Apply for the UNEP GO4SDGs Fellowship Program 2026! Gain hands-on experience in sustainable development, circular economy, green jobs, and youth empowerment. Global opportunities for young professionals to drive SDGs.
The Global Opportunities for Sustainable Development Goals (GO4SDGs) Fellowship Program, launched by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is an innovative platform aimed at equipping young professionals with the skills, knowledge, and networks to contribute effectively to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Since its inception in 2019, GO4SDGs has rapidly evolved as a dynamic and agile platform to support action on the SDGs, particularly focusing on SDG12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). By connecting global partnerships with regional needs, GO4SDGs fosters collaboration, innovation, and impactful solutions in key sectors such as food systems, textiles, tourism, and finance.
About GO4SDGs
The GO4SDGs platform was created to bridge the gap between global sustainable development initiatives and local action. It emphasizes three core workstreams:
- Policy Coherence and Circularity Scale-Up
- Support governments in integrating circular economy and sustainable consumption and production (SCP) approaches into national policies.
- Align SDG-related strategies with climate change, biodiversity protection, and pollution mitigation.
- Innovation and Finance for SMEs
- Strengthen the capacity of small and medium-sized enterprises to adopt innovative and circular practices.
- Facilitate access to financial mechanisms that support resource efficiency and sustainable production.
- Youth Empowerment
- Equip young professionals with new skills for green jobs and sustainable lifestyles.
- Amplify youth voices in regional and global sustainable development initiatives.
The program emphasizes building synergies, avoiding duplication of efforts, and creating a greater collective impact. It leverages a wide range of tools, guidelines, and knowledge products developed by partners to scale up solutions and replicate best practices.
GO4SDGs Flagship Initiatives
1. Green Jobs for Youth Pact
- Accelerates regional implementation across Africa, Asia-Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, West Asia, and Latin America and the Caribbean.
- Promotes partnerships with UNEP, ILO, and UNICEF to create youth-oriented sustainable employment opportunities.
- Aligns with regional priorities while leveraging existing knowledge products and tools.
2. Sustainable Lifestyles
- Supports the implementation of the UNEA 6 Resolution on Promoting Sustainable Lifestyles.
- Offers initiatives such as the Sustainable Lifestyles Academy.
- Promotes sustainability education through regional networks like ARIUSA and Central Asia Sustainable Lifestyle University Network.
3. Circularity in Food
- Enhances regional capacities in food systems and waste reduction.
- Implements campaigns such as Recipe of Change and regional working groups on food waste.
- Promotes sustainable agriculture and consumption practices.
4. Circularity in Textiles
- Focuses on building capacity for designers and stakeholders in the fashion and textile industry.
- Initiatives include the West Asia Sustainable Fashion Academy (WASFA) and Sustainable Fashion Communication Playbook.
- Encourages adoption of circular principles in production and supply chains.
5. Finance for Innovation and Circular Economy
- Strengthens partnerships and scales up financial mechanisms in Africa, Central Asia, and Latin America.
- Pilot projects promote resource efficiency and cleaner production (RECP) for SMEs in sectors such as dairy and tea in Kenya.
- Offers Principles of Responsible Banking training in partnership with UNEP-FI to strengthen sustainability in financial institutions.
6. Circularity in Tourism
- Promotes higher standards and certification frameworks for sustainable tourism.
- Focuses on regions such as Africa and Central Asia, supporting environmentally responsible tourism development.
Why Join the GO4SDGs Fellowship Program?
- Hands-On Experience: Engage in practical projects addressing SDGs in regional and global contexts.
- Global Exposure: Work with UNEP and partner organizations across multiple continents.
- Skill Development: Gain expertise in sustainable development, circular economy, green jobs, and youth empowerment.
- Networking Opportunities: Collaborate with experts, policymakers, and other young professionals globally.
- Career Growth: Enhance your professional profile while contributing to sustainable development impact.
Eligibility Criteria for UNEP GO4SDGs Fellowship Program 2026
To be considered for the UNEP GO4SDGs Fellowship, applicants typically need to meet the following requirements:
- Be a young professional or recent graduate interested in sustainable development.
- Demonstrate commitment to environmental and social sustainability.
- Have a background in relevant fields such as environmental science, economics, public policy, social sciences, or international development.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Fluency in English is generally required; knowledge of French, Spanish, or other UN languages is an asset.
How to Apply
- Visit the official GO4SDGs website and explore current fellowship opportunities.
- Register an account and complete your personal profile.
- Submit your application, including CV, motivation letter, and any supporting documents.
- Wait for the selection process, which may include interviews or additional assessments.
- Join the program and begin working on projects that contribute to the SDGs.
Applications are typically reviewed on a rolling basis, and selected fellows are matched with projects based on skills, interests, and regional needs.
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Real-World Impact
GO4SDGs fellows have contributed to transformative initiatives worldwide:
- Youth-Led Circular Economy Projects: Fellows in Africa developed sustainable recycling programs in collaboration with local SMEs, reducing waste and creating jobs.
- Sustainable Fashion Campaigns: Fellows trained designers and retailers in West Asia to adopt circular production methods.
- Digital Sustainability Tools: Fellows in Central Asia implemented online platforms to track sustainable practices and waste reduction in agriculture.
These initiatives demonstrate the program’s commitment to turning knowledge into tangible impact on communities and industries.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the GO4SDGs Fellowship Program?
It is a UNEP-led initiative providing young professionals with practical experience in sustainable development, circular economy, and SDG implementation.
2. Who can apply?
Young professionals, recent graduates, and early-career practitioners interested in environmental and social sustainability are eligible.
3. Are the fellowships paid?
Compensation depends on the specific fellowship and host organization. Some may offer stipends or other support.
4. Is the fellowship remote or on-site?
Depending on the project, fellowships can be remote, hybrid, or in-person, aligned with regional needs.
5. How long does the fellowship last?
Duration varies, typically ranging from 3 to 12 months, based on project scope.
6. Do I need prior work experience?
While not always required, relevant work experience in sustainability, policy, or development is beneficial.
7. Which SDGs are prioritized?
GO4SDGs emphasizes SDG12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), but fellows may engage in projects across multiple SDGs.
8. How are fellows selected?
Applications are evaluated based on skills, experience, motivation, and alignment with project needs. Shortlisted candidates may undergo interviews.
9. Can international candidates apply?
Yes, the fellowship program is global, welcoming applications from young professionals worldwide.
10. How does the program support career development?
Fellows gain practical project experience, mentorship, networking opportunities, and exposure to international organizations, strengthening their professional profile.
Contact Information
For inquiries or more details, contact the GO4SDGs team:
Email: unep-economy-go4sdgs@un.org
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