The First International Conference of the Global Framework on Chemicals (GFC IC1) will take place from 16–20 November 2026 at the at the Geneva International Conference Centre in Switzerland, bringing together governments, financial institutions, industry, civil society and other stakeholders to advance global action towards a planet free of harm from chemicals and waste.

Adopted in September 2023, the Global Framework on Chemicals sets out five strategic objectives and 28 targets to promote the sound management of chemicals and waste throughout their lifecycle, protecting human health and the environment.

GFC IC1 will provide an important opportunity to track progress towards the Framework’s objectives, accelerate implementation and explore ways to mobilize finance, innovation and cross-sector collaboration to advance the sound management of chemicals and waste.

What’s at stake for the finance sector at GFC IC1?

At GFC IC1, UNEP FI, as convenor of the GFC Private Sector Financing and Investment Workstream under the GFC Implementation Programme, will support engagement on the role of the financial sector in advancing the objectives of the Global Framework on Chemicals. Resources produced by the GFC Private Sector Financing and Investment Workstream are available here.  

Key events for UNEP FI at GFC IC1

16 November | 13:15 – 14:45 CET | Weaving GFC Action into the Textile Value Chain (Hybrid event) | Room C

This interactive session will explore how stakeholders across the textiles value chain can accelerate progress on sound chemicals management. The session will highlight key initiatives and opportunities and discuss how these can contribute to a coordinated sector-wide response. Participants will also learn about the Textiles Industry Sector Programme under GFC Implementation Programme 2 (IP-2) and opportunities to engage in and strengthen its implementation.

19 November | 13:15 – 14:45 CET | Financing GFC Implementation (Hybrid event) | Room B

Building on the work undertaken by the GFC Finance Workstream, the session will bring together representatives from development finance institutions, philanthropic organizations and the private financial sector to examine both system-level financing solutions and emerging financial institution practices. The discussion will identify opportunities, remaining barriers and what the finance sector needs from the GFC to scale action.

Consult the full conference agenda here.

Additional events will continue to be added. Please check back soon.