PAGE’s technical assistance has focused on four key areas that are transforming how Guatemala integrates sustainability into public finance:
Tracking Environmental Spending at the Local Level
The implementation of the Guide for the Classification of Municipal Environmental Public Expenditure (GCGPAM) has equipped local governments with a standardized tool to identify and categorize environmental spending. Early results demonstrate improved organization of local budgets, enhanced traceability of investments, and strengthened capacity to report on climate adaptation, waste management, biodiversity protection, and institutional development. Plans are underway to integrate GCGPAM into the national accounting and planning systems, which will consolidate these gains and expand their impact.
Developing Environmental Tax Proposals
PAGE supported the development of a comprehensive technical proposal for environmental taxation designed to expand resources for sustainability while creating economic incentives aligned with environmental goals. The proposal includes the creation of an Environmental Finance Fund (FFA) with an allocation equivalent to 1% of the national budget, alongside measures to formalize small businesses and introduce taxes on single-use plastics.
Advancing Sustainable Public Procurement
Working with MARN and MINFIN, PAGE has advanced the integration of environmental criteria into government purchasing decisions. A structured methodology now defines environmental standards for priority categories including cleaning products, furniture, paper, vehicles, and electronic equipment. These criteria—covering attributes such as biodegradability, energy efficiency, recycled content, and ecolabels—are designed for progressive adoption across institutions, transforming public spending into a driver of market change and higher environmental standards.
Establishing Foundations for Green Finance
In coordination with MARN, PAGE has laid the groundwork for a Green Taxonomy of Sustainable Finance focused on the agriculture, water, and sanitation sectors. Through stakeholder engagement and technical analysis, the initiative has identified priority practices for water resource management, soil conservation, landscape restoration, and green technology adoption. This work contextualizes the Voluntary Taxonomy of Sustainable Finance for Guatemala’s financial and productive sectors, ensuring alignment with national sustainability commitments.
