New York — The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has published a Greening Moonshot mid-term report, showing that the organization is on track towards its goal of reducing emissions from global operations by 50 percent by 2030, compared to 2018 levels. By 2025, UNDP had already reduced operational emissions by 25 percent, demonstrating that climate action can be practical, measurable and cost-effective when ambition is matched with implementation. 

Launched in 2019, Greening Moonshot is UNDP’s corporate commitment to reduce emissions across offices, facilities, fleets, travel and day-to-day operations worldwide. The report shows that more than 190 greening projects are now reducing over 4,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent each year while generating more than US$1.5 million in annual energy savings. Over the lifetime of these investments, every US$1 invested now returns over $8 in savings, helping free up resources for development priorities. 

At a time when climate risks are intensifying and many institutions face mounting operational pressures, the report makes clear that climate-smart operations are not a secondary consideration. They are central to resilience, continuity and credibility. From solar power and energy-efficiency upgrades to electric mobility and smarter travel choices, Greening Moonshot is helping UNDP reduce costs, strengthen energy security and improve working conditions in some of the world’s most challenging contexts. 

“You can’t champion the climate transition, innovation, and economic efficiency without getting your own house in order. At UNDP, greening our footprint directly contributes to global climate action. It reduces our fuel dependency, lowers energy costs, and redirects those savings exactly where they belong - on the ground, delivering real impact.” Alexander De Croo, Administrator, UNDP 

The report underscores that UNDP’s internal transformation mirrors the support it provides to countries through the UNDP Climate Promise, helping governments move from climate commitments to action on the ground. By applying the same principles to its own operations, UNDP is showing that implementation is the bridge between ambition and impact. 

Results are already visible across regions. In Afghanistan, solar capacity has grown from 50 kWp in 2018 to more than 370 kWp, now powering nearly half of UNDP facilities in a country without a reliable national grid. In Sri Lanka, solar systems helped keep operations and electric vehicles running during the 2022 power crisis. In Haiti, renewable energy systems now supply around two-thirds of office power amid chronic blackouts and fuel shortages. In Syria, rooftop solar panels allow staff to continue working despite daily electricity outages of up to twenty hours. 

“The math speaks for itself. Today, more than 200 Greening Moonshot projects worldwide reduce over 4,000 tCO2e each year. They save more than $2 million annually in energy costs. Over the lifetime of these greening measures, every dollar invested now returns 8.5 savings. It proves that corporate climate action is a high-return investment that frees up resources for development.” Haoliang Xu, Associate Administrator, UNDP 

Beyond reducing emissions, Greening Moonshot is improving resilience where it matters most. Clean and reliable power helps keep teams safe, offices operational and essential systems running in fragile and crisis-affected settings. In places where grids fail, fuel prices spike or supply chains are disrupted, these investments are helping UNDP stay and deliver. 

The report also highlights the role of data and people in driving progress. UNDP uses a rigorous emissions reporting system covering more than 200 facilities worldwide, supported by digital, AI-backed tools that help offices track environmental performance and prioritize the most effective interventions. At the same time, the initiative is powered by staff across headquarters, regional bureaux and country offices, with focal points and technical teams helping turn corporate commitments into practical delivery.

About UNDP 

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

Contact

For more information, please contact:  greening@undp.org.