industry sectors, investment and development banks, small businesses, as well as civil society.” Projects that ensure their long-term sustainability beyond the Fund’s three-year support will receive priority.  

The press release notes that the GFC sets 28 targets “to address chemicals, including the prevention of illegal trade and trafficking of chemicals and waste, the implementation of national legal frameworks, the alignment of financial flows, the phase out of highly hazardous pesticides in agriculture by 2035, the transition to safer and more sustainable chemical alternatives and greater transparency and access to information regarding chemicals and their associated risks.” 

The fifth International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM5) adopted the GFC in 2023, following years of negotiations. It also set up a dedicated trust fund to support low-income countries (LICs) and middle-income countries (MICs), including small island developing States (SIDS), in addressing chemicals, including products and waste, in line with international standards. 

“Pollution and waste constitute a daily crisis for people’s health, undermine economic activity, and leave nature permanently scarred,” said UNEP Industry and Economy Division Director Sheila Aggarwal-Khan. “Today the historic Framework is turning from text into practice and providing concrete benefits for those at the frontlines of this crisis.” 

The Fund has so far received initial support of around USD 27 million. Contributors include Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, the UK, and the International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA). A series of webinars will be held to explain the Fund’s priorities and offer information on how to apply. [GFC Fund] [Call for Applications] [UNEP Press Release]