FAO and Montenegro partner to enhance climate action in agriculture and forestry

9 May 2025 , Podgorica

Montenegro, rich in forest resources, faces increasing climate-related challenges such as droughts, floods, and forest fires. The country has demonstrated its commitment to climate action through its updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) (2025), targeting a total of 55 percent reduction in national greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030 from all sectors including the Agriculture, Forestry, and Other Land Use (AFOLU).. Despite the recognition of its importance in terms of vulnerability and contribution to emissions, data information gaps continue to exist, limiting the ability to design and implement targeted actions, specifically also for AFOLU sectors.

A new project, funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF), and implemented by the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development, and Northern Region Development of Montenegro and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) aims to directly address these gaps. The project “Enhance strategic frameworks for AFOLU sectors and development of the 2nd National Forest Inventory” launched today with an event and inception workshop, which brought together key stakeholders to align on project priorities and initiate coordination for its successful implementation. The event saw a presentation on the goals and expected outcomes as well as awareness-raising among participants on the significance of climate action in the AFOLU sectors.  Held at the Scientific and Technology Park in Podgorica, the project marks a significant step in Montenegro's commitment to addressing climate change and bolstering its national capacities, particularly within the AFOLU sectors.

The project will strengthen Montenegro's national-level coordination mechanisms to overcome institutional, informational, and financing barriers, and will provide targeted support to the AFOLU sector. This includes enhancing institutional frameworks, improving data systems, developing critical methodologies such as for the second National Forest Inventory (NFI) and GHG inventory, and fostering greater private sector engagement in climate-resilient investments. A key component will be the finalization and validation of the draft National Forest Inventory methodology, addressing an urgent national need.

Speaking at the launch, Zoran Dabetic, State Secretary at the Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Region Development of Montenegro, stated, "Our goal is clear: Montenegro must be climate-responsible, prepared and resilient. Today we are opening a new chapter in that direction. I would like to thank FAO and the Green Climate Fund for their trust and partnership".

Nabil Gangi, FAO Deputy Regional Representative for Europe and Central Asia and Head of Office for Montenegro, underscored the Organization's dedication to supporting Montenegro's climate action efforts. 

"At FAO, we are proud to stand alongside Montenegro and the Green Climate Fund in this shared endeavour. We bring not only technical expertise, but also a common vision for a sustainable, resilient, and food-secure future. This initiative aligns closely with FAO’s strategic objectives and our regional commitment to supporting countries on their climate-resilient development pathways," said Gangi.

By improving data systems, enhancing cooperation, and building capacities, the project aims to better equip institutions to attract investments and implement specific policies and actions for reducing emissions and enhancing climate resilience.

This project is crucial for Montenegro to meet its climate targets, integrate AFOLU considerations into national climate strategies, and enhance its preparedness for future GCF programming and climate-related investments, contributing to ensuring a more sustainable and resilient future.

FAO and GCF

Both in the region and globally, FAO has established a strong partnership with the Green Climate Fund (GCF), supporting countries as Delivery Partner for Readiness Programme, and as a partner for the development and implementation of full GCF-funded projects in line with and supporting delivery on climate priorities and strategies including country Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), National Adaptation Plans (NAPs). 

The project launched today represents the first GCF Readiness initiative in Montenegro implemented by FAO as Delivery Partner. It underscores Montenegro’s commitment to strengthening climate action in the AFOLU sectors and marks a significant milestone in the expanding FAO–GCF collaboration in supporting countries in mobilizing climate finance and advancing resilience and sustainability in agriculture, forestry, and land use.

The FAO-GCF portfolio – now valued at USD 1.5 billion – supports over 50 million family farmers in 91 countries through 25 high-impact projects and over 100 readiness projects.