Assessing GEF engagement in El Salvador highlights the challenge of building environmental capacity where needs are great but portfolios remain small.

El Salvador was chosen for evaluation because of its high environmental vulnerability and modest GEF portfolio, which included 11 national projects with co-financing and participation in 20 regional or global initiatives. The study, conducted in 2010–11, reviewed project documentation, carried out stakeholder interviews, and collaborated with the United Nations Development Programme.

GEF support helped El Salvador meet its obligations under global conventions and strengthen the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, particularly in compiling environmental information and designing planning tools. Results remain modest, as most projects are in early stages and completed projects lack sufficient data to verify global benefits. Biodiversity projects supported land planning and ecosystem management, while climate change mitigation gained momentum but adaptation and land degradation received less attention. Scaling up early gains has been limited by insufficient national capacity and weak coordination with other partners.

The report recommends that El Salvador explore new financing sources, enhance project synergies, and strengthen legal and institutional frameworks to sustain and expand results.