International Consultant (Circular Economy Expert)

Organizational Context

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in collaboration with UNEP, is implementing the WasteNet project. This project focuses on improving waste management systems and aligning them with circular economy principles and international standards. The role of the International Consultant (Circular Economy Expert) is home-based, contributing to regional efforts in Southeast Asia.

Job Purpose

The International Consultant (Circular Economy Expert) will support the UNODC WasteNet programme by conducting a desk-based gap analysis of environmentally sound management (ESM) standards for recycling facilities in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Viet Nam. The consultant will also organize and facilitate national consultations to gather stakeholder input. The primary goal is to formulate recommendations for enhancing existing waste management systems, ensuring alignment with circular economy principles, and meeting internationally recognized ESM standards. This includes addressing human rights, gender equality, and the 'Leave No One Behind' agenda, contributing to more sustainable and inclusive waste management practices in the region.

Responsibilities

The consultant will develop a detailed workplan, including concept notes, terms of reference (TORs), risk management, and safeguards (human rights, gender, Leave No One Behind). They will participate in the WasteNet Regional Workshop, providing technical insights and a post-event note. A key responsibility is conducting a desk-based gap analysis of national ESM standards against international requirements, such as the EU Waste Shipment Regulation, identifying gaps and proposing solutions. The consultant will also design and facilitate national consultations with various stakeholders in the four project countries. Finally, they will prepare country-specific reports and a consolidated regional brief, ensuring all deliverables integrate safeguards and address feedback from UNODC and UNEP.

Work Experience

A minimum of 7 years of experience in Circular Economy, waste policy, or environmentally sound management (ESM) of recycling is required. Experience with regulatory gap analysis and multi-stakeholder consultations is essential. Knowledge of the Basel Convention is required, and familiarity with the EU Waste Shipment Regulation and the ASEAN context is desirable.

Skills

Circular Economy, Waste Management, Environmentally Sound Management (ESM), Regulatory Gap Analysis, Multi-stakeholder Consultations, Report Writing, Basel Convention knowledge, EU Waste Shipment Regulation knowledge (desirable), ASEAN context knowledge (desirable), Human Rights, Gender Equality, Leave No One Behind (LNOB) mainstreaming (desirable).

Explore related opportunities