Small Grants Programme: Third Operational Phase (Year 1: Feb 2005-Jan 2006)

The development goal of the GEF SGP is to secure global environmental benefits in the areas of biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, protection of international waters, prevention of land degradation, and phasing out of persistent organic pollutants through community-based initiatives and action. The rational of the programme is rooted in the belief that local solutions to global environmental problems exist and have been successfully implemented through the programme while at the same time recognizing that there is still an unrealized potential to enhance the impact of the programme within the GEF system as a whole. Given the strategic role of the GEF SGP in furthering the overall GEF Strategy and mandate, the long-term financial modality is one that ensures continuity for the programme’s expansion and consolidation, and for flexibility and accountability at the same time.