ReLISA Side Event at the G20 ECSWG – Summary Report

This summary report provides an overview of the ReLISA Side-Event held during the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group meetings in Cape Town (October 2025). The session highlighted ReLISA’s value proposition – using Natural Capital Accounting, robust MRV systems, and evidence-based investment models to unlock scalable restoration finance for South Africa’s grassland, savanna and thicket biomes. Expert panel discussions explored regenerative grazing, the role of Biosphere Reserves in coordinating landscape-level governance, and opportunities to expand Water Funds and community-based finance instruments. The report also captures the South African government’s reflections on the centrality of ecosystem restoration for national development priorities, water security, and climate resilience – and reaffirms South Africa’s commitment to advancing large-scale restoration through inclusive partnerships. The summary concludes with highlights from the G20 ECSWG Ministerial Meeting, where the South African and Germany ministers along with the UNEP Deputy Executive Director and the UN Resident Coordinator in South Africa, formally launched the project.

Image credit: SANBI/Sibusiso Mkhulisi