Regional SDS Masterplan Consultant
Organizational Context
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) West Asia Office, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture of Saudi Arabia and the National Centre for Meteorology's Regional Centre on Sand and Dust Storms (SDS), seeks to develop a Regional Master Plan to Combat Sand and Dust Storms. This consultancy is part of a strategic agreement to address environmental and sustainable development objectives in the region.
Job Purpose
The purpose of this consultancy is to provide technical leadership for the development of a Regional Master Plan to Combat Sand and Dust Storms (SDS) in West Asia. This plan will serve as a crucial policy and technical document, guiding regional, national, and local actions across the full SDS cycle. The role involves consolidating technical inputs, identifying root causes, designing mitigation measures, and developing evidence-based monitoring strategies. The consultant will also offer technical advisory support to the National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) on their national SDS framework, ensuring a comprehensive and coherent approach to tackling SDS challenges in the region.
Responsibilities
The consultant will conduct a regional literature review on SDS sources and hotspots, developing criteria for identification and categorization. This includes analyzing available data and preparing hotspot profiles. A key responsibility is drafting the "Regional Masterplan to Combat Sand and Dust Storms for West Asia," outlining guidelines for national action plans and integrating SDS mitigation into policies. The role involves coordinating with other experts, compiling comprehensive data, and facilitating stakeholder consultations to gather feedback. Finally, the consultant will refine and finalize the Masterplan, ensuring all inputs are incorporated for review, endorsement, and publication, and will provide technical advisory support to NCM.
Work Experience
A minimum of 10 years of experience in land and water management or a related field is required. Proven experience in providing technical guidance, capacity-building programs, multistakeholder engagement, and developing technical reports is essential. Experience with international organizations or government agencies is an asset.
Skills
Technical leadership in developing regional master plans; expertise in environmental management, land/water management, or climate science; strong knowledge of West Asian environmental issues; experience in technical guidance and capacity building; multistakeholder engagement; technical report development; proficiency in English and Arabic.