In memoriam: The Inclusive Conservation Initiative (ICI) mourns the loss of renowned conservationist Gustavo Fonseca
The ICI team mourns the loss of Gustavo Fonseca, Director of Programs at the Global Environmental Facility (GEF), who passed away suddenly on 30th August 2022.
A leading figure in the conservation world for the past 30 years, Gustavo dedicated his life to addressing the planet’s biggest environmental challenges. As the long-standing Director of Programs at the GEF, Gustavo helped the GEF scale up its financial support for countries’ efforts to address biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution.
Gustavo was an ardent supporter and friend of Indigenous Peoples and Local communities and their role in the protection of the planet. He was instrumental in the development of the GEF Principles and Guidelines for Engagement with Indigenous Peoples and also the establishment of the GEF Indigenous Peoples Advisory Group (IPAG) to enhance global coordination between the GEF and Indigenous Peoples.
Gustavo was a supporter and a friend to the Inclusive Conservation Initiative and is remembered for his optimism, pragmatism, and humor.
We extend our deepest condolences to Gustavo’s family, friends and colleagues.
