Reviewing 105 active projects, the 1997 PPR assesses GEF performance with emphasis on country ownership, participation, and sustainability.

The report presents findings from the Project Implementation Review, which assessed 105 projects active for at least one year as of June 1997 and drew on Implementing Agency ratings and related studies to highlight lessons and issues for improving GEF operations.

The evaluation finds that 34 percent of projects were rated highly satisfactory in implementation progress or prospects for achieving global environmental objectives, while 16 percent were unsatisfactory on at least one measure. Biodiversity and climate change accounted for most of the portfolio. The report underscores that strong stakeholder involvement and country ownership are essential for both implementation and sustainability, noting that commitment by recipient countries and organizations is often the major determinant of success. However, participation is uneven and often limited to consultations rather than active decision making. It further observes that while private sector engagement can enhance outcomes, incentives must be designed to ensure continuity beyond GEF funding.

The report recommends clarifying the intended results of capacity-building efforts, developing systematic performance indicators, and strengthening information sharing and public awareness to promote adoption of new technologies, behaviors, and policies.