Diego Mesa Puyo Steps into Leadership at the Global Environment Facility

On October 1, 2026, Diego Mesa Puyo, an experienced Colombian-Canadian economist known for his expertise in sustainable development, officially began his four-year term as the new CEO and Chairperson of the Global Environment Facility (GEF). This appointment is pivotal as the GEF, which is recognized as the world's largest public financial institution dedicated to environmental issues, supports global efforts aimed at achieving sustainability goals by 2030.

Mesa Puyo's leadership comes at a time when the GEF is gearing up for the 2026–2030 funding cycle, a crucial period supported by initial donor commitments exceeding $4.3 billion. Among these, a notable contribution of £330 million from the UK government was recently announced, underscoring the international community's dedication to environmental restoration and protection.

In a statement, Mesa Puyo emphasized the collective responsibility that nations bear in addressing environmental challenges while ensuring economic growth. He stated, "We have a global responsibility to protect nature and the environment while propelling sustainable economic growth. Achieving the 2030 goals requires bringing development and environmental action together." Highlighting the unique position of the GEF within the global financial landscape, he expressed his commitment to fostering collaboration among governments, investors, and communities to secure long-lasting environmental benefits.

Mesa Puyo's career is marked by significant contributions to energy policy and economic development. Prior to his new role at the GEF, he served as the Deputy Chief of the Climate Policy Division at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and was the Minister of Energy and Mines in Colombia from 2018 to 2022. During his tenure in Colombia, he championed a transformative energy agenda, successfully directing over $3 billion in private investments towards sustainable initiatives.

At the GEF, he aims to focus on the key priorities that member countries have identified to achieve their environmental objectives by 2030. His strategic vision includes scaling integrated solutions, enhancing blended finance mechanisms, promoting whole-of-government approaches, and improving institutional capabilities. Notably, he is committed to intensifying support for Least Developed Countries and Small Island Developing States, as well as increasing engagement with Indigenous Peoples and local communities.

An alumnus of McGill University, where he earned a master's degree in economics, Mesa Puyo also holds a bachelor's degree in economics from Concordia University. He has been recognized in his field by maintaining the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) designation since 2012. In this capacity, he succeeds Claude Gascon, who served as Interim CEO and will return to his previous role as Director of Strategy and Operations at the GEF.

As the GEF embarks on this significant new phase under Diego Mesa Puyo's leadership, the global community watches closely. The aim is not just to fund environmental initiatives but to create a sustainable future that harmonizes human development with ecological stewardship. Puyo's commitment to this vision promises to energize the initiatives aimed at maintaining the health of our planet while ensuring economic resilience in the face of globalization and climate challenges.

In conclusion, as the GEF prepares for the significant challenges ahead, the expertise and leadership of Diego Mesa Puyo will be invaluable in guiding efforts to meet the ambitious environmental goals set for 2030, making strides towards a more sustainable and equitable world.