Progress through Partnerships
Building a global movement for sustainable futures since 2020
Why GSFN Exists
Established in 2020, GSFN connects the Global South and Global North to co-address sustainability challenges through constructive partnerships, capacity building, and applied research. The network is proudly aligned with the UN SDGs and committed to leaving no one behind.
7,000+
Coordinators worldwide
175
Countries represented
2020
Network established
Our Reach
Today, GSFN convenes 7,000+ coordinators across 175 countries in a multi-disciplinary, cross-sector community dedicated to advancing sustainable development and climate action.
We bridge the gap between local action and global policy, ensuring that solutions are grounded in the realities of communities while aligned with international frameworks like the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
What Makes Us Different
Our unique approach to creating sustainable change
Transdisciplinary by Design
Integrating academia, industry, government, and communities to solve complex problems through collaborative expertise and diverse perspectives.
Localisation First
Aligning global frameworks with local realities through Summits and pilot programmes that ensure solutions are contextually relevant and community-led.
Actionable Pathways
Providing capacity-building, technical assistance, and recognition via the Green Awards to transform ambition into measurable impact.
Our Values
The principles that guide everything we do
Daring
We embrace bold ideas and innovative approaches to tackle the world's most pressing sustainability challenges with courage and creativity.
- Pioneering new solutions
- Taking calculated risks
- Challenging conventions
Caring
We prioritize people and planet, ensuring inclusive and equitable solutions that respect diverse communities and protect our shared environment.
- Community-centered approach
- Environmental stewardship
- Inclusive practices
Sharing
We believe in open collaboration, knowledge exchange, and collective progress through transparency, partnership, and mutual learning.
- Open knowledge sharing
- Collaborative partnerships
- Capacity building
Meet Our Founder
Founder & Visionary Leader
Dr. Renuka Thakore
Empowering Climate Leadership, Partnerships & Green Innovation
Dr. Thakore founded GSFN on 31 October 2020 to catalyse inclusive, cross-sector partnerships for climate action and sustainable development. Her vision was clear: create a global network that bridges the Global South and Global North, transforming sustainability challenges into opportunities through collaboration and innovation.
Under her leadership, GSFN has grown from a bold idea to a thriving network of 7,000+ coordinators across 175 countries, launching flagship initiatives including the 20M Farmers: Farm Carbon Africa programme, Global South Summits, and the GSFN Green Awards.
"Progress is not a privilege; it is a shared responsibility."
— Dr. Renuka Thakore
Recognition & Awards
Development Leadership Award
Governor Enrique Tomás Cresto Award, 2022
Global SDG's Women Ambassador
Global SDG's Women Ambassador Award, 2022
Distinguished Leadership
Among other international distinctions
Our Journey
Key milestones in building a global movement
GSFN Founded
Dr. Renuka Thakore established GSFN on 31 October 2020, creating a platform for global sustainability partnerships.
Network Expansion
Rapid growth across the Global South, building a multi-disciplinary community of researchers, policymakers, and practitioners.
Global South Summits Launch
Initiated flagship summit series to localise SDGs and NDCs, bringing together communities and policymakers.
Green Awards & 20M Farmers
Launched GSFN Green Awards recognition framework and 20M Farmers: Farm Carbon Africa initiative.
Global Recognition
Achieved Good Market Approved status and featured by Arkbound Foundation for sustainable development impact.
Europe Sustainability Summit
Expanding South-South-North collaboration with inaugural Europe Sustainability Summit in partnership with GEN_II.
Trusted by the Global Community
Recognition and partnerships that validate our work
Good Market Approved
Officially verified profile demonstrating commitment to sustainable and ethical practices.
Featured by Arkbound Foundation
Recognized for innovative approaches to sustainable development and community impact.
Multi-Sector Partnerships
Collaborating with governments, academic institutions, NGOs, and private sector organizations worldwide.
Join Our Global Network
Be part of a movement that's creating sustainable futures for communities worldwide.