Enviro News Asia, Incheon — The Asian Forest Cooperation Organization has been officially accredited as an implementing partner of the Green Climate Fund, enabling the organization to directly access and deploy international climate finance for forestry and land-use projects across Asia.
The decision was made during the 44th Board meeting of the Green Climate Fund, held from March 25 to 28, 2026, in Incheon. The accreditation recognizes AFoCO’s institutional capacity in fiduciary management, environmental and social safeguards, gender policy, and project implementation standards.
Through this accreditation, AFoCO is now authorized to design, manage, and implement climate-related programmes funded by the GCF, particularly those focused on forest restoration, carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable land management.
AFoCO has developed extensive experience in forest-based initiatives across its member countries. The organization has collaborated with international partners such as World Bank and the European Union, as well as private-sector programmes like Rabobank’s ACORN and Climate Asset Management, to promote landscape restoration and strengthen forest carbon systems.
Executive Director Chongho Park stated that the accreditation marks a significant milestone for regional cooperation in climate action. He emphasized that forests play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by enhancing carbon sinks and improving ecosystem resilience.
With its new status, AFoCO aims to scale up integrated programmes that combine environmental protection with socio-economic benefits. Future initiatives will focus on improving livelihoods for local communities while advancing large-scale restoration and climate resilience efforts.
The Green Climate Fund, recognized as the world’s largest international climate finance mechanism, supports developing countries in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to climate change. Through accredited entities, the Fund channels financial resources into projects that promote sustainable and climate-resilient development.
AFoCO’s accreditation is expected to strengthen its role as a regional platform connecting global climate finance with practical forestry initiatives, supporting Asian countries in achieving their climate and sustainable development targets. (*)
