Online Volunteer for Coastal Management

Job Posting Organization:
Surfrider Foundation Europe is an environmental not-for-profit organization dedicated to defending, saving, promoting, and managing the ocean, coastline, waves, and the people who enjoy them. Established with a mission to protect coastal resources, Surfrider has developed significant expertise in environmental education and has gained recognition at both European and international levels. The organization operates through a network of grassroots chapters and affiliates that mobilize public action to address local environmental issues. Surfrider focuses on three main themes: marine litter, water quality and health, and coastal management, with the latter being a recent initiative primarily developed in France and planned for expansion into Portugal.

Job Overview:
The Online Volunteer for Coastal Management will play a crucial role in supporting Surfrider Foundation Europe's objectives related to coastal management. The volunteer will be tasked with gathering relevant information on coastal management and nature-based solutions in Portugal. This includes compiling an Excel document with pertinent Portuguese websites, laws, and scientific studies, along with summaries of the information found. The volunteer will also write comprehensive summaries on the existing legal framework for coastal management in Portugal, detailing the roles of various authorities and stakeholders involved in coastal land management. Additionally, the volunteer will explore the integration of nature-based solutions in climate adaptation plans and their mention in relevant laws or projects. The work will contribute to the development of a global strategy for nature-based solutions and the fight against coastal constructions, tailored to the specific contexts of France, Spain, and Portugal.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Gather and compile an Excel document of relevant Portuguese websites concerning coastal management and nature-based solutions, including important laws and links to scientific studies, with brief summaries of each source.
• Write a detailed summary on coastal management in Portugal, covering the legal framework, specific coastal laws, climate laws, urbanization laws, and the roles of various authorities in local coastal management plans.
• Identify stakeholders responsible for managing coastal areas, including public institutions, private owners, and NGOs, and examine laws addressing coastal risk management and coastal artificialization.
• Write a summary on nature-based solutions in Portugal, assessing their mention in climate change adaptation plans and related laws or projects, and identify funding mechanisms for their development.
• Participate in a virtual meeting to clarify the mission and expectations.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate should possess strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to summarize complex legal and environmental information clearly and concisely. Familiarity with coastal management issues, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">environmental law, and nature-based solutions is highly desirable. Proficiency in using Excel for data organization and analysis is essential. The candidate should also have excellent written communication skills in English, with the ability to produce high-quality reports and summaries.

Educational Background:
A background in environmental science, law, public policy, or a related field is preferred. Candidates with relevant coursework or experience in coastal management, environmental policy, or sustainability will be given priority.

Experience:
While prior experience in coastal management or environmental advocacy is beneficial, it is not strictly required. The volunteer should demonstrate a commitment to environmental issues and a willingness to learn and engage with complex topics related to coastal management and nature-based solutions.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as all reports and communications will be conducted in this language. Proficiency in Portuguese is highly desirable, given the focus on coastal management in Portugal. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly Spanish or French, would be advantageous but not essential.

Additional Notes:
This is a remote volunteer position, and the duration of the contract is not specified. The role is part-time and flexible, allowing the volunteer to manage their time effectively while contributing to important environmental initiatives. Compensation details are not provided, as this is a volunteer opportunity.