New York, 12 June 2026 — Two major global programmes led by UNDP have received approval from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), marking a significant milestone in advancing the transformation of tourism and food systems while addressing pollution.

Together, the two programmes will address some of the most pressing environmental challenges facing countries today, from the growing impacts of plastics and chemical pollution on coastal and marine ecosystems to the overuse of hazardous agricultural chemicals.

The Integrated Collaborative Approaches for Sustainable Tourism (iCOAST) programme aims to transform the tourism sector by promoting sustainable practices, reducing pollution, cutting greenhouse gas emissions, protecting biodiversity and creating equitable livelihoods for local communities. iCOAST will help drive the transition toward a more circular economy while safeguarding the health of ecosystems and communities that depend on them.

The second phase of Financing Agrochemicals Reduction and Management (FARM+) builds on the achievements of the ongoing FARM programme and will support countries in accelerating the transition to more sustainable and resilient agricultural systems. Through the promotion of biopesticides, integrated pest management, and sustainable agricultural practices, the programme will help reduce reliance on hazardous pesticides while strengthening food security, protecting biodiversity, and improving the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities.

The approval of both programmes reflects the strong commitment of participating countries, the GEF, and stakeholders to advancing integrated solutions that deliver environmental, social, and economic benefits. By addressing pollution at its source and promoting sustainable production and consumption practices, iCOAST and FARM+ are expected to generate lasting impacts for people and the planet.

As implementation begins, UNDP looks forward to working with partners to translate these ambitious programmes into transformative action and measurable results on the ground.

About UNDP

UNDP is the leading United Nations organization fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with partners in 170 countries, UNDP helps nations build integrated, sustainable solutions for people and planet. Learn more at undp.org or follow @UNDP.

About the Global Environment Facility

The Global Environment Facility (GEF) is the world’s largest multilateral fund for the environment. Its family of funds work together to address the planet's most pressing challenges in an integrated way. Its financing helps developing countries address complex challenges and work towards meeting international environmental goals. Over the past three decades, the GEF has provided more than $27 billion in financing, primarily as grants, and mobilized another $155 billion for country-driven priority projects.