Scientific & Technical Advisory Panel (STAP)

STAP provides strategic scientific and technical advice to the GEF on its strategy and programs. STAP has fifteen members who are internationally recognized experts in the GEF's key areas of work: biodiversity, biosafety, climate change, coastal and fresh water management, sustainable land management, persistent organic pollutants, and integrated ecosystem management.

STAP also maintains a roster of experts who advise on individual projects. Its work is supported by a secretariat based at the UNEP headquarters in Nairobi.

Further information about STAP can be found at the STAP website and in the STAP Brochure (pdf 352kb).

STAP's objectives are:

• To identify and provide strategic advice on scientific and technical priorities, the scientific and technical coherence of GEF operational programs and strategies, and on emerging issues and gaps relevant to the implementation of operational programs.
• To provide scientific and technical advice aimed at strengthening the scientific and technical quality and underpinnings of GEF projects.
• To enhance and improve the collaboration with other scientific and technical bodies, communities and private sector in areas of relevance to the GEF priorities.
• To advise on capacity building efforts in science and technology relevant for development and implementation of GEF projects.
• To advise on targeted research relevant to GEF strategic priorities.
• To advise on monitoring and evaluation indicators for focal areas and cross-cutting issues.