Abu Dhabi, 9 October 2025 — The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the IUCN World Conservation Congress. The agreement marks a major step towards strengthening collaboration between the two organisations in accelerating a renewable energy transition that is both sustainable and nature-positive.

Signed by IUCN Deputy Director General Mr. Stewart Maginnis and IRENA Deputy Director-General Ms. Gauri Singh, the MoU sets out a framework for joint work to ensure that the roll-out of renewable energy not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also safeguards biodiversity, strengthens community resilience, and contributes to global sustainable development goals.

Under the agreement, IUCN and IRENA will collaborate to:

• Support the rapid transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing environmental challenges;
• Develop projects to ensure that the roll out of renewable energy development mitigates negative impacts on biodiversity and local communities;
• Develop tools to assess impacts on biodiversity and contributions towards positive nature goals from renewable energy projects;
• Promote co-benefits between renewable energy deployment and conservation through joint policy analysis, guidelines and best practices;
• Explore further cooperation, including capacity building, technical research, and knowledge dissemination. 

“This collaboration sends a strong message: the renewable energy transition must go hand in hand with protecting biodiversity and supporting communities,” said Stewart Maginnis. “Together with IRENA, we will work to ensure that solutions for the climate crisis also build a healthier planet.”

Achieving the 11.2 terawatts of renewables capacity by 2030 in line with the UAE Consensus must take into account the preservation of ecosystems and enhancement of biodiversity,” said Ms. Singh. “With this partnership, we can ensure targeted measures that work in harmony with nature are put in place, so our pursuit of a renewables-based future truly benefits the planet and its people.”

The MoU will remain in force for an initial three years, with opportunities for renewal and expansion of activities. It reflects the shared commitment of IUCN and IRENA to build a future where renewable energy development drives climate action while safeguarding the world’s natural heritage.