Online Volunteer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) was established in 1972 and has since become the global authority on environmental matters. Its mission is to provide leadership and foster partnerships in environmental stewardship, aiming to improve the quality of life for current and future generations. UNEP is headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, and operates through various divisions, regional offices, and a network of collaborating centers across multiple countries. The organization plays a crucial role in coordinating environmental policy development and promoting sustainable practices globally.

Job Overview:
The Online Volunteer position is designed for individuals with experience in desk research and a solid understanding of the circular economy, particularly its application within industries and value chains. The volunteer will assist in identifying, classifying, and analyzing Business Support Organizations (BSOs) that aid industry and policy actors in sustainable business models, circular economy practices, and resource efficiency. This role is critical in supporting the development of a Global BSO Network aimed at empowering organizations to implement circularity actions effectively. The volunteer will engage in mapping BSOs, classifying them based on various criteria, and evaluating their potential as champions for the Global BSO Network.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The responsibilities of the Online Volunteer include:

• Mapping: Collecting information on national, regional, and international BSOs such as chambers of commerce, national cleaner production centers, industry associations, SME agencies, and development agencies that support or could support the circular economy.
• Classification: Organizing BSOs by type, sectoral focus, areas of expertise, geographical coverage, target audience, and support services provided.
• Evaluation: Identifying priority BSOs that could serve as national and regional champions for the Global BSO Network based on their influence in promoting sustainability and circular economy practices.
• Gap Analysis: Highlighting under-represented regions, sectors, or types of support that require engagement based on the mapping and evaluation results. Deliverables include a comprehensive Excel mapping report and a short recommendation report outlining priority BSOs and key gaps to address for a successful BSO Network.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess strong research skills, particularly in desk research, and have a good understanding of the circular economy and its applications. Familiarity with sustainable business models and resource efficiency is essential. The ability to analyze and synthesize information effectively is crucial for this role. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills and the capacity to manage multiple tasks efficiently.

Educational Background:
A background in environmental science, sustainability, economics, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have a solid understanding of circular economy principles and practices, as well as experience in research methodologies relevant to the field.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have prior experience in desk research, particularly in areas related to environmental policy, sustainability, or circular economy practices. Experience working with BSOs or in a similar capacity within international organizations is advantageous but not mandatory.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all communications and reports will be conducted in this language. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those relevant to the regions of interest, would be considered a valuable asset.

Additional Notes:
This is a volunteer position, and the duration of the assignment is not specified. The role is expected to be part-time, with flexibility in hours to accommodate the volunteer's schedule. The position is open to individuals globally, allowing for international participation. Compensation details are not provided, as this is a volunteer role.