Governments participating in a Global Environment Facility (GEF)-funded programme have launched a six-year, $45-million initiative aimed at eliminating hazardous chemicals from the supply chains of the fashion and construction industries. Announced in Cambodia, the initiative seeks to reshape these sectors by promoting regenerative design, resource-efficient production, and responsible post-use collection. An additional $295 million in leveraged funding from other source will amplify its impact.
Led by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) alongside the FAO, UNDP, and UNIDO, the initiative aims to tackle pollution alongside climate change and biodiversity concerns. It is expected to prevent the release of 6 million tonnes of greenhouse gases, 18,750 tonnes of hazardous chemicals, and persistent organic pollutants into the environment. The programme also plans to restore 825,000 hectares of ecosystems and benefit 2 million people globally by 2031.
“This game-changing initiative exemplifies the GEF’s unique ability to bring countries and sectors together to chart a healthier, safer — and no less profitable — path,” said GEF CEO and Chairperson Carlos Manuel Rodriguez. “We are proud to support bold leadership in the fashion and construction industries in pursuit of supply chains with fewer dangerous chemicals and lower carbon footprints.”
