As governments gather for the first GEF-9 replenishment meeting, this report provides the evidence base for the Eighth Comprehensive Evaluation (OPS8).
Drawing on 35 evaluations conducted between 2022 and 2025, it tests whether GEF is keeping pace with intensifying crises of biodiversity loss, climate extremes, and fragile multilateral cooperation. Unlike earlier evaluations focused on single themes, this synthesis consolidates findings across the portfolio to inform negotiations on the scale and direction of GEF-9.
Despite gains in biodiversity conservation, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture, the overall trajectory of environmental degradation is worsening.
Evaluation summary
- Sustainability of outcomes remains uneven, innovation uptake is limited, and operational bottlenecks continue to delay implementation.
- Results are strongest when projects achieve broader adoption, embed in national strategies, and engage communities in design and implementation.
- The report recommends deepening inclusive implementation, expanding private sector engagement, strengthening country-level coordination, and streamlining financing windows to raise efficiency and impact.
Methodology
The evaluation synthesizes 35 studies completed or underway between 2022 and 2025, drawing on portfolio analysis, regional case clusters such as Pacific small island developing states and the Lower Mekong, and cross-focal synthesis.
Timeline
- June 17, 2024: GEF Council Meeting 67 – Presentation of the OPS8 Approach Paper.
- April 2025: Highlights of evaluation findings 2022-2025
- October 2025: Eighth Comprehensive Evaluation of the GEF to be presented to the second replenishment meeting.
- December 2025: Final OPS8 Evaluation Report to be presented to the GEF Council.
