International Consultant for Climate Co-Benefits and Carbon Crediting Framework

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global authority on the environment, established to promote the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development across the United Nations system. UNEP has a significant presence in various regions, including West Asia, where it supports countries in achieving their environmental and sustainability objectives through technical cooperation, policy support, and capacity-building interventions. The organization operates globally, with a mission to encourage sustainable development through sound environmental practices and to provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment. UNEP has a diverse workforce comprising numerous employees dedicated to various environmental initiatives and projects.

Job Overview:
The position of International Consultant for Climate Co-Benefits and Carbon Crediting Framework focuses on developing a comprehensive assessment framework that evaluates how ecosystem restoration initiatives contribute to climate adaptation and resilience outcomes while generating carbon credits. The consultant will work under the guidance of the Project Manager at UNEP's West Asia Office and in collaboration with the National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification (NCVC). The role involves conducting a thorough literature review, mapping climate co-benefits, and developing a structured methodology for carbon credit and climate co-benefit modeling. The consultant will also be responsible for preparing an inception report, developing a conceptual framework, and finalizing the Climate Co-Benefits and Carbon Crediting Framework, ensuring it is ready for application in restoration projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key responsibilities, including:

• Scoping, Literature Review, and Methodology: Conducting a comprehensive review of methodologies for assessing climate co-benefits of ecosystem restoration, analyzing existing carbon accounting approaches, and identifying methodological gaps.
• Climate Co-Benefit & Carbon Crediting Mapping: Defining and categorizing climate co-benefits relevant to ecosystem restoration, developing a typology matrix, and linking restoration actions to carbon-related metrics.
• Data and Evidence Inventory: Compiling national datasets and scientific studies to support measurement of adaptation and mitigation co-benefits, proposing measurable indicators.
• Draft Methodological Approach: Proposing a structured methodology integrating necessary data requirements for carbon credit and climate co-benefit modeling.
• Development of Climate Co-Benefits and Carbon Crediting Framework: Creating standardized data sheets, calculation templates, and guidance tools for future application.
• Final Climate Co-Benefits and Carbon Crediting Framework: Refining and finalizing the framework based on feedback and submitting a detailed operational manual and project report.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master's degree or equivalent in Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Ecology, Environmental Economics, Natural Resource Management, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of 10 years of experience in environmental engineering, environmental economy, or a related field is essential. Proven experience in developing or applying climate co-benefits assessment frameworks for land and water ecosystems, as well as experience in leading capacity-building activities with government counterparts and stakeholders, is required. Knowledge of environmental and economic issues in West Asia is also necessary, along with experience working with international organizations or funding institutions being an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Ecology, Environmental Economics, or Natural Resource Management. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of environmental issues and developing effective frameworks for ecosystem restoration and carbon crediting.

Experience:
The consultant is expected to have a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in environmental engineering, environmental economy, or related fields. This experience should include proven expertise in developing or applying climate co-benefits assessment frameworks, particularly in the context of land and water ecosystems and environmental restoration projects. Additionally, experience in leading capacity-building initiatives and engaging with multiple stakeholders is essential for the successful execution of the role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNEP and for the documentation involved. Proficiency in Arabic is considered an asset, as it may facilitate better communication and engagement with local stakeholders and experts in the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is part-time and remote, with an expected duration of 60 days. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. This ensures that the recruitment process is transparent and accessible to all qualified candidates.