Consultant on Carbon Credit Pathways for Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture in Curitiba
Organizational Context
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority. The Ecosystems Division works with partners to provide technical assistance and capacity development for environmental policy implementation. This role supports a project in Brazil focused on enhancing agrobiodiversity governance and agroecological practices for sustainable agri-food systems, specifically within urban and peri-urban agriculture in Curitiba.
Job Purpose
This consultancy aims to strengthen the integration of Urban and Peri-Urban Agriculture (UPA) into municipal policies and planning processes in Curitiba, Brazil. The role will focus on developing evidence for carbon credit projects and practical policy recommendations related to UPA. By generating robust data on carbon sequestration, emissions reduction, and carbon credit potential, the consultancy will support the recognition of UPA as a nature-based solution for climate mitigation. The findings will contribute to implementing carbon credit projects, potentially unlocking additional financial resources for scaling UPA and urban food system initiatives, and informing decision-making on how cities can benefit from diverse, localized, agroecological, and climate-resilient food systems.
Responsibilities
The consultant will coordinate with the Municipality of Curitiba to implement carbon projects and support administrative processes. Key duties include drafting a database structure for stakeholders in carbon markets, conducting workshops to engage stakeholders, and performing baseline assessments. The role involves monitoring and documenting project progress through monthly reports and regular meetings, and communicating findings to the TEEBAgriFood team. Responsibilities also include supporting field activities, engaging local stakeholders, contributing to dissemination materials, and providing technical assistance to municipalities. The consultant will identify and analyze relevant policies related to UPA, highlighting integration opportunities, and ensure proposed legal and policy instruments are contextually adapted and legally sound. Data collection on carbon projects, measurement of carbon stocks in UPA sites, and outlining a municipal market structure for environmental assets are also key tasks.
Work Experience
A minimum of two years of professional experience in carbon market assessment and carbon analysis is required. Experience working in Curitiba and its specific biome is desirable. Knowledge of the Brazilian institutional, political, and regulatory context for environmental asset markets is essential.
Skills
In-depth knowledge of Brazilian environmental asset markets, climate change, nature-based solutions, and ecosystem services. Strong understanding of local governance, policy processes, and institutional landscapes in Curitiba. Ability to work effectively, precisely, and autonomously in a fast-paced environment. Skill in translating technical evidence into policy-relevant recommendations. Fluency in English and Portuguese.