Samarkand, 4 June 2026 The Executive Director of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), Inger Andersen, has named Edward R. Carr, Director of the Stockholm Environment Institutes US Centre, as interim Chair of the Scientific and Technical Advisory Panel (STAP) to the Global Environment Facility (GEF).
Hosted by UNEP, the STAP is an independent science panel that advises the GEF partnership on its strategy, policies, programmes and projects, ensuring that the GEF investments are informed by the most robust, credible science. Its priorities in the coming year include translating global science into practical advice to the GEF, enhancing the quality of the GEF investment portfolio, and helping the GEF learn from experience and adjust approaches as needed.
Announcing the appointment at the 71st GEF Council in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, UNEPs Executive Director said Dr. Carrs combination of scientific excellence, ability to integrate across disciplines, direct familiarity with STAPs mandate and credibility across the GEF partnership provide a strong basis for assuming the interim Chair role. Dr. Carr holds a Ph.D. in Geography and a Ph.D. in Anthropology. She thanked current Chair, Prof. Rosina Bierbaum, whose term will conclude on 30 June 2026, for her leadership and extraordinary dedicated service.
