An inability to respond immediately to crises or environmental disasters can have devastating effects on biodiversity and ecosystems. Recognising this, UNESCO established the Rapid Response Facility (RRF).
As a small, efficient institution, the RRF is designed to respond immediately and without any bureaucratic red tape to imminent environmental catastrophes or to those that have already happened.
RRF “fights fires” wherever they occur. Literally and figuratively: the Rapid Response Facility (RRF) is a rapid-relief body that tackles environmental threats in or near UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The RRF responds immediately to poaching, deforestation, accidents and to all kinds of destructive occurrences. It’s an emergency fund that provides aid and financing. Up to 30,000 US dollars can be paid out.
By enabling the relevant players to deal with such emergencies within just a few days, and without any tedious bureaucracy, the RRF invests in the long-term survival of unique natural sites and the biodiversity that is found there.
Since 2013, Fondation Franz Weber has been a UNESCO partner in the Rapid Response Facility and is an active member of the decision-making committee.
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