International Consultant for Economic Impact Assessment of Sand and Dust Storms

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development across the UN system. Established to address pressing environmental issues, UNEP works with various stakeholders to foster sustainable practices and policies. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on environmental governance, climate change, and sustainable resource management. UNEP's West Asia Office specifically supports countries in the region in achieving their environmental and sustainability objectives through policy advice, capacity building, and technical cooperation. The office collaborates with various governmental and non-governmental organizations to implement strategic frameworks aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant for Economic Impact Assessment of Sand and Dust Storms (SDS) in West Asia involves conducting a comprehensive assessment of the economic impacts of SDS in the region. This role is crucial for developing the Regional Masterplan to Combat Sand and Dust Storms, which aims to address the multifaceted challenges posed by SDS, including their root causes, impacts, and prevention strategies. The consultant will be responsible for establishing an analytical foundation to determine the economic costs associated with SDS and the benefits of investing in mitigation strategies. This assessment will be guided by established frameworks and will require close collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Sand and Dust Storm Warning Regional Centre of the National Centre for Meteorology (NCM). The consultant will report directly to the Project Manager at UNEP’s Regional Office for West Asia and will engage in various tasks, including literature reviews, cost mapping, and the development of a cost-benefit analysis model.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a series of detailed tasks, including:

• Scoping, Literature Review, and Methodology: Conduct a thorough literature review of global, regional, and national studies related to SDS, summarizing previous economic impact studies and identifying methodological gaps. Define and assess types of costs associated with SDS, including direct and indirect costs, and create a cost-classification matrix. Identify on-site and off-site costs and benefits, compiling qualitative and quantitative data sources. Propose a structured methodology for economic modeling that integrates various data requirements. Prepare an inception report detailing the outcomes of these tasks and coordinate consultation meetings to present initial findings.
• Cost-Benefit Analysis: Construct a cost-benefit model that includes assumptions and impact pathways, estimating both on-site and off-site benefits of dust mitigation. Provide analytical sheets and data templates for future economic and financial valuation of mitigation options.
• Draft Economic Impact Assessment: Propose an annotated outline for the Economic Impact Assessment and draft a comprehensive report detailing findings, illustrations, and references.
• Final Economic Impacts Report: Present the draft assessment at regional or national consultations, refine the report based on feedback, and submit a final version ready for publication.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in Economics, Environmental Economics, or related fields. A PhD is considered an asset. Alternatively, a bachelor’s degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of a master’s degree. A minimum of 10 years of experience in environmental economics or a related field is required, with proven experience in conducting economic assessments of land and water ecosystems, environmental resources, or natural hazards and climate-risk impacts. Experience in multistakeholder engagement and the development of technical analytical reports is also required, along with knowledge of environmental and economic issues specific to West Asia. Experience working with international organizations, government agencies, or funding institutions is an additional asset.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s degree or equivalent in Economics, Environmental Economics, or related fields. A PhD is advantageous, and candidates with a bachelor’s degree may be considered if they have additional relevant experience. This educational background is essential for understanding the complex economic frameworks and methodologies necessary for the assessment.

Experience:
The consultant must have a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in environmental economics or a related field. This experience should include working on economic assessments related to environmental resources, land and water ecosystems, and the impacts of natural hazards and climate risks. Proven experience in engaging with multiple stakeholders and developing technical reports is crucial for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as the consultant will be required to communicate findings and collaborate with various stakeholders. Proficiency in Arabic is desirable, as it may facilitate better engagement with local partners and stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is part-time and expected to last for 9 months. The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not required to provide any financial information or bank account details. This role is critical for advancing the understanding of the economic impacts of Sand and Dust Storms in West Asia and contributing to the development of effective mitigation strategies.