Review of Single-Use Plastics Policy Framework and Development of a National Roadmap for the Kingdom of Bahrain

Organizational Context

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Regional Office for West Asia (ROWA) supports countries in achieving environmental and sustainable development goals. This role supports the Kingdom of Bahrain's Supreme Council for Environment (SCE) in addressing plastic pollution, a critical global challenge. The project aims to strengthen national policy frameworks and accelerate the transition to a circular economy for plastics.

Job Purpose

This consultancy aims to provide technical, analytical, drafting, and advisory support to UNEP ROWA and the SCE of Bahrain. The primary objective is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of Bahrain's single-use plastics (SUPs) policy and regulatory framework. This involves reviewing international best practices, consulting with stakeholders, and developing evidence-based policy recommendations and a practical implementation roadmap. The ultimate goal is to reduce SUP pollution, improve waste management, and advance Bahrain's transition towards a circular economy for plastics, enabling informed decision-making and strengthening the national policy framework.

Responsibilities

The consultant will conduct a comprehensive review of Bahrain's current single-use plastics situation, assessing trends in production, consumption, waste generation, and environmental impacts. This includes evaluating the effectiveness of existing policies, legal, regulatory, and institutional frameworks governing SUPs and plastic waste management, identifying strengths, gaps, and challenges. The role involves benchmarking international and regional best practices and assessing their applicability to Bahrain. Furthermore, the consultant will develop and assess policy options, including regulatory measures, economic instruments, and awareness initiatives. Crucially, the consultant will engage with stakeholders, facilitate consultations, and develop evidence-based policy recommendations and a practical implementation roadmap addressing policy, regulatory, institutional, technical, financial, and behavioural aspects. The role also includes preparing high-quality technical reports and knowledge products.

Work Experience

A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in solid waste management, plastic pollution, circular economy, or environmental policy is required. Demonstrated experience in reviewing and developing environmental policies, legislation, strategies, or regulatory frameworks related to plastics or circular economy is essential. Experience in policy assessments, gap analyses, developing recommendations and roadmaps, and stakeholder consultation is also required. Experience in GCC countries or the Arab region is highly desirable.

Skills

Policy analysis and development, Plastic pollution and circular economy expertise, Stakeholder consultation and facilitation, Report writing and knowledge product development, Understanding of environmental policy and regulatory frameworks, Project planning and management, Communication (English).

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