Consultant for Climate Change Transparency

Result of ServiceThe purpose of this consultancy is to provide technical expertise to the Climate Change Unit to implement both the Euroclima Programme as well as the Green Climate Fund projects. The consultant will provide guidance in the activities developed to put in operation the Regional Observatory of Carbon Markets and the Regional Observatory of Adaptation. Additionally, the consultant will collaborate with the development or the second version of Transparency Pathways Report and a guideline document and technical inputs to strengthen transparency in carbon markets through climate change data, for the implementation of Art.6. The consultant will develop the following activities independently and in accordance with the guidelines and work guidance provided by the UNEP Regional Subprogramme Coordinator for the Climate Change Unit. Outputs: Output 1. Develop a Guideline document to improve emissions projections to strengthen transparency in carbon markets through climate change data for the implementation of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement Responsibility: Contribute to the Regional Observatory of Carbon Markets with the information repository that is being built to strengthen capacity for the implementation of carbon markets in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC). The focus of the document is to enhance transparency in carbon markets through climate change data, providing guidance on the role of emissions projections as a tool to assess the use of carbon markets and the repercussions in the NDC updating process. The activities include: • Develop an assessment of the existing needs in countries regarding the calculation of emission projections and carbon budgets for the transaction of carbon units and participation in Article 6, and the development of abatement curves to compare mitigation alternatives. • Develop an information and data review of the use of carbon markets mechanisms in the NDC updating process and the status of the integration of carbon markets mechanism in the NDC update in LAC region. • Identify key stakeholders and develop interviews to gather input for the development of the guideline document. • Develop the content of a document providing guidance to improve emissions projections as a tool to assess the use of carbon markets and how to integrate these mechanisms into the NDC updating process. • Collaborate with the planning and execution of the webinar “Enhanced Transparency Framework, Paris Agreement ambition cycle and its link to NDCs”, prioritized as part of the Climate Change and Resilience Coalition (IBC) to enable UN agencies to work together to support coherent and aligned implementation of global agendas. Output 2. Collaborate with the development of the second version of the Transparency Pathways Report Responsibility: Provide technical expertise in the development of activities of Euroclima’s LAC 2025 sub-allotment, particularly collaborating with the development of the Transparency Pathways Report (TPR) version 2.0. TPR aims to identify the biggest challenges faced by Latin American and the Caribbean (LAC) countries and provide recommendations to move towards robust transparency systems to enhance decision-making, enable the participation on cooperative and market schemes, and scale-up the access to support. The Transparency Pathways Report presents a quantitative index to assess the level of compliance with the decisions established by the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF). For the second version, a new sample of countries will be included and the links between Art. 6 and Transparency will be analyzed. The activities include: • Analyze and document the progress of MRV and M&E arrangements of selected LAC countries facing Enhanced Transparency Framework requirements. • Analyze and document the advances on the implementation of carbon markets of selected LAC countries, based in the information generated by the GCF Readiness project “Capacity Building to prepare for the implementation of Carbon Markets and Article 6 in Latin America”. • Collaborate with the monitoring of the work developed by “Universidad Pontificia Católica de Chile” in the frame of the Small-Scale Funding Agreement (SSFA) to update the transparency index that reflects the pathway towards the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) compliance under the Paris Agreement to include a new sample of countries and deepen analysis of the link between transparency and Article 6.2. • Produce technical documentation and summaries of the progress of the work developed by “Universidad Pontificia Católica de Chile” in the frame of the SSFA to update transparency index that reflects the pathway towards the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) compliance under the Paris Agreement to include a new sample of countries and deepen analysis of the link between transparency and Article 6.2. • Facilitate and carry out, when necessary, interviews with key stakeholders from public and private institutions in LAC countries involved in transparency and Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) or generation of information necessary for the development of the mentioned activities and deliverables. • Collaborate with the necessary processes for the approval by the Publishing Board and publication of the Transparency Pathways Report (TPR) version 2.0. • Collaborate with the development of the Transparency Pathways Report (TPR) version 2.0. Output 3. Monitoring, evaluation and learning (NAP portfolio) Responsibility: Provide technical expertise to bolster monitoring, learning, and capitalization of lessons learned from the NAP portfolio coordinated by UNEP's Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean, ensuring the consolidation and operation of the Regional Adaptation Observatory. The Observatory will serve as a platform to systematize and disseminate knowledge, practices, and results from NAP processes in Costa Rica, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Panama, and El Salvador, contributing to regional dialogue, capacity building, and the strengthening of adaptation planning processes. The activities include: • Collect, organize, and systematize existing information, documents, and reports from the NAP processes in Costa Rica, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Panama, and El Salvador, ensuring alignment with the categories and guidelines of the Regional Adaptation Observatory. • Document lessons learned, results, and good practices from the five NAPs, focusing on private sector engagement, local adaptation planning, nature-based solutions, and sector integration. • Facilitate the development of adaptation indicators for the Regional Observatory, using evidence and data from the NAPs, and propose methodologies and data sources for monitoring. • Collaborate with UNEP’s regional team to bolster the organization of events and technical meetings, presenting lessons learned and NAP progress. • Facilitate and document meetings of the Regional Adaptation Observatory Technical Committee, ensuring follow-up of agreements and integration of NAP results into the Observatory’s framework. • Contribute with the preparation of technical briefs, reports, and knowledge products that showcase NAP achievements and their contribution to the Global Goal on Adaptation. • Identify information gaps and propose recommendations to strengthen national monitoring and reporting systems, facilitating alignment with UNFCCC adaptation reporting requirements. • Promote the participation of UNEP in the workshop agenda of the UAE-Belém Work Program. Output 4. Collaborating in putting into operation the Regional Observatory of Carbon Markets Responsibility: Provision technical expertise in the development of activities of Euroclima’s LAC 2025 sub-allotment, particularly collaborating with the implementation of the Regional Carbon Market Observatory for Latin America and the Caribbean, considering the technical inputs previously developed. The activities include: • Identify the sources of information for the indicators of the Regional Carbon Market Observatory for Latin America and the Caribbean, according to the guidelines developed. • Update the lessons learned and best practices related to carbon pricing instruments in Latin America and the Caribbean, including the identification and collection of successful cases in the private sector. • Update the actors in the carbon markets in Latin America and the Caribbean, according to the guideline define for the Regional Observatory of Carbon Markets for Latin America and the Caribbean. • Collaborate with the regional team of UNEP for presentations of the Observatory as well as co-organization of events. • Organize the regular meetings of the technical committee and work on adjustments or development of documents/proposals for the Observatory. Deliverables: Product 1: The deliverables for this product are the following (Output 1): Product 1.1. One guideline document for capacity building to improve emissions projections. The document will present recommendations on the role of emissions projections as a tool to assess the use of carbon markets and the repercussions in the NDC updating process, including an introduction, regional situation, and recommendations. Product 1.2. One webinar report for the event “Enhanced Transparency Framework, Paris Agreement ambition cycle and its link to NDCs” developed by the Climate Change Unit and facilitated by the consultant. The report will include collect participation statistics and the main conclusions of the event. Product 2: The deliverables for this product are the following (Output 3): Product 2.1. An updated knowledge base and technical guidance for the Regional Adaptation Observatory considering new national and sectoral adaptation information (Biennial Transparency Reports (BTR), Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) 3.0, National Adaptation Plans (NAP) updates), adaptation actions, and global indicators; providing technical guidance to countries for GGA-related submissions and reporting on the progress of the Regional Observatory of Adaptation to the LAC Forum of Ministers. Product 2.2. One digital repository of key NAP documents and knowledge products, collecting data, documents and information from Costa Rica, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Panama, and El Salvador, organized by themes aligned with the Regional Adaptation Observatory. Product 2.3. A report on the strategic positioning and outreach of the Regional Adaptation Observatory, including the thematic dialogues (water, food systems, ecosystems, adaptation cycle, MEL) organized by the consultant, UNEP's participation in the UAE–Belém work programme promoted and coordinated by the consultant, and the activities carried out to coordinate the official launch of the Regional Adaptation Observatory platform towards COP30. Product 3. One report of the work developed by Universidad Pontificia Católica de Chile under the SSFA to update the transparency index that reflects the pathway towards the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) compliance under the Paris Agreement, that includes a new sample of countries and deepens the analysis of the link between transparency and Article 6.2 (Output 2). Product 4. The deliverables for this product are the following (Output 4): Product 4.1. A detailed database of the meetings taken to approach potential donors, including recommendations of opportunities for fundraising of the Regional Observatory. This database must include a pipeline of the most viable options, requirements for application and proposals tailored to the donors’ requirements. Product 4.2 A report of participation in events, including the LAC Forum of Ministers. The report must include conclusions of each event, key takeaways and next steps. Specific tasks and responsibilities Under the direct supervision of the Regional Subprogramme Coordinator of the Climate Change Unit in UNEP Latin America and the Caribbean Office, the consultant shall perform the following tasks: • Provide technical expertise in the development of activities of Euroclima’s LAC 2025 sub-allotment, particularly collaborating with the development of the Transparency Pathways Report (TPR) version 2.0. • Develop a guideline document for capacity building to improve emissions projections and provide technical inputs to Euroclima LAC to strengthen transparency in carbon markets through climate change data, for the implementation of Art.6. • Analyze and document the advances of MRV and M&E arrangements of selected LAC countries facing Enhanced Transparency Framework requirements. • Facilitate and carry out, when necessary, interviews with key stakeholders from public and private institutions in LAC countries involved in transparency and NDCs or generation of information necessary for the development of the mentioned activities and deliverables. • Ensure coordination with relevant national institutions and government agencies to guarantee that project activities are distinct and fully complementary to other national initiatives. • Coordinate and attend meetings, calls, and guidelines provided by the UNEP Project Managers. • Periodic reporting to UN Environment according to the quarterly and annual work plans and budgets in coordination with UN Environment. • Mobilize resources for adaptation by providing evidence-based information on climate impacts, needs, and cost-effective solutions, contributing to resource allocation decisions. • Collect, organize, and promote localized and regional data to fill knowledge gaps and inform context-specific adaptation strategies and actions. • Facilitate knowledge exchange and provide decision-makers with data and tools to overcome barriers and facilitate the design of effective and inclusive adaptation measures. • Provide timely data and analysis to inform policymaking, monitor adaptation progress, and contribute to global reporting processes like the Global Goal on Adaptation. Work LocationHOME-BASED Expected duration10 MONTHS Duties and ResponsibilitiesThe United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Its mandate is to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. The UNEP Latin America and the Caribbean Office (LACO), located in Panama City, Panama, works closely with the 33 countries of the region, and its activities are integrated into the Medium-Term Strategy and the Programme of Work approved by the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA). One of the most relevant challenges the implementation of the Paris Agreement poses to countries is to count with strong Transparency Frameworks. Article 13 of the Paris Agreement establishes the need to implement national robust and transparent monitoring, reporting, verification and accounting systems to give clarity on action and support, while providing clear information to stakeholders. As part of building and enhancing their Transparency Frameworks, Parties of the United Nation Frame Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will progressively implement better tools and institutional arrangements. The UNFCCC Enhanced Transparency Framework demands substantial and immediate progress in the countries´ domestic Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) and Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) systems and strategic de-carbonization and adaptation planning. This entails moving from often disintegrated and different methodological approaches in data management to an integrated and robust system. The success of the Paris Agreement hinges on enhanced transparency of action and support, as a critical foundation to making its bottom-up country-led approach work, as well as mutual trust and confidence amongst Parties. On the other hand, consistent with the declaration of the XXIII Meeting of the Forum that emphasized the need to design and implement sound climate change initiates and the use of carbon markets as an instrument to finance climate action, Euroclima LAC programme prioritized the allocation of resources to the Regional Office to support the creation of an exchange platform for Latin America, focused on capacity building and partnerships in carbon markets in the region, and to support to make informed decisions, set meaningful targets and develop relevant policy responses that help unlock results-based finance through transparency. In this sense, UNEP`s LACO Climate Change Unit is recruiting a consultant to bolster the Regional Observatory of Carbon Markets, the Regional Observatory of Adaptation and the development of the second version of Transparency Pathways Report, including the activities to produce the report, generating inputs and contributing with UNEP LACO climate change unit in order to elaborate knowledge analysis at regional level. The incumbent will be supervised by Regional Subprogramme Coordinator for the Climate Change Unit in the Latin American and Caribbean Office. This position is home-based. Qualifications/special skillsACADEMIC: - Bachelor´s degree in environmental sciences, biology, engineering, economics, social sciences, international cooperation, or areas related to climate change, sustainability, national development, or a closely related field is required. - Master’s degree in environmental sciences, engineering, economics, development or related areas is desired. PROFESSIONAL: - Two (2) years of professional experience working in environmental sciences, biology, engineering, economics, social sciences, international cooperation, or areas related to climate change, sustainability, national development, or a closely related field is required. - One (1) year of specific work experience in managing, planning or implementing climate change projects is required. - Experience in climate transparency is desirable. LANGUAGE: - Fluency in Spanish is required. - Fluency in English is required. SKILLS: - Excellent understanding of global and national climate change commitments is desirable. - Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts, and approaches relevant to climate change mitigation and adaptation planning is desirable. COMPETENCIES: PROFESSIONALISM - Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality, and age sensitivity and adaptability. - Excellent understanding of global and national climate change commitments. - Knowledge and understanding of theories, concepts, and approaches relevant to climate change mitigation and adaptation planning. - Ability to identify, analyze and participate in resolving issues/problems. - Ability to apply judgment in the context of assignments given, plan own work, and manage conflicting priorities. - Demonstrates professional competence and mastery of subject matter. - Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines, and achieving results. - Is motivated by professional rather than personal concerns. - Shows persistence when faced with complex problems or challenges. - Remains calm in stressful situations. TEAMWORK - Works collaboratively with colleagues to achieve organizational goals. - Solicits input by genuinely valuing others’ ideas and expertise. - Is willing to learn from others; supports and acts in accordance with a final group decision, even when such decisions may not entirely reflect one’s position. - Shares credit for team accomplishments and accepts joint responsibility for team shortcomings. PLANNING AND ORGANIZING - Develops clear goals that are consistent with agreed strategies. - Identifies priority activities and assignments. - Adjusts priorities as required; allocates appropriate time and resources for completing work. - Foresees risks and allows for contingencies when planning. - Monitors and adjusts plans and actions as necessary. LanguagesNot available. Additional InformationNot available. No FeeTHE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.