New UNEP reports highlight forest co-benefits and financing needs

October 17, 2025

Two new reports highlight forests’ untapped potential

Cover of two publications The launched two major reports underscoring the vital role of forests in achieving global sustainability goals: and  

The UN Forum on Forests (UNFF) Secretariat contributed to the development of the State of Finance for Forests 2025, which provides the most comprehensive assessment to date of global public and private financial flows to forests. Together, the two reports make a compelling case for scaling up investments and action to harness the full social, economic and environmental benefits of sustainable forest management.

UNFF Secretariat welcomes findings

In her opening remarks, Ms. Juliette Biao, Director of the UNFF Secretariat, welcomed the findings and underscored the urgency of increased forest financing to meet global climate, biodiversity and land restoration commitments. She expressed hope for strong political outcomes at the upcoming Climate COP30 in Belém.

Forest investments must triple by 2030

The State of Finance for Forests 2025 finds that annual investment in forests must triple—from USD 84 billion to USD 300 billion by 2030—to unlock their full potential for sustainable development. The report calls for mobilising both public and private finance and aligning financial systems with forest-positive outcomes.

Experts call for stronger partnerships

A panel of experts from the National University of Singapore, the Government of Brazil and EY discussed key opportunities and barriers to increasing forest investments. The launch concluded with remarks from Mr. Mario Bonucci, Head of UN-REDD, who called for stronger cross-sectoral partnerships to deliver on global forest goals.

Informing future UNFF deliberations

The findings of these reports will inform discussions at the twenty-first session of the UN Forum on Forests (UNFF21) in 2026, contributing to global efforts to halt and reverse deforestation.

For more information:

  • UNEP press release: 
  • Watch the event on