National Legal Consultant for Waste Management Strategies

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Position Title: National Legal Consultant for Waste Management Strategies
Location: Panama City
Country: Panama
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda and promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system. Established in 1972, UNEP has been at the forefront of environmental governance, advocating for sustainable practices and policies worldwide. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees, UNEP operates in more than 150 countries, focusing on various environmental issues including climate change, biodiversity, and pollution. The UNEP Latin America and the Caribbean Office (LACO), located in Panama City, Panama, works closely with the 33 countries of the region, integrating its activities into the Medium-Term Strategy and the Programme of Work approved by the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA).

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to develop and strengthen Waste Management Strategies for Dominica and Belize, promoting sustainable practices through waste reduction, recycling, and circular economy principles. The consultant will provide technical guidance and recommendations to enhance national policies and implementation plans, aligning with regional and international sustainability goals, including greenhouse gas emission reductions under the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This will be achieved through baseline assessments, stakeholder engagement, tailored strategies, and capacity-building for long-term impact. The consultant will work under the supervision of the UNEP Regional Project Coordinator and is expected to deliver comprehensive reports and strategies for both countries, addressing their unique waste management challenges and opportunities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Conduct baseline assessments and data collection for Dominica and Belize, including initial consultations and analysis of waste generation data, disposal methods, and existing policies.
• Develop comprehensive Recommended Waste Management Strategies for both countries, incorporating zero-waste initiatives and circular economy principles.
• Provide policy and legislative recommendations to improve existing frameworks for sustainable waste management practices.
• Engage stakeholders through mapping, consultations, and workshops to gather input and build consensus on proposed strategies.
• Develop detailed action plans for waste reduction, recycling, and circular economy initiatives, including resource allocation and funding mechanisms.
• Review existing waste management policies and propose new policies or amendments to bolster implementation of the strategies.
• Create a phased implementation plan with monitoring and evaluation frameworks, including risk management strategies.
• Recommend training programs and technical assistance for stakeholders to ensure effective strategy implementation.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Environmental Engineering, Law, or related fields is required.
• Master’s degree in the same fields is desirable.
• Seven years of professional experience in Environmental Science, Management, Engineering, or Waste Management is required.
• Experience in International and Caribbean Environmental Law and Public Policy is desired.
• Familiarity with the goals and procedures of international organizations, particularly the UN and EU, is desirable.
• Experience in facilitating multi-stakeholder dialogues and workshops is desirable.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Environmental Engineering, Law, or related fields is required for this position. A Master’s degree in these fields is considered an asset. Additional studies or specific training in Environmental Law and Policy, Waste Management, or Circular Economy are also desirable qualifications that enhance the candidate's profile.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of professional experience in areas related to Environmental Science, Environmental Management, Environmental Engineering, or Waste Management. Candidates with experience in International and Caribbean Environmental Law and Public Policy will be preferred. Familiarity with the operational frameworks of international organizations, particularly those of the UN and EU, is also beneficial. Experience in facilitating dialogues and workshops among diverse stakeholders is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is the primary language of communication. Basic knowledge of Spanish is desirable, as it may facilitate engagement with stakeholders in the Caribbean region where Spanish is spoken. Candidates who can communicate effectively in both languages will have an advantage in this role.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy is home-based and is expected to last for a duration of 9 months. The position is part of a product-based consultancy under the supervision of the UNEP Regional Project Coordinator for the Zero Waste in the Caribbean Project. The consultancy does not involve any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, and the United Nations does not concern itself with information on applicants’ bank accounts.