Nepal became the first country to receive a commitment from a United Nations fund for poorer countries affected by climate-related disasters. The fund pledged $20 million, nearly €18 million, after an August mountain landslide and subsequent devastating flood. More than 1,400 people were reported killed and more than 5,000 missing; Nepal estimates that reconstruction will require nearly $5 billion.

The money has not yet been transferred: Nepal can now file a formal application for the pledged amount. The $20 million is the fund's maximum payout and represents less than 1% of Nepal's stated reconstruction needs. The fund has received about 176 requests worth roughly $2.8 billion since its creation, while its available funding is reported at about $516.5 million.