UNEP urges countries to submit project proposals to tackle hazardous chemicals
The initiative is designed to support nations in implementing practical solutions that protect health and the environment.
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is calling on countries to submit project proposals for its Global Framework on Chemicals Fund, aiming to reduce the dangers linked to hazardous chemicals and waste.
The initiative is designed to support nations in implementing practical solutions that protect health and the environment.
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This funding round focuses on developing countries and those with economies in transition. Grants range from $300,000 (Sh38.7 million) to $800,000 (Sh103.3 million) for projects lasting up to three years.
The goal is to help countries improve chemical safety systems, enforce stronger regulations, and adopt safer alternatives where risks are most pressing.
Kay Williams, head of the UNEP-hosted Global Framework on Chemicals Secretariat, described the fund as essential for turning policy commitments into concrete actions.
“We’re eager to support bold, collaborative proposals that turn the framework’s commitments into measurable action on the ground,” she said.
Launched in 2023, the Global Framework on Chemicals provides a structure for managing chemicals and waste sustainably across all sectors.
The fund backs medium-sized projects that strengthen technical and regulatory capacity, encourage cooperation across industries, and implement real-world solutions throughout the chemicals value chain.
Several governments and international bodies, including Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States, Belgium, Finland, the European Commission, and the International Council of Chemical Associations, provide financial support to the fund.
Their contributions have already helped advance projects that protect communities worldwide.
During the first round, the fund received 105 proposals from 77 countries, indicating strong global demand for implementation support.
Earlier this year, four regional initiatives benefiting 11 countries in Africa and Latin America were approved, with agreements being finalised to start operations before the end of 2025.
These projects include strengthening industrial chemical legislation in Colombia and Peru, advancing Globally Harmonised System labelling in El Salvador and Honduras, and phasing out highly hazardous pesticides in parts of West and East Africa by promoting agroecological methods.
This second funding cycle introduces a two-stage process. Applicants first submit concise concept notes, after which shortlisted candidates are invited to submit detailed proposals, with feedback provided to refine their applications. Civil society groups are required to obtain national government endorsements to participate.
The new call places extra focus on long-term sustainability, multi-sector collaborations, particularly with health and labour authorities, and projects that can scale or be replicated to expand their impact globally.
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