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EMERGENCIES FORUM
26-28 September 2017 - Nairobi, Kenya eecentre.org/eef
Chair’s Summary
© JEU
The 2017 Environment and Emergencies Forum Chair’s Summary
2 3
“
We have come here
with a purpose:
to share, to learn,
to network and to
prompt action. The
Environment and
Emergencies Forum
has brought us all
together in our
ambition to inspire
a shift in how we
address environment
in emergencies. As
we move forward,
let’s become agents
”
of change
Leif Jönsson, SAGEE Chair
The 2017 EEF was made possible with the generous financial contribution of
the Government of Norway to the UN Environment Partnership Cooperation
Agreement. UN Environment and OCHA also contributed financial and human
resources to the Forum.
4 5
Contents
www.unocha.org/unep www.unocha.org/unep
The 2017 Environment and Emergencies Forum Chair’s Summary
6 7
Executive Summary
The Environment and Emergencies Forum (EEF) is Indeed, against the backdrop of shifts in the actors in the spirit of partnership, to reinforce rather for further action ahead of the UN Environment
a global event where actors connect, learn, share nature of humanitarian crises as well as global than substitute national and local capacities. Assembly, which is expected to see discussions
and act to minimize human and livelihood impacts change agendas, and the consequent reshaping around conflict pollution. Participants urged for
Participants agreed to promote greater uptake of,
from disasters and conflicts, while strengthening of humanitarian assistance, there is an expanding strengthened leadership on pollution impacts, and
and support to, existing platforms and networks,
resilience to environmental shocks. The Forum has interest in the nexus between humanitarian relief highlighted the role that more effective partnerships
such as the Environmental Emergencies Centre
been organized biennially by the United Nations and sustainable development. between affected communities, civil society and UN
(EEC) maintained by the UN Environment / OCHA
Environment Programme (UN Environment) and the Participants unanimously agreed that environmental entities could play in the early identification and
Joint Unit (JEU). The inclusion of environmental
Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs and humanitarian goals go hand in hand. By assessment of the health and environmental risks
elements into exercises and trainings, as
(OCHA) since 1995. fostering partnerships between the sustainable from conflict pollution and the toxic remnants of war.
championed by partners such as the European
The 2017 Forum took place from Tuesday 26 to development and humanitarian communities, the Union Civil Protection Mechanism and the In a networking session on the final day, over
Thursday 28 September 2017, and was hosted by Forum encouraged actors to work on collective Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB), were 60 commitments between individuals and
UN Environment at the United Nations Office in outcomes. The Forum also contributed to the highlighted as best practice. organizations were made, primarily focused on
Nairobi (UNON). Focusing on the topic “From crisis development of a common language between joint research, advocacy and training, as well
The Forum also featured readiness and response tools,
to opportunity: building resilience by managing participants from varied backgrounds and fields of as on sharing data and information. Ultimately
such as the Flash Environmental Assessment Tool
environmental risk in emergencies”, the event drew work. Forum participants consistently emphasized all commitments emphasized the ambition to
(FEAT) 2.0, which was launched in four languages at
upon the Agenda for Humanity, and set the scene the urgent need for the humanitarian, security, strengthen collaboration between and across
the event. The FEAT has been identified as a successful
for the third United Nations Environment Assembly peacebuilding and environmental communities communities, sectors and actors at the local,
approach used at both the national and international
(UNEA), to be held in Nairobi in December 2017. to work together to enhance emergency national, regional and global levels.
levels, most recently in response to a chemical fire
The Forum centered around three themes: 1) preparedness and response efforts, which would
in Armenia. The “framework for environmental data All in all, the three days of intense discussions and
environmental emergency readiness and response; 2) in turn contribute towards the achievement of the
assessments in humanitarian action” was presented knowledge-sharing at the 2017 EEF provided a
integrating environment in humanitarian response; sustainable development goals. The Forum further
and further refined, a process that will continue as part significant opportunity to further streamline and
and 3) the links between environment and conflict. strengthened the community of practice working
of the Leading Edge Programme. The Forum also saw advance the agenda of addressing environment
to address the challenges related to the links
The Forum brought together 165 participants from the launch of the Somali Institute for Environmental as part of emergency preparedness, response and
between environment and emergencies.
52 countries, representing over 100 emergency Peace (SIEP), the first of its kind in the country which recovery. Numerous networks and partnerships were
response, humanitarian and sustainable Forum outcomes focus on joint action aimed aims to raise community awareness, educate youth established and strengthened, which, in the years
development organizations. The continuing growth at moving disaster response from mere short- and provide a platform for research on the impacts of to come, are expected to deliver concrete actions
of the Environment and Emergencies Forum is proof, term stability to long-term resilience. To this end, the protracted conflict on the environment. aimed at saving lives and livelihoods, through better
not only of the increasing diversity of stakeholders participants recognized the need for greater integration of the environment in humanitarian
The Forum’s outcomes on conflict and the environment
involved and the growing interest from countries engagement of humanitarian actors with local and action.
- a key theme throughout the event, set the ground
affected by these issues, but also demonstrates that national responders and sustainable development
the challenges are real and concrete.
© UNMIS/Stuart Price
© UN Environment
© UN Environment
© OCHA
© OCHA
UN Environment/OCHA Joint Unit www.unocha.org/unep
The 2017 Environment and Emergencies Forum Chair’s Summary
8 9
• Joint actions aimed at moving disaster response from short-term stability to long-
term resilience
• Promote greater uptake of, and support to, existing platforms and networks such as the
165 participants Environmental Emergencies Centre maintained by the UN Environment / OCHA Joint
Unit
from 52 countries, • Personally identify as leaders in addressing environment in emergencies by (i) taking
representing over 100 action, (ii) sharing knowledge, (iii) engaging with the Joint Unit and (iv) signing up as
environmental experts on the HumanitarianID
organizations • Provide inputs to the ongoing process, led by the Joint Initiative, to update the
rapid environmental assessment approach by the end of 2018
• Update the Disaster Waste Management Guidelines and pilot disaster waste
management projects
• Strengthen leadership on the impacts of conflict pollution, and enhance partnerships
16 different organizations between affected communities, civil society and UN entities in the early identification
and assessment of the health and environmental risks from conflict pollution and
facilitated the various the toxic remnants of war – with the possible development of practical guidance
breakout sessions on remote- and field-based approaches to environmental data collection related
to conflict
• Over 60 additional commitments between individuals and organizations, primarily
aimed at joint research, advocacy and training; sharing data and information; and
strengthening collaboration across sectors and communities, and between the local,
regional and global levels
17 paper-free
breakout sessions
10 11
“
Summary of Discussions and Key
Outcomes We are much better
prepared for natural
Opening Ceremony catastrophes today. But the
challenges are intensifying,
and we must prepare even
”
MC of the day: Joy Doreen Biira, Media Personality
and Communications Advisor
2. Environmental diplomacy: Mr. Solheim identified
environmental diplomacy as crucial to resolving better to survive
Ms. Biira welcomed participants to the United Nations environmental conflicts and managing crises, as
Office in Nairobi (UNON), and introduced the United environmental issues often contribute to conflicts. Erik Solheim, UN Environment
Nations Environment Programme (UN Environment) Environmental diplomacy, he noted, thus offers
Executive Director Erik Solheim; Jesper Holmer an opportunity for actors to work together across
Lund, Chief of the Emergency Services Branch (ESB) sectors.
at the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian 3. In the aftermath of war, environmental recovery
Affairs (OCHA) Geneva; and Leif Jonsson, Chair of actions are vital to reduce the long-term impacts
the Strategic Advisory Group on Environmental on nature and people: Mr. Solheim highlighted
Emergencies (SAGEE). the support requested by the Governments of Iraq
Mr. Solheim expressed his personal interest in and Colombia to solve the many environmental
bringing together environmental issues and conflicts. issues in the aftermath of conflict. He emphasized
Citing the example of Bangladesh, he argued that that UN Environment can address these, working
while countries are increasing their preparedness for together with the respective governments and
disasters, the challenges posed by climate change other relevant actors and donors.
and environmental degradation are also increasing.
Mr. Solheim noted that factors such as poverty, Jesper Holmer Lund and Leif Jonsson then each
climate change and environmental degradation are took the stage to welcome participants to the 2017
contributing to an increased likelihood of war. Given Environment and Emergencies Forum (EEF) and
the complexity of these interlinkages, Mr. Solheim shared their hopes and expectations for the event.
warned that while poverty can exacerbate conflict Mr. Lund highlighted the importance of building
and contribute to the development of conflict, it is resilience in the long-term rather than being purely
“
never the root cause – human action is. focused on short-term action. He warned that both
the humanitarian and environment communities are
Mr. Solheim identified three key areas in which UN under funding pressure, and consequently, for some
Environment continues to engage:
1. Prevention: Mr. Solheim emphasized the
Small adjustments to humanitarian actors, addressing environmental risk
is considered as a “nice-to-have” rather than a moral
importance of prevention and preparedness for
disasters and conflicts. To this end, he urged for
humanitarian action can imperative, or something which offers “value-added”.
Mr. Jonsson emphasized his hope for participants
make a long term impact
”
greater action in the areas of poverty, climate to leave the Forum, having shared knowledge,
change and environmental degradation, which exchanged ideas, and committed to collaborative
are all increasing the likelihood of war and conflict. towards resilience actions moving forward.
Mr. Solheim highlighted the case of Somalia,
where the development of energy solutions in Jesper Holmer Lund, OCHA
order to reduce the influence of the charcoal
economy, may prevent further escalation of the
conflict.
12 13
“
the conflict have resulted in serious environmental
damage. Dr. Noori drew attention to the urgent
need for environmental impact assessments to be
conducted following liberation from the Islamic
State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), in order to Debris, as a result of the
determine the extent of pollution, and assess the
harmful impacts of pollutants on the environment,
war, is a key concern
human health and biodiversity in the region. Dr.
Noori emphasized that improvised explosive
and reconstruction
devices, explosive remnants of war and debris efforts will require great
”
remaining after the conflict, are key concerns, and
that reconstruction efforts would require great
effort and time.
effort and time
Dr. Zaid Noori,
Dr. Noori’s keynote address linked closely to the
theme of the third UN Environment Assembly in Iraqi Embassy to Kenya –
December 2017, where a draft resolution on conflict
pollution will be tabled by the Government of Iraq.
Nairobi
The question and answer session highlighted the
crucial role that effective partnerships between
affected communities, civil society and UN entities
could play in the early identification and assessment
of the health and environmental risks from conflict
pollution and the toxic remnants of war.
14 15
“
The high-level panel featured representatives from humanitarian and environmental organizations. The Gabriella Waaijman shared her organization’s
panel was moderated by Joy Doreen Biira and featured Mette Wilkie (Director, Ecosystems Division, UN experience of working on resilience in eastern Africa,
Environment); Dr. Abbas Gullet (Secretary General, Kenya Red Cross); Gabriella Waaijman (Regional Director where a holistic approach was adopted, which at the Resilience is one way
for Eastern Africa and Yemen, Norwegian Refugee Council, NRC); and Jesper Holmer Lund (Chief of ESB, same time acknowledged the specific characteristics
OCHA). of each community. She aptly remarked that for humanitarians to
“resilience is one way for humanitarians to act as
Panelists discussed their visions and expectations for the Forum, in the context of major trends expected to
shape the future integration of environmental considerations in humanitarian action. Panelists highlighted
change agents for environmental and humanitarian act as change agents
action”. Ms. Waaijman urged participants of the
for environmental and
”
the important role of the environment as a cross-cutting issue in humanitarian and development work. They
need to respond early, based on “the probability of a
discussed the importance of partnerships for integrating the environment into humanitarian action, in order to
improve lives and livelihoods. Speakers highlighted the opportunities the environment presents in recovery and
disaster, rather than a confirmation that a disaster had
happened”. Re-emphasizing Ms. Wilkie’s comments,
humanitarian action
peacebuilding processes. Links to several international processes were made, including the Agenda for Humanity,
she also remarked upon the manner in which systems,
the New Way of Working, the UN Environment Assembly, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
governments and ministries work in silos, and of the Gabriella Waaijman, NRC
need to empower youth.
In her remarks, Mette Wilkie noted that the
environment can be seen as a victim of conflict, but Jesper Holmer Lund drew attention to the challenges
also a(n) (indirect) cause of conflict, as is often the of mainstreaming environment in the humanitarian
case with scarce resources. She emphasized that community. While each cluster should, in principle, be
the environment can be used to create trust and responsible for mainstreaming the environment, he
opportunities amongst communities. In building remarked that in reality it does not work effectively,
resilience, Ms. Wilkie drew attention to environmental with humanitarians arguing that there is a lack of
resilience, with stable ecosystems; social resilience, time to address the environment. He urged actors
with equitable access to resources; and economic present to recognize the need for long-term strategic
resilience, with a stable economy. The need to work discussions on how to include the environment in
on prevention was also highlighted. Ms. Wilkie humanitarian action and disaster risk reduction. Mr.
concluded her remarks with her expectations for Lund emphasized the importance of “translating UN
the Forum: “a) coming up with innovative solutions; jargon into concrete action that improves the daily
b) building coalitions to help move forward; and c) lives of communities that we are trying to assist, and
helping us all be better at creating the political will for ensures resilience in the long-term.”
political action”. On the issue of government capacities to absorb
Dr. Abbas Gullet emphasized the environment as “an the overwhelming number of refugees in the
enabling asset in building the resilience of communities”. region and the consequent shocks it poses to
He noted that the policy architecture does not protect all the system and the environment, Ms. Waaijman
equally, and that ad hoc response mechanisms do little to emphasized the need for involving all actors, and
change the status quo. He urged participants to focus on all four pillars of the UN. She referenced the New
linking science and practice to reduce vulnerabilities, as Way of Working, which calls for development
“
well as to include informal knowledge in climate change actors to stay with humanitarian actors even as a
adaptation efforts. Dr. Gullet recognized the need for the crisis unfolds. In his response, Dr. Abbas argued for
private sector to engage more significantly in activities the need “to look at our own way of working”, and
The environment is an that are risk-screened, in order to minimize the potentially the importance of linking existing local practices
negative impacts on the environment posed by their with current scientific understandings. Mr. Lund
enabling asset in building the involvement. In response to a question on the current reminded participants that short-term gains too
”
resilience of communities situation in South Sudan, where the impacts of war and
displacement are further complicated by the effects of
often push aside long-term solutions. He urged
actors to work with governments to build trust,
climate change, Dr. Gullet concluded his remarks with a and highlighted prevention and preparedness as
Dr. Abbas Gullet, powerful message, “…when do we all stop talking and the cheapest ways of dealing with disasters.
start acting?”
Kenya Red Cross
16 17
“
food security. The Institute also seeks to provide a
platform for research on the impacts of conflict on
the environment, and conduct environmental as
well as risk assessments to monitor the impacts of Peace cannot be built
environmental degradation and climate change on
livelihoods in Somalia. Educating future generations without alleviating
is another key component of SIEP’s work to ensure a
more sustainable future for Somalia. poverty, and the country
cannot be secure amidst
starvation...durable peace
requires a broad vision
encompassing areas such as
environmental, food, health
”
and economic security…
Khalif Hassan Dalmar, SIEP
18 19
While progress has been made to incorporate environmental considerations into • There is a need to establish and strengthen existing helpdesks, such as Green Recovery Connect,
emergency response at both the system and country levels, serious challenges Organizers: that can provide rapid response and advice to any responders aiming to address the environment in
persist. Through interactive discussions, participants shared their experiences of UN Environment, emergencies
environmental emergency response missions and identified lessons learned. OCHA • Environment is a part of accountability; environment must therefore be integrated into policies and
standards on accountability to help it gain traction as a humanitarian issue
Summary of key obstacles to • Environment can be at the forefront of a participation revolution, whereby international responders
“
include beneficiaries (men and women) in the decision making process
addressing environment in
• There is a need for greater awareness-raising about the interconnections between gender, environment
emergency response and emergencies at the local, national and international levels, where donor support is crucial
Most politicians do not • Local environmental safeguards should be integrated into emergency interventions, especially where
situations are likely to be extended or chronic. IASC and donors should insist on this
• Lack of awareness and political support: take the environment
traditional perception of environment as a
“nice-to-have” or “throwing up obstacles seriously…they do not
to life-saving activities” rather than a moral
integrate climate change KEY OUTCOMES
imperative or providing livelihoods through
the provision of services such as food and
water
or environment in their UN Environment committed to leverage its work on gender and conflict to raise awareness of the
interconnections between gender, environment and emergencies. In response to the request for
• Lack of communication between environmental political agendas. additional guidance for environmental experts deploying for response missions, participants agreed to
and emergency response communities
Governments need to further strengthen the Environmental Experts Hub and to engage with the UN Environment / OCHA Joint
Unit (JEU) to this end. Multiple environmental experts signed up on the HumanitarianID environmental
• Lack of funding that supports both short-
term stability and long-term resilience: while be more committed to expert community.
emergency responders in the field focus on
“basic needs” and have limited risk tolerance environment and climate
to scale-up good ideas, short term response
change and the potential
”
missions make it difficult to change past
patterns
associated disasters…
• Limited knowledge of the local context hinders
locally-led response efforts, and means that
local actors are not always included from the
2017 EEF Participant
earliest possible stages
• Lack of consideration and awareness of
gender roles in the context of environmental
emergencies, conflicts and disasters, which is
often closely linked to the dependence on, and
management of natural resources
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“
ronment, this would make the exercise unrealistic. Humanitarian
Aid Operations
(ECHO)
Summary of key recommendations There are endless
opportunities to
• Environmental elements must be included in all • Readiness at the individual level should be include environmental
emergency response trainings. The joint ECHO/ strengthened through mandatory training and
JEU Environment and Emergencies Training was e-learning courses for emergency responders from elements in trainings
highlighted as best practice in this regard. Online
learning paths, knowledge hubs and webinars
the outset of their work. Further needs include
improved guidance for experts being deployed, and exercises. We must
enable actors worldwide to access the knowledge, where the JEU-maintained Environmental Experts’
ensure we prioritize
”
tools and materials that already exist, and share Hub can act as a repository of knowledge.
additional information and training materials.
• Readiness at the system level should include these elements
• The Environmental Emergencies Centre should be learning from good and bad practices, recognizing
strengthened as a knowledge hub. The associated that one size does not fit all.
online and face-to-face operational readiness Gavin Reynolds,
• Greater emphasis must be placed on learning
trainings form the basis of capacity development
from failures and identifying key lessons.
for national actors on environmental emergency Swedish Red Cross
response.
KEY OUTCOMES
Participants confirmed their commitment to exchanging training resources and tools, with 16 actors
taking immediate action to share information on environment in emergency response exercises under
the leadership of the JEU. In the future, organizations wishing to disseminate information on existing
trainings and knowledge concerning environment and emergencies, are encouraged to reach out to
the JEU (ochaunep@un.org) in order to feature their trainings on existing JEU knowledge hubs.
22 23
“
C. Local level prevention and preparedness for technological
hazards and environmental emergencies
The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction highlights the importance
Disaster risk reduction involves
advocating for the poor and
”
of considering technological hazards, including those technological accidents
triggered by natural hazards (so-called Natech events). The pollution that is emitted Organizer:
from industrial accidents can have environmental, social, human and economic UN Environment vulnerable communities
impacts on surrounding communities. In addition, the Sendai Framework further
highlights the importance of empowering local authorities and communities to Eva Wanjiku,
ensure coordinated prevention and preparedness.
Kenya Red Cross Society
Summary of key recommendations
• Including environmental concerns in • Accomplishing an effective disaster risk reduction KEY OUTCOMES
preparedness and planning is crucial to ensure the framework requires a devolution approach – a
integration of the environment in humanitarian bottom-up approach to planning which identifies A number of participants committed to providing feedback to the Sendai Framework Words
action. and addresses existing needs at the local level. in Action Capstone and Simulation Exercise (SIMEX) Guidelines as well as the Guide on
• A step-by-step process is recommended, • Localization is key when it comes to ensuring Man-Made and Technological Hazards.
including getting the right participants on the sustainability of response. The humanitarian
board, linking to existing disaster risk reduction community must draw upon the experiences of
(DRR) programmes, improving awareness in environmental actors with respect to community
the community, developing plans for local engagement and the involvement of indigenous
community preparedness, and building local communities. Training activities with strong
capacity to implement emergency plans. local and national orientation are needed and
would support a locally-led response in case
• Multi-stakeholder approaches to integrated
of an emergency. Inclusive engagement of
disaster management and technological hazards
communities and local non-governmental
at the local level must be strengthened. Together
“
organizations (NGOs) is vital to ensure reliable
with strong leadership, this ensures coordinated
and unbiased information, stakeholder inclusion
prevention and preparedness for disasters with
and local ownership.
community members, government authorities
and industry. • A participation revolution must be promoted, Community
in which potentially affected populations at
• Humanitarian action should engage with
local and national responders in the spirit of
the grassroots level are included in local data involvement in data
partnership, aiming to reinforce rather than
collection and the knowledge creation process.
collection is key for
”
replace local and national capacities. It is essential • The use of the Flash Environmental Assessment
to institutionalize local-level awareness and Tool (FEAT) 2.0 must be increased to enable local awareness raising
preparedness for emergencies into national actors and communities to conduct rapid risk
regulations and policies, including in response assessments.
coordination frameworks. Mubarick Masawudu,
Green Cross Ghana
24 25
26 27
“
KEY OUTCOMES
Energy is a systematic
”
Organizations working on the provision of energy in humanitarian settings committed to
element of life continue sharing information as part of existing initiatives including the Safe Access to Fuel
and Energy and the Moving Energy Initiative.
Francois Grunewald,
Groupe URD
28 29
”
objectives. One way to achieve these objectives is organizations, in order
to implement environmental management systems
(EMS) in line with ISO 14001, the globally recognized
to identify challenges
associated with implementing EMS, and consider
reporting
standard for improving environmental performance. possible solutions. The level of knowledge of EMS
varied significantly among participants, with over two 2017 EEF Participant
This session introduced participants to EMS and ISO thirds of participants having little to no knowledge
14001, and examined how challenges to implement or understanding of EMS. Of these, few considered
these systems within international and governmental their organizations’ operational environmental
institutions can be overcome. footprint to be significant. Participants did however
recognize that EMS allows for a systematic approach
This session was conducted in a modified fishbowl to identify environmental problems and focus on
format. Facilitators provided a brief introduction subsequent actions, as well as helps practitioners to KEY OUTCOMES
to EMS, and highlighted ways in which it has been better consider environmental impacts and apply
implemented in the UN system. environmental safeguards. UN organizations working on the development of EMS committed to continue sharing
“
information and strengthening synergies as part of the Environment Management Group’s
work stream on environmental safeguards. The EMS guidance toolkit under development at
Summary of key recommendations An EMS allows the UN could be useful for small organizations to identify basic elements of EMS relevant to
for the systematic them, and will be shared once available. Donors are encouraged to consider whether such
a toolkit could be used in lieu of formal certification for organizations that are identified as
• The development of a community of practice
would be beneficial, particularly given the number approach to identify having a limited environmental footprint.
of people who are unfamiliar with EMS.
environmental
• When engaging with individuals unfamiliar
with EMS, elements related to establishing problems and focus
”
organizational context as a means to determine
compliance obligations and stakeholders relevant on subsequent
to the organization, are useful entry points to
a broader discussion on EMS and enhancing
actions
knowledge and understanding around it.
2017 EEF Participant
• Implementation of EMS is particularly beneficial
in instances where an organization’s operational
footprint is sufficiently large to warrant systematic
embedding of process to produce environmental
benefits, or where organizations wish to attract
donors who require such a criterion for further
funding.
30 31
C. Coordinating environmental assessments in humanitarian response • All EHA Framework levels interlink and data gathered • Local knowledge and community perspectives
from one can inform the others. This should be are key and must be captured in assessments
This session comprised three identical rotating High Commissioner for translated into an approach that uses data gathered and reflected in the Framework for as many entry
sessions and allowed participants to contribute to the Refugees (UNHCR), World Organizers: across levels and thus eliminates the need to repeat points as possible. Often approaches that involve
“Framework for Environment in Humanitarian Action”, Wildlife Fund, the Swedish “Coordination of data collection in assessments. community perspectives are more beneficial than
as well as consider critical aspects of coordinating Civil Contingencies Agency Assessments for the use of a tool itself.
environmental assessments. The Framework maps (MSB) and the International • The Framework should be linked to the humanitarian
Environment in programme cycle at all levels. • Protracted crises are not as well addressed as
out key entry points for the environment and Union for Conservation of
Humanitarian sudden onset crises. Both should be equally
environmental assessments in the humanitarian Nature (IUCN). • The Framework must include links to national
system at four levels: (i) preparedness, (ii) disaster- Action” represented in the Framework.
legislation, national systems and national level
wide level, (iii) national level coordination and (iv) Participants discussed some coordination. • Illustrative examples of best practice at each
direct programming implementation. Participants of the key challenges and recommendations at Framework level should be documented.
were able to choose the level of most interest to • When updating environmental assessment
each Environment and Humanitarian Action (EHA)
them. The dynamic conversations held for each of the methodologies used by humanitarians, a
Framework level and provided ideas for new additions
four levels, repeated three times, thus enabling the humanitarian lens must be applied and the term
such as: national level contingency plans; national
“Framework for Environment in Humanitarian Action” “environment” should be deconstructed so that it
adaptation plans; national crisis management centres;
to take an important leap forward with inputs from clearly explains links to humanitarian action.
academic institutions; environmental diplomacy
over 150 participants. Particular emphasis was placed initiatives; local environmental field advisers; remote
upon environmental assessments. This will contribute data collection tools and techniques; help desks and
to a broader mapping of assessment tools being technical advice; environmental risk screening sheets;
conducted as part of the “Coordination of Assessments and community risk mapping and assessment tools.
for Environment in Humanitarian Action” initiative,
led by the United States Agency for International
Development (USAID), the JEU, the United Nations
KEY OUTCOMES
The Joint Initiative, with financial support from USAID, committed to capturing the above
recommendations in the Framework for Environment and Humanitarian Action, and
finalizing this by the end of Q1, 2018, in connection with the Leading Edge Programme. The
“
Joint Initiative will use this Framework as the basis for the update of the rapid environmental
assessment approach, to be completed in 2018 and for which additional partners are invited
to contribute.
We cannot manage what we
do not know: environmental
assessments are key to ensuring
that natural capital resilience is
taken into account and improves
lives and livelihoods before and
”
after disasters
Mandy George, Coordination of
Assessments for Environment in
Humanitarian Action
32 33
• Countries are encouraged to develop national • Regional platforms for DWM should be set up
DWM Strategies and Action Plans, linking to to promote awareness raising and strengthen
existing legal frameworks, and to mainstream capacity and resilience. The Asia Pacific region,
DWM into National Waste Management Policies, including Nepal and the Philippines, can be used KEY OUTCOMES
Strategies and Action Plans. These should be as a pilot project. Regional platforms should
accompanied by communication and capacity be established in collaboration with various The Disaster Waste Management Guidelines will be updated under the leadership of MSB
development measures at all levels. stakeholders including UN Environment, MSB, the Sweden, in close coordination with UN Environment and other partners. Simultaneously a
United Nations Development Programme, OCHA, region-specific Disaster Waste Management Guideline will be developed by the Government
• Policies and actions across waste management
and disaster risk management communities need
SPREP, the Japan International Cooperation of Japan’s Ministry of the Environment for increased hands-on usability; as well as to
Agency, and the Ministry of Environment, Japan. practically guide officers-in-charge to promote institutional and technical arrangements.
to be harmonized, where the presence of an
overarching coordinating body is key. • In emergencies, a task force or working group on Pilot DWM projects will be developed for Nepal and the Philippines where a training or
DWM that is linked to the cluster system, should mentoring programme is foreseen to support these efforts and the dissemination of the
• Country-specific DWM guidelines need to be
developed and utilized at the national and local
be established. results.
levels. • Models for assessing disaster waste, including
disaster risk mapping, can be further elaborated
• Public-private partnerships for safe demolishing
and improved upon. GIS tools should be used
should be encouraged.
to assess possible areas for temporary disposal
• DWM should be recognized as a resource for sites and its subsequent inclusion into DWM
sustainable reconstruction and recovery where contingency planning. Countries are invited
the 3 R strategy (Reduce-Reuse-Recycle) should to consider existing decision support tools
be applied for building back better. and guidelines to help them in this process (for
example, the Mediterranean Oil Spill Waste
Management Decision Support Tool).
”
among clusters
2017 EEF participant
34 35
“
cause long-term environmental damage. Increased multiple sources, was Response Centre for on health impacts. Participants discussed a range of
urban warfare, and rapidly expanding camps due considered to be a the Mediterranean actors who may already be present in the field and
to rising levels of displacement all contribute to a major challenge. During Sea (REMPEC), Toxic collect or communicate environmental data, such as
growing environmental footprint from conflict. There
is an urgent need to collect environmental data
discussions, it was noted
that data collectors
Remnants of War the environmental or chemical defence units of the There is a need to create
Project armed forces, civil protection units of the parties to
during conflicts, address the lack of specific data on
the health risks posed by conflict-born pollution,
and users should be
conscious of the risk of
the conflict, international observers and monitors, a platform for data
deminers, local and NGO health professionals,
and identify how to build more effective response politicized data being used to serve the purposes of humanitarian responders and affected communities sharing on all relevant
mechanisms. parties to a conflict.
This session addressed various challenges and
themselves.
environmental issues
Concerning the opportunities and pitfalls of analysis As with remote collection, the absence of baseline
that can be accessible to
”
identified best practices from existing and emerging based on remote sensing (e.g. satellite images), data, or lack of access to it often remains an issue.
field- and remote-based data collection methods discussions highlighted that while remote analysis
used by a wide range of organizations working in this prioritizes what you can see, users must be careful
To this end, participants recognised the value of
environmental information obtained from official responders
area. not to downplay the risks that you cannot see authorities (including data from past or ongoing
With respect to remote-based data collection,
remotely, such as underground pipelines or other monitoring within the conflict zone or close to it); data Christiaan Triebert, Bellingcat
hidden infrastructure. While an absence of baseline and analyses from local or international environmental
participants identified vital data to include
environmental data limits interpretation of the visible research; and the expertise of internally displaced
geographic conditions, population data, potential
“
impacts, participants discussed the value of remote persons (IDPs) such as environmental professionals,
collection as a starting point, particularly in instances engineers, and community representatives with local
where the alternative is that little data is collected due knowledge who have moved outside the conflict
to security and access constraints. zone and could thus be more easily accessible.
We must be aware of Where the purpose of data collection is to inform
the risk of politicized and prioritize response, discussions highlighted the
difficulties faced by actors in using such data, unless
data that serves the it is fully verified by field data, particularly where data
on harm could become politicized. Participants noted
purposes of parties to
”
that local sources may not always be reliable, either
© OXFAM
© PAX
UN Environment/OCHA Joint Unit www.unocha.org/unep
The 2017 Environment and Emergencies Forum Chair’s Summary
36 37
© PAX
• A rapid environmental assessment focused on
activity, and there is a need to invest time and
issues common to conflicts could serve as a
resources in creating networks and understanding
valuable tool to help humanitarian responders
for collecting as well as sharing data across
both in gaining access to relevant information, and
sectors, and through comprehensive dialogue
in building a clearer data profile on the affected
between numerous stakeholders.
areas; this in turn could eventually support faster
• There is a general need to share and analyze and more effective reconstruction efforts.
information across various organizations
© PAX
• A number of sources of environmental
(including I/NGOs, military, governments, and the
information or methodologies exist and should
private sector), as different actors tend to work in
© PAX
be shared. These include: sources of satellite
silos and are often unwilling or unmotivated to
imagery / remote sensing, unmanned aerial
share information, or lack the knowledge and/ • Younger generations should play a more vehicles, participatory approaches, information
or a platform to do so; to this end, more effective prominent role in decision-making and in gathered by local NGOs and humanitarian
partnerships between UN agencies, humanitarian advancing innovative technology, as they bring a agencies, storytelling, proxies, existing platforms
and environmental organizations are required. fresh mentality, and approach challenges from a and technology e.g. mobile phones. Data
• A data sharing platform accessible to responders different perspective. collection should also deal with issues around
and which features data from reliable sources • Robust data collection methodologies are security and privacy. Crowd-sourcing could be
should be developed; this platform should include needed, where the purpose of the data collection used to complement practitioners’ collection,
various types of data from conflict areas, such as must be made clear to communities. analysis and use of data and imagery.
© PAX
pollution carrying with it acute risks to health.
• Community inclusion and ownership of data, as
well as the development of participant-based
approaches to data collection and analysis are
critical, despite the associated challenges in a
conflict setting due to the political and security
context. To this end, affected communities should KEY OUTCOMES
play a role in data collection, both as a repository
of local knowledge and as active participants, There was a high degree of interest from participants to increase the use of environmental
through the use of citizen science data collection data in their activities. Participants recognized the need to develop practical guidance on
methodologies. New tools should be developed what is available and possible in terms of remote- and field-based data collection, analysis
to address issues such as data security and and sharing of data on environmental risks related to conflict, with a number of organizations
ownership.
including PAX, the JEU, the Toxic Remnants of War Project and Zoi Environment Network
• The ability to access information through remote interested to work on this. High-level commitment and funding is needed to move this
sensing or other means of remote information proposal forward.
collection, including the analysis of mainstream
and social media, is a vital tool to aid humanitarian
© PAX
The
Ignite Stage Connecting
Dadab Story environmental
Eva Wanjiku, Red Cross
Society
Interactive, energizing and dynamic responders through
HumanitarianID
Video presentation: the five-minute presentations on a range Anthony Liew, JEU
environmental impacts of
the refugee community in of topics related to environment and HumanitarianID: a new tool to
connect with environmental
Garissa County and Kenya
Red Cross efforts to
emergencies responders and humanitarian
practitioners anywhere in the
achieve environmental world
sustainability
© UN Environment/OCHA
40 41
Exhibition Space
At the 2017 Environment and Emergencies Forum,
participants had an opportunity to showcase
their work at a designated Exhibition Space.
Participant exhibits included poster and banner
displays of projects, toolkits, training manuals
and the latest technological innovations in
environmental emergency preparedness, response
and environment and humanitarian action. The
Exhibition Space was set up inside the UN Gigiri
Compound, in the main corridor.
The following organizations showcased their work
at the Exhibition Space:
1. Raising Gabdho Foundation, Uganda
2. UN-Habitat, Kenya
3. The International Centre for Research in Agro-
Forestry (ICRAF), Kenya
4. MSB Sweden
5. Maestros Leadership Team, Kenya
6. Zoi Environment Network
©MSB
7. The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines
in Kenya/Philippine Permanent Mission
8. Women Organizing for Change in Agriculture
and Natural Resources Management (WOCAN)
9. The UN Environment / OCHA Joint Unit
42 43
“
the environmental impacts of various land use
Furthermore, protection of natural resources can practices.
prevent conflict, as the degradation of land and the
misuse of resources often lead to tensions. Investment Carlota Lucia Cordon Gonzalez stressed the need to
in ecosystems and resilience projects is a major Environmental degradation adapt legal frameworks to ensure that DRR becomes
opportunity for development and climate finance, a key component of government activities at all
including for the private sector, as these investments is driving disaster risk and levels. She further highlighted the need to break
can have a significant positive impact. This session
explored the potential to further use the environment human insecurity…the the silos between development and humanitarian
sectors, and integrate reconstruction plans with
as a means to strengthen resilience.
challenges do not have to do sustainable development approaches. Ms. Cordon
Gonzalez called for a reconceptualization of
”
Moderated by Sarah King (Food Security Advisor, NRC),
the panel featured a debate and discussion between a lot with money, but instead ourselves and nature, towards seeing humans as
part of the environment instead of placing humans
Jane Madgwick (CEO, Wetlands International), Charles
Owino (Director, National Disaster Operations Centre
with mindsets first.
(NDOC), Kenya), Carlota Lucia Cordon Gonzalez Patrick Alzona called for greater investments in
(Director, Coordinadora Nacional para la Reducción de Jane Madgwick, Wetlands DRR, particularly in the urban context, as part of
Desastres (CONRED) Guatemala), and Patrick Alzona developing resilience. Using the example of the
(Acting Section Chief, Environmental Protection International Philippines, he illustrated the value of volunteerism
and Waste Management Department, Quezon City for managing waterways to reduce environmental
Government, Philippines). degradation. Mr. Alzona also pointed out that
strong leadership is necessary to induce change at
various levels.
The panelists shared their perspectives on how to
move forward, strengthen societal resilience and
ensure greater sustainability in the future.
Jane Madgwick argued that healthy ecosystems
foster peace, and that the environment can function
as a means to strengthen cooperation. She called
for a change in mindsets in order to adopt a new
development approach across all sectors of society;
one which focuses on more resilient landscapes,
and thus, more resilient partnerships. Despite the
inevitable challenges, she urged humanitarian and
development actors to connect and collaborate more
to make a difference in people’s lives.
Charles Owino highlighted the need to address
environmental degradation as part of national
development, and to make sustainability a key
44 45
Moderated by Richard Pearshouse (Associate Di- Andre Dzikus argued that, apart from advancing
rector, Environment and Human Rights, Human the nexus of humanitarian action and develop-
Rights Watch), the panel featured Raouf Mazou ment, it is crucial to also integrate human rights,
“
(UNHCR Representative in Kenya), Fatime Ous- and bring together a multiplicity of actors to ad-
mane (Ministry of Environment and Fisheries, dress urban crises. He explained that the combi-
“
Chad), Francois Grunewald (Director, Groupe URD) nation of unprecedented urban growth across Af-
rica and Asia, and weakening local authorities due
and Andre Dzkius (Coordinator, Urban Basic Ser-
vices Branch, UN-HABITAT). to protracted crises, cause new challenges in the We are seeing
Raouf Mazou explained that the environmental im- We need to get out of our urban context. Mr. Dzikus highlighted the impor-
tance of mapping resources and hazards in cities, increasing conflict
pacts of protracted crises are very serious and must
disciplinary boundaries using remote sensing, artificial intelligence sys-
in cities, but also an
”
be considered, especially in fragile environmental tems and city profiling tools.
contexts. He noted that long-term planning for settle-
and work together increase of cities in
”
ments is crucial as they tend to exist for many years,
often beyond the intended timeframe. To this end, Mr.
Francois Grunewald, crises
Groupe URD Andre Dzikus,
UN-HABITAT
46 47
Plenary Session on Next Steps: Forum outcomes and the Road Networking Session
to UNEA
During the plenary session on next steps, Carl Bruch highlighted the multiple ongoing and planned During the networking session, participants were
(Director of International Programs, Environmental projects and initiatives which had been shared invited to walk around the room, engage with oth-
Law Institute), summarized key lessons learned at the Forum, which serve as irrefutable evidence er participants, identify areas of joint action and
and outcomes from the Forum. that change is underway. He drew attention to the write down personal commitments at the individu-
innovative methods being used by new actors to al and organizational levels.
He concluded that the Forum, its participants, the shape the future of environment and emergencies.
presentations and discussions, are inevitable proof The Green Star Award winners, he observed, are all At the end of the networking session, the commit-
of the fact that environment and humanitarian goals inspiring examples of what can be achieved when ment cards were collected. The JEU compiled all com-
go hand in hand. Mr. Bruch noted that, while we we set our minds to it. mitments made by participants. A total of 68 com-
are working on distinct issues in separate countries mitments were made. Most commitments concerned
and contexts, there is much we can do together. Mr. Bruch stressed that each participant has their sharing information, developing joint trainings and
He emphasized the ways in which the Forum had role to play in implementing the Forum outcomes collaborating on research related to environment and
brought communities together, pointing out that and in integrating environment in humanitarian emergencies. Participants also committed to creating
we are collectively increasing our understanding of action, in order to ensure tangible benefits for comprehensive guidelines at the national level, and
the complex interplay between environment and affected populations. conducting joint advocacy efforts. The main theme
emergencies. which emerged from the commitments, was the will-
He requested participating organizations and actors
ingness of participants to explore options for collabo-
He remarked that, through the Forum, we are jointly to support the work of the JEU in maintaining and
ration, be it through sharing information, training ma-
creating a community of practice and a mutual strengthening a community of practice on the
terials or designing future joint projects. (See Annex
language of how better to address environment topic of environment and emergencies, as well as in
IV for the full list of commitments).
in disasters and conflicts. Mr. Bruch further ensuring that the good work conducted continues to
be advanced and disseminated.
Mr. Bruch concluded by reminding all participants
to play their part in creating coalitions and political
Closing Ceremony
commitments to further action in this field.
During the Closing Ceremony, participants had an
Monika MacDevette (Deputy Director, Division opportunity to offer their feedback on the Forum
of Environmental Policy Implementation, UN through an online survey. (See Annex III for pre-
Environment) and Jesper Holmer Lund (Chief of ESB, liminary results).
OCHA) echoed the words of Mr. Bruch, emphasizing
the need for organizations to support the work of Mette Wilkie (Director, Ecosystems Division; UN
UN Environment and OCHA through its partnership Environment), Jesper Holmer Lund (Chief of ESB,
and the JEU. Ms. MacDevette outlined how the OCHA) and Leif Jonsson (SAGEE Chair), each
Forum outcomes will feed into UNEA, encouraging thanked participants for their contributions and
participants to pledge their support for a pollution- offered closing remarks.
free planet.
48 49
Annexes
Annex I - Agenda
“
09:30 Welcome by Jesper Lund (Chief, Emergency Services Branch, OCHA – Geneva)
Welcome by Leif Jönsson, Chair of the Strategic Advisory Group on Environment and Emergencies (SA-
GEE)
The 2017 Environment and Emergencies 10:00 Keynote speech by Dr. Zaid Noori, Ambassador, Embassy of Iraq to Kenya - Nairobi
better integrate environment in disasters (60 minutes per session: participants take part in two sessions)
Topic 1: Learning from past responses: experiences from around the world
14:30
and conflicts. Now it’s up to each of us to
Topic 2: Getting ready to respond: exercises and trainings
Topic 3: Local level prevention and preparedness for technological hazards and environmental emergen-
”
cies
translate this understanding into action 15:30 Coffee break
Leif Jönsson, SAGEE Chair 16:00 Readiness for Environmental Emergency Response, continued
50 51
52 53
“
satisfied with the Forum. by participants, coming from a range of commitments were made. also noted. Additionally, participants committed to
professional backgrounds drafting projects focused on long term solutions for
2. 83% of the respondents found the duration of • The multiple networking opportunities issues such as DWM, as well as to incorporate scientific
the Forum ‘Just right’. throughout the event
We commit to conduct joint research in order to better comprehend and prepare
for future environmental challenges.
3. The majority of respondents rated each item
of the EEF (content, agenda, administration
7. The majority of respondents will apply
information from the EEF in their work place to
advocacy, develop joint
Some participants specifically committed to
and logistics, registration, venue, hospitality,
background materials, website, involvement of
a certain extent (‘sometimes’ 28%; ‘often’ 42%;
‘always’ 28%).
trainings, and make and share supporting UN Environment and other relevant
actors in implementing conflict-related resolutions.
the case for environment in
”
participants, facilitation methods, networking Particular mention was made to raising the profile
opportunities) as ‘Good’ or ‘Excellent’. 8. 100% of respondents said they will share what
they learned with others in their organization. humanitarian action of the UN Environment / OCHA Joint Unit, as
well as to explore opportunities for advanced
4. Aspects of the EEF that were the most interesting environmental peacebuilding.
“
and useful according to respondents included: 9. The majority of respondents rated each
• Networking opportunities session of the forum positively. The highest-rated An estimated 20% of commitments concerned
• Diversity of session formats sessions were: the ‘Ignite Stage presentations’; sharing information with each other, developing
• Participatory and interactive sessions the plenary panel on ‘Bringing it all together’; the
• Breakout sessions / Group work ‘Plenary Sessions on next steps’; and ‘Collecting
joint trainings and collaborating on research related
to environment and emergencies. Many emphasized Our pledge is to explore the
• Experience / Information sharing
• Fishbowl format
environmental data and monitoring risks’. the potential for advancement, simply through the
exchange of expertise and joining forces to battle and
potential to collaborate with
• Ignite stage presentations
• Diversity of participants coming from
10. A few examples of topics that respondents
would like to see being featured at the next EEF:
resist environmental crises. The advantages of creating
comprehensive guidelines at the national level, and
other environmental actors to
environment and humanitarian communities • Disaster Waste Management
• Climate change
conducting joint advocacy efforts was highlighted engage refugees and IDPs in
by numerous actors. Participants also identified the
5. Some aspects of the EEF that should be improved • Conflict and the environment importance of engaging younger generations in environmental management
”
according to respondents include: • The voice of the affected / civil society / environmental concerns, and committed to educating
• Agenda could be less cramped with fewer community the youth and ensuring their voices are heard. interventions
“
sessions • Good practices
• Plenary sessions could be more dynamic • Gender and emergencies In summary, the main theme which emerged from
• Translation services to help non-English the commitments is the willingness of organizations
speaking participants to better engage in
discussions
11. 82% of respondents will attend a future EEF. We will assist the to explore options for collaboration, be it through
sharing information, training materials or designing
• Greater involvement of the private sector 12. 93% of respondents will recommend others to government in the future joint projects.
• Greater ethnic diversity of participants participate in the next Forum.
• Greater gender balance development of attainable
13. 61% of respondents are interested in
6. The EEF met the expectations of 44% of the contributing to the Environmental Emergencies policies and legislation
respondents and exceeded expectations for more
than 52%.
Centre (eecentre.org).
regarding humanitarian
response and environmental
”
considerations
54 55