Policy Brief: Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF)

This brief discusses the work of Systematic Observations Financing Facility (SOFF) and how systematic observations are tied into the UNFCCC process. SOFF is a specialized UN climate fund to support countries in closing the Global Basic Observing Network (GBON) weather and climate data gaps, especially in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The creation was spearheaded by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and co-created by WMO, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

SOFF’s design combines grant-based, long-term finance and peer-to-peer technical assistance, bringing together National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS), UN organizations and development banks.

SOFF is a foundational element and delivery vehicle of the UN Early Warnings for All initiative.