WWF welcomes the Netherlands’ investment in the TFFF

WWF applauds today’s announcement by the Netherlands to invest up to $500 million in the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF), marking another significant step forward for one of the most ambitious efforts developed to reward countries for keeping tropical forests standing.

With this investment, the Netherlands joins a growing group of countries that have invested in the TFFF, including Brazil, Indonesia, Norway, Germany, France, Luxembourg and the UK, expanding the coalition needed to operationalize the TFFF.

Kirsten Schuijt, Director General, WWF International, said: “The Netherlands’ investment in the TFFF is a powerful vote of confidence in one of the most ambitious and innovative ideas we have for safeguarding the world’s forests. It demonstrates that the international community is committed to turning the promise of the TFFF into reality. Over the past year, the TFFF has evolved into a truly global initiative, bringing together governments, investors, international institutions, Indigenous Peoples and local communities around a shared vision: creating lasting financial incentives to keep forests standing. We commend the Netherlands for stepping forward at a pivotal moment. Its commitment strengthens the growing global coalition behind the TFFF and helps pave the way for greater public and private investment that delivers benefits for nature, climate and people.”

Tropical forests are disappearing at an alarming rate despite their importance to the global climate, food security, clean water and economies. In 2025, the world lost 4.3 million hectares of tropical forest, an area roughly the size of the Netherlands.

Merijn van Leeuwen, Director of Nature Conservation, WWF-Netherlands, said: "The investment by the Netherlands represents a major breakthrough for the protection of tropical forests worldwide. These forests are indispensable for a livable climate, biodiversity, food security, and water supply. As long as countries can earn more from clearing forests than from protecting them, deforestation will continue. The TFFF makes protecting forests a more attractive option than cutting them down.

“While this investment brings a breakthrough closer, we are not there yet. More countries will need to join in. Companies and other investors are also required to ensure the fund is sufficiently large. At the same time, it is crucial that the TFFF adheres to the highest standards for nature conservation, remains transparent about how funds are spent, and ensures that Indigenous Peoples and local communities have a voice and also benefit.”

Today’s announcement brings the total pledged public contribution to US $7.8 billion.

WWF calls on other governments to build on this progress and help mobilise further capital. The Rotterdam TFFF Investor Statement, endorsed by 34 financial institutions and supporting organisations, including some of the world’s largest asset managers and institutional investors, provides a strong signal that private institutions stand ready to invest. Political endorsements demonstrate that forest countries see the TFFF as a credible and transformative mechanism to reward conservation at scale.