GEF The Greenline 60586 APRIL 2010 LETTER FROM THE CEO Dear Colleagues, In March comes spring so it is fitting that we also celebrate World Water Day, a reminder that water is life. Most of the year we take water for granted, but when droughts and floods come it reinforces that this precious resource remains chronically mismanaged, an undervalued commodity in which HOME drinking water and sewage treatment do not reach the LETTER FROM THE CEO MONIQUE customers that need it the most: the poor and the vulnerable. BARBUT Meanwhile national water reforms remain too slow in coming POPs & CHEMICALS and pollution discharges continue unabated. More... LDCF NEWS FROM THE GEF EVALUATION SIMULTANEOUS EXTRAORDINARY OFFICE FROM OUR PARTNERS MEETINGS OF THE CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE BASEL, FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK ROTTERDAM AND STOCKHOLM IN BRIEF CONVENTIONS NEW APPOINTMENTS The three global chemicals conventions, the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions, address UPCOMING EVENTS complementary aspects of the lifecycle of chemicals, or of a country's regime for sound management of chemicals. More... NEW PUBLICATIONS Many chemicals are GEF: RAPID RESPONSE TO THE dangerous to human WENCHUAN EARTHQUAKE and ecosystem health. The Wenchuan Earthquake in Sichuan in China Among the worst is a was a major catastrophe that led to more than range of synthetic 87,000 deaths, destroyed homes of more than 5 organic compounds million people, and produced direct economic that persist in the losses of $120 billion. About one month after the environment for long main shock of the earthquake occurred on May 20, 2008, the Ministry of periods of time. GEF's involvement in Environmental Protection (MEP) of China submitted to the GEF a project on tackling the threats posed by these Rapid Assessment of Chemical. More... Persistent Organic Pollutants dates back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the GEF has committed US$ 360 million to projects in the POPs focal area and leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- WORLD EXPO 2010 IN SHANGHAI financing to bring the total value of the As part of the GEF International Waters (IW) focal GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. area experience sharing and learning program, the Fifth GEF Biennial International Waters Conference was held in Cairns, Australia October 24-29, 2009. A large fraction of life Co-hosted by the Government of Australia and the on earth is GEF, the Fifth Biennial IW portfolio conference is disappearing at a the latest in a series of such South-to-South frightening rate, learning meetings of the GEF IW portfolio the last decade that have been held in threatening the very Hungary, China, Brazil, South Africa, and now Australia. More... basis of human http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/index.html[3/29/2011 1:21:37 PM] GEF The Greenline economies, cultures and livelihoods. Over GEF-UNIDO PARTNERSHIP the last 50 years, human activities have changed ecosystems more rapidly and SUPPORTS POPS-FREE extensively than at any comparable INDUSTRIES period of time in history. The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) plays a leading role in the implementation of the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants. More... Our Story, Our Results. GEF TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE investments promote synergies that FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG generate multiple global benefits SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE CREDITS Editor: Patrizia Cocca, GEF Communication Officer, pcocca@thegef.org http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/index.html[3/29/2011 1:21:37 PM] GEF The Greenline APRIL 2010 LETTER FROM THE CEO Dear Colleagues, In March comes spring so it is fitting that we also celebrate World Water Day, a reminder that water HOME is life. Most of the year we take water for granted, but LETTER FROM THE CEO when droughts and floods come it reinforces that this precious resource remains chronically POPs & CHEMICALS mismanaged, an undervalued commodity in which Monique Barbut drinking water and sewage treatment do not reach LDCF NEWS GEF CEO & Chairperson the customers that need it the most: the poor and FROM THE GEF EVALUATION the vulnerable. Meanwhile national water reforms OFFICE remain too slow in coming and pollution discharges continue unabated. FROM OUR PARTNERS Poor communities depend on wetlands, rivers and deltas for drinking water, FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK livelihoods and food security but their voice is too often not heard-- their needs still unmet. Continuing degradation of the water environment, wetlands, and IN BRIEF downstream coastal areas reflects the lack of political will to improve water NEW APPOINTMENTS resource management. The worsening situation means that degradation and depletion is expanding beyond national borders to downstream countries and UPCOMING EVENTS coastal areas that are starved of water and choked with pollution. Meanwhile the growing threat from climate change promises to make the global water crisis even worse. NEW PUBLICATIONS With all these challenges in mind, the GEF mission on water is a special one. Our Many chemicals are unique role as the largest multilateral environmental fund is to build trust and dangerous to human confidence among countries to collaborate on improved management of their and ecosystem health. large, shared water systems--specifically trans-boundary surface and Among the worst is a groundwater basins and their linked coastal areas and oceans. The security and range of synthetic community sustainability of almost two-thirds of the people on our planet depend organic compounds on trans-boundary surface and groundwater systems that cover 60% of our that persist in the planet's land area. environment for long periods of time. GEF's involvement in GEF is serious about water: we have so far devoted over $1 billion in grant tackling the threats posed by these funding along with $5 billion in matching funds over the last 15 years to Persistent Organic Pollutants dates encourage countries to collaborate and share benefits through collective back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the management of these cross-border waters. To date 149 different GEF recipient GEF has committed US$ 360 million to countries are working with their neighbors on these shared water systems to projects in the POPs focal area and reverse the decline and to sustain future benefits. leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- financing to bring the total value of the GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. Results from a selection of these projects are contained in a GEF publication on water, A large fraction of life environment, and community security "From on earth is Ridge to Reef". disappearing at a frightening rate, threatening the very basis of human http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/letter.html[3/29/2011 1:21:58 PM] GEF The Greenline economies, cultures and livelihoods. Over the last 50 years, human activities have These GEF-funded activities and successful local demonstration pilots have changed ecosystems more rapidly and clearly illustrated that we must take a holistic approach that looks both upstream extensively than at any comparable and downstream to serve these countries. For example, a land use decision is period of time in history. often a water use decision as well. More integrated approaches toward catchment management and consideration of downstream water uses must accompany our normal interests of water supply and sanitation if sustainable development is to become a reality. Our Story, Our The global water crisis represents a crisis of land, water, and natural resource Results. GEF governance as well as one of capacity, political will, and finance. GEF is scaling investments promote up our actions on integrated land and water resource management and we are synergies that incorporating considerations of climatic variability and change as well into generate multiple country-driven requests for assistance. With the timetable for meeting the United global benefits Nations Millennium Development Goals seriously off track, the time for action is now. We should all start by looking upstream and downstream at the land, its biological diversity, and the water if we want to make progress. TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE CREDITS Editor: Patrizia Cocca, GEF Communication Officer, pcocca@thegef.org http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/letter.html[3/29/2011 1:21:58 PM] GEF The Greenline APRIL 2010 SIMULTANEOUS EXTRAORDINARY MEETINGS OF THE CONFERENCE OF THE PARTIES TO THE BASEL, ROTTERDAM AND STOCKHOLM CONVENTIONS By Laurent Granier, Sr. Environmental Specialist, GEF, lgranier@thegef.org HOME LETTER FROM THE CEO The three global chemicals conventions, the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions, address complementary aspects of the lifecycle of chemicals, or of POPs & CHEMICALS a country's regime for sound management of chemicals. The Rotterdam convention on prior informed consent that addresses chemicals that are traded LDCF NEWS can be considered an "early warning" system. The Stockholm convention on persistent organic pollutants seeks to reduce and eliminate the use and releases FROM THE GEF EVALUATION of the most dangerous of synthetic chemicals, whilst the Basel convention on the OFFICE transboundary movement and disposal of hazardous wastes provides a FROM OUR PARTNERS framework for dealing with these chemicals when they are being phased out and FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK become waste that needs to be disposed of. IN BRIEF The GEF is the financial mechanism of the Stockholm Convention of course, and GEF strategies from the onset have recognized that a meaningful approach to NEW APPOINTMENTS implementation of the Stockholm Convention had to be mindful of the broader context of countries' frameworks for sound chemicals management. Most UPCOMING EVENTS recently, this principle is encapsulated in the draft GEF-5 Programming Document which states that "Many of the challenges concerning the management and NEW PUBLICATIONS phase-out of POPs are similar to the steps that countries need to take to comply with the Basel, Bamako and Rotterdam conventions. [...] Therefore, the existing Many chemicals are GEF policy that support to Stockholm Convention and Montreal Protocol dangerous to human implementation should build upon and contribute to strengthening a country's and ecosystem health. foundational capacities for sound chemical management more generally will be Among the worst is a actively pursued [...]". range of synthetic organic compounds Because of the strong links between these three conventions, the parties have that persist in the been working over recent years under the so-called "synergies" process to seek environment for long to enhance cooperation and coordination between them. The process led to the periods of time. GEF's involvement in adoption by the three conferences of the parties of a quasi identical decision on tackling the threats posed by these synergies. The synergies process will be further advanced this 22-24 February Persistent Organic Pollutants dates 2010 when the three COPs meet simultaneously in Bali and discuss together a back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the number of issues including joint secretariat services. The decision of the three GEF has committed US$ 360 million to conventions also "encourages representatives of Parties to support the delivery projects in the POPs focal area and of coherent and coordinated messages from the conference of the Parties of each leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- convention to the GEF [...]". financing to bring the total value of the GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE A large fraction of life FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG on earth is disappearing at a frightening rate, threatening the very basis of human http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/CC1.html[3/29/2011 1:22:24 PM] GEF The Greenline APRIL 2010 GEF: RAPID RESPONSE TO THE WENCHUAN EARTHQUAKE By Jang Ru, Operation Officer, The World Bank, jru@worldbank.org HOME LETTER FROM THE CEO POPs & CHEMICALS LDCF NEWS FROM THE GEF EVALUATION OFFICE FROM OUR PARTNERS FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK IN BRIEF Destroyed town center of the Beichuan County NEW APPOINTMENTS The Wenchuan Earthquake in Sichuan in China was a major catastrophe that led to more than 87,000 deaths, destroyed homes of more than 5 million people, and UPCOMING EVENTS produced direct economic losses of $120 billion. About one month after the main shock of the earthquake occurred on May 20, 2008, the Ministry of Environmental NEW PUBLICATIONS Protection (MEP) of China submitted to the GEF a project on Rapid Assessment of Chemical Contamination of the Wenchuan Earthquake with support of the Many chemicals are World Bank as part of its initial efforts to identify and assess risks associated with dangerous to human releases and generation of persistent organic chemicals (POPs) and other and ecosystem health. hazardous chemical and wastes from improper waste management practices and Among the worst is a industrial facilities that may have been weakened by the earthquake. Given the range of synthetic emergency nature of this operation, the GEF reviewed and approved this project organic compounds with much simplified procedure in two weeks on July 2, 2008. With both the GEF that persist in the and the World Bank's strong support, the GEF project was successfully environment for long concluded as planned on October 31, 2009. periods of time. GEF's involvement in tackling the threats posed by these The GEF Rapid Assessment Project was prepared and implemented as a part of Persistent Organic Pollutants dates a MEP Program on Post Wenchuan Earthquake Environmental Safety back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the Assessment and Countermeasures initiated on June 3, 2008. The project GEF has committed US$ 360 million to supported China's emergency responses to the Wenchuan Earthquake by projects in the POPs focal area and assessing potential environmental impacts and risks associated with the releases leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- of hazardous chemicals and waste (with a focus on POPs) in five hard-hit financing to bring the total value of the counties in Sichuan Province. The project supported three phases of activities: GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. identification of potential sources of POPs and other hazardous chemicals and wastes, rapid assessment of the highest priority sources, and recommendation on risk mitigation. Throughout the three phases, project related information was disclosed through internet and other platforms. A large fraction of life on earth is A project completion workshop financed by the Canadian International disappearing at a Development Agency through the World Bank, was held on December 3 and 4, frightening rate, 2009 in Chengdu, the capital city of Sichuan. The workshop shared the lessons threatening the very learned, particularly concerning POPs issues in disaster risk management. About basis of human 100 participants from MEP, affected provinces (Sichuan, Gansu, Shaanxi, Yunnan http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/CC3.html[3/29/2011 1:22:35 PM] GEF The Greenline economies, cultures Province and Chongqing City), USEPA, consulting firms, and the World Bank and livelihoods. Over task team attended the workshop. The workshop provided participants a lively the last 50 years, human activities have exchange of forward looking ideas and the sharing of key global expertise on changed ecosystems more rapidly and post-disaster risk, reconstruction, and clean-up. It aimed to ensure that the extensively than at any comparable knowledge gained is incorporated into disaster risk plans produced in other period of time in history. earthquake zones in China, and is available to experts working in other countries. img Our Story, Our Results. GEF investments promote synergies that generate multiple global benefits USEPA expert Fred Stroud presented US experience on post-disaster environmental risk assessment and post-disaster waste management. At the workshop, the Bank's rapid preparation and the GEF's rapid review and approval of the project were highly appreciated by its government partner. "The GEF project was prepared and approved ... within only one month, which was record breaking and showed what is truly meant by rapid response," said Yu Lifeng, Deputy Director General of the Foreign Economic Cooperation Office of MEP, the domestic implementing agency of the project. "The rapid processing of this GEF project reflects the Bank's commitment to support our clients when they need us most urgently," concurred by Ede Jorge SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE Ijjasz-Vasquez, World Bank's Sector Manager for Sustainable Development for China and Mongolia. "The GEF is proud to have been part of the Wenchuan Earthquake recovery effort CREDITS Editor: Patrizia Cocca, GEF Communication in support of the people of China and of protection of the global environment," Officer, pcocca@thegef.org reflected by Robert K. Dixon, the Team Leader for Climate Change and Chemicals at the GEF Secretariat. The workshop participants also visited the abandoned production facility of Sichuan Hongda Prosperous Chemical Industry Co. Ltd. at Chuanxindian, Shifang City to gain first hand understanding of the daunting task faced by the province on management of disaster waste, in particular those are hazardous. As one of many industrial sites destroyed by the earthquake, the plant was identified as a high risk pollution source. Intensive site investigation and monitoring were undertaken with assistance of portable equipment procured under the project. The project has been seen as a rapid response model and effort characterized by partnership and trust. Mr. Li Heyi, chief engineer of Sichuan Provincial Environmental Protection Bureau noted that "the ... GEF project has played an important part in ensuring that there was no major secondary environmental accident in Sichuan after the Wenchuan Earthquake." The project succeeded in screening 346 sites with potential chemical (including POPs) contamination risks. All sites were screened for potential PCB releases from in-use electrical equipment and investigated for potential releases of POP http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/CC3.html[3/29/2011 1:22:35 PM] GEF The Greenline pesticides and site specific hazardous chemical or wastes. Waste management facilities, in particular waste incinerators, were investigated for potential dioxin/furan releases. In addition, suspected owners of PCB equipment and POP pesticides were consulted on potential sites of POP storage and releases. A total of 58 priority pollution sources were identified for follow-up mitigation actions. Among others, the project identified that improper management and disposal of disaster waste management may have become a key source of uncontrolled releases of dioxin/furan, two most potent POPs. As the province seeks ways to fully clean up these potential hazards, it is expected that mitigation activities proposed by the GEF project will be included in Sichuan's future post- disaster recovery and reconstruction actions, supported by the Bank's emergency recovery loan. The GEF project is a small but integral part of China and the World Bank's overall quick response to the Wenchuan Earthquake. In addition, the GEF provided China $1 million more grant to support China to take emergency biodiversity conservation measures to support the recovery and reconstruction of Wenchuan Earthquake hit regions in Sichuan Province. Approved on September 5, 2008, this project is under implementation with support of UNDP. TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/CC3.html[3/29/2011 1:22:35 PM] GEF The Greenline APRIL 2010 WORLD EXPO 2010 IN SHANGHAI By Osamu Mizuno, Sr. Environmental Specialist, omizuno@thegef.org The Global Environment Facility will participate in the World Expo 2010 from May 1 to October 31 in Shanghai, China. The theme of Expo 2010 is "Better City, Better Life," representing a central concern of the international community for future policy making, urban strategies and sustainable development. Being the HOME first World Exposition on the theme of city, Expo 2010 will attract governments and people from across the world. The GEF will be among the 50 international LETTER FROM THE CEO organizations and 192 countries which have confirmed participation, and more than 70 million people are expected to visit Expo 2010 POPs & CHEMICALS (http://en.expo2010.cn/expo/expo_english/index.html). LDCF NEWS FROM THE GEF EVALUATION OFFICE FROM OUR PARTNERS FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK IN BRIEF NEW APPOINTMENTS UPCOMING EVENTS NEW PUBLICATIONS The GEF-funded project, entitled Demonstration for Fuel-Cell Bus (FCB) Commercialization in China Project Phase II, in partnership with the Chinese Many chemicals are Ministry of Science and Technology and UNDP, will be show-cased at the Expo, dangerous to human and six hydrogen-powered fuel-cell buses supported by the GEF project will be and ecosystem health. used as part of fleet of zero-emission buses that will serve the main shuttle bus Among the worst is a route for the visitors. The GEF-funded project is intended to catalyze cost range of synthetic reduction of FCBs for public transit applications in Chinese cities and to stimulate organic compounds technology transfer activities. FCBs hold the prospect for both zero tailpipe that persist in the emissions and significantly higher fuel efficiency compared to conventional environment for long vehicles and are considered one of the most promising technologies for the periods of time. GEF's involvement in development of emission-free public transport vehicles. In July 2010, the Expo tackling the threats posed by these will celebrate a "GEF Day" where the GEF and its role in global technology Persistent Organic Pollutants dates transfer activities will be recognized and honored. back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the GEF has committed US$ 360 million to projects in the POPs focal area and leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- financing to bring the total value of the GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. A large fraction of life on earth is disappearing at a frightening rate, threatening the very basis of human http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/CC4.html[3/29/2011 1:22:57 PM] GEF The Greenline economies, cultures and livelihoods. Over the last 50 years, human activities have changed ecosystems more rapidly and extensively than at any comparable period of time in history. Our Story, Our Results. GEF investments promote synergies that generate multiple global benefits TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE CREDITS Editor: Patrizia Cocca, GEF Communication Officer, pcocca@thegef.org http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/CC4.html[3/29/2011 1:22:57 PM] GEF The Greenline APRIL 2010 GEF-UNIDO PARTNERSHIP SUPPORTS POPS-FREE INDUSTRIES By Carmela Centeno, Mohamed Eisa and Heinz Leuenberger, Environmental Management Branch, UNIDO, C.Centeno@unido.org The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) plays a leading role in the HOME implementation of the Stockholm Convention on LETTER FROM THE CEO Persistent Organic Pollutants. Since the Convention opened for signature in 2001, UNIDO POPs & CHEMICALS became one of the principal agencies assisting developing and transition economy countries to LDCF NEWS meet their obligations under the convention. FROM THE GEF EVALUATION UNIDO was awarded the status of Executing Agency with Expanded OFFICE Opportunities by the Global Environmental Facility (GEF) in May 2000 in FROM OUR PARTNERS recognition of its comparative advantage in the area of industry- related POPs issues. FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK With the support of GEF, UNIDO has embarked on actions to assist countries in IN BRIEF the development of their National Implementation Plans (NIPs), formulate NEW APPOINTMENTS environmentally sound management methodologies and technology transfer approaches and has established forums in developing countries and transition UPCOMING EVENTS economies, for the implementation of Articles 5 and 6 of the Convention. NIP Development NEW PUBLICATIONS The implementation of the SC started with the development of the National Many chemicals are Implementation Plans (NIPs) of parties through the GEF Enabling Activities dangerous to human funding mechanism. To date, over 50 countries have requested and received and ecosystem health. UNIDO's assistance to develop their NIPs. The priority actions reflected in the Among the worst is a NIPs have enabled UNIDO to address industrialization issues related to the range of synthetic elimination and/or reduction of POPs emissions and releases to the environment. organic compounds Particularly, the unintentionally-produced POPs releases have been addressed in that persist in the several industrial sectors of Article 5 (Annex C Part II and III source categories) environment for long of the Stockholm Convention. UNIDO has a clear comparative advantage and periods of time. GEF's involvement in mandate to undertake programmes related to these sectors and promote tackling the threats posed by these sustainable industrial development. Persistent Organic Pollutants dates back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the Promotion of Non-combustion Technology GEF has committed US$ 360 million to In response to the Stockholm Convention's provision on the promotion of projects in the POPs focal area and environmentally sound management of POPs, UNIDO has received GEF leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- approval for a global programme on the "Demonstration of viability and removal financing to bring the total value of the of barriers that impede adoption and successful implementation of available, non- GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. combustion technologies for destroying POPs". The programme was approved in May 2003 and currently involves Slovakia on the management of complex PCB wastes and PCB-contaminated equipment, the Philippines for A large fraction of life elimination/disposal of PCB oil and China for the environmentally sound on earth is management of obsolete POPs pesticides and incineration fly ash. With such disappearing at a GEF support, UNIDO has continued to promote the introduction of non- frightening rate, combustion technologies in medical waste management cycle as well as other threatening the very hazardous wastes and chemicals. basis of human http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/Partner1.html[3/29/2011 1:23:10 PM] GEF The Greenline BAT and BEP Programmes economies, cultures and livelihoods. Over In a move to expand its POPs programme and to assist developing countries and the last 50 years, human activities have countries with economies in transition in implementing the BAT/BEP related changed ecosystems more rapidly and provisions of Article 5 of the Convention, UNIDO has established regional forums extensively than at any comparable on BAT/BEP for the East and South East Asia (ESEA) and Countries of Eastern period of time in history. Europe, Caucasus and Central Asia (CEECA) sub-regions. The same programme will be launched in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and the African sub-regions of COMESA, ECOWAS and SADEC. The BAT and BEP Forums are a programmatic regional initiative of UNIDO on the Our Story, Our introduction of the Best Available Techniques (BAT) and Best Environmental Results. GEF Practices (BEP) on industry-related priority sectors using the Convention investments promote guidelines and guidance document as well as the UNEP toolkit for quantification synergies that of dioxins emissions. The main objective of the Forums is to create an enabling, generate multiple non-legally binding framework for regional cooperation to facilitate the global benefits development, diffusion and deployment and transfer of BAT/BEP through the development of regionally-harmonized initiatives for priority industrial source categories. Information dissemination, awareness raising and implementation of measures are done in close cooperation with the joint UNIDO-UNEP Resource efficient and Cleaner production network. Support to Africa LDCs The GEF has strongly supported special programmes in Africa's LDCs to strengthen institutional capacities in implementing some of the priority action plans of the NIPs. Through this initiative, UNIDO and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) have joined hands in assisting African LDCs to integrate their activities related to SC implementation to the sub-regional (COMESA, ECOWAS, SADEC) environment and economic development programmes. Cross-cutting Issues The future GEF chemical management strategy is currently being anchored on the synergy amongst multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs). UNIDO's policy in project formulation and development, strives to explore this synergy and SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE expand on the opportunities linking the MEAs. In a practical example, the development of a BAT/BEP project focusing on unintentionally produced POPs in CREDITS the fossil fuel-fired utilities and industrial boilers, the project explored the Editor: Patrizia Cocca, GEF Communication identification of possible options for the simultaneous reduction of dioxins and Officer, pcocca@thegef.org C02 in response to the Stockholm Convention and Climate Change requirements. The international chemicals agenda is continuously evolving with new agreements being established and new substances coming into focus ranging from speciality chemicals to chemicals in consumer goods and services. The Stockholm Convention will continue to expand its list of chemicals and provide guidance and guidelines on the management of these chemicals. While there is a need to introduce alternatives to these chemicals, other cross-cutting measures such as overall chemicals management could very well feature in future GEF focal areas where countries could benefit from UNIDO support. UNIDO shall continuously develop projects and embark on initiatives on industry- related chemicals management addressing the need for ultimate innovative treatment processes and safe disposal technologies. UNIDO is also committed in developing systems aiming at "closing the loop" of the lifecycle of these chemicals and to prevent pollution at source through engaging both manufacturers and users to take environmental actions in an integrated manner. This reflects the commitment of UNIDO, through the support of GEF, to derive high in its agenda, the implementation of the Convention and supporting green http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/Partner1.html[3/29/2011 1:23:10 PM] GEF The Greenline industry for sustainable industrial development and opening new avenues for transfer of clean technologies. Cleaner production centers will play a crucial role in the information dissemination, capacity building and implementation. TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/Partner1.html[3/29/2011 1:23:10 PM] GEF The Greenline APRIL 2010 GEF PLAYS A KEY ROLE IN FUNDING CHEMICALS AND WASTES MANAGEMENT PROJECTS By Ibrahima Sow, Sr. Environmental Specialist, GEF, isow@thegef.org The POPS Team recently took part in several workshops: the Waste HOME Management Partnership in Geneva, New POPs and the process of reviewing and updating National Implementation Plans (NIPs) for the Mediterranean LETTER FROM THE CEO (outside UE) and French-speaking African countries in Barcelona and finally the Capacity Strengthening and technical assistance for the Implementation of the POPs & CHEMICALS Stockholm Convention in African LDCs in Vienna, Austria. LDCF NEWS The UNIDO expert briefing the meeting in Vienna translates to some extent the FROM THE GEF EVALUATION vision of the GEF to promote programmatic approaches and specifically responds to the increasing demands of eligible countries for NIP implementation. OFFICE FROM OUR PARTNERS While the POPs focal area in the GEF remains intrinsically linked to the FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK Stockholm Convention, it offers real opportunities for environmentally sound management of chemicals and wastes projects. Examples can be seen in two IN BRIEF projects (one in Tunisia and another in Belarus) both addressing priority POPs issues within the context of an integrated wastes management approach. Another NEW APPOINTMENTS approved project in the Pacific SIDS (UNEP/FAO) takes an integrated approach UPCOMING EVENTS to POPs management, in the broader framework of solid and hazardous waste management. This demonstrates that the GEF is positioned as a major donor to play a key role in the field of chemicals/wastes management. NEW PUBLICATIONS The process of updating the NIPs, including new POPs will build upon lessons learned from NIP development, taking also into account funding procedures and Many chemicals are criteria. The GEF will work with the Secretariat of the Stockholm Convention and dangerous to human other partners with a view of determining, in an orderly and cost-effective and ecosystem health. manner, modalities and procedures for updating the NIPs Among the worst is a range of synthetic GEFSEC continues to assist the Least Developed Countries and SIDS in Africa in organic compounds their efforts to start implementation of the priority activities identified under their that persist in the NIPs. This is achieved through providing strategic guidance to the UNEP/UNIDO environment for long expert team, the Agencies and the countries during the process of project periods of time. GEF's involvement in development of the "LDCs/SIDS" program in Africa. This program involves all tackling the threats posed by these LCDs in Africa, parties to the Stockholm Convention with a GEF contribution of Persistent Organic Pollutants dates $18 million and co financing expected to reach $ 20 million dollars. back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the GEF has committed US$ 360 million to projects in the POPs focal area and leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE financing to bring the total value of the GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG A large fraction of life on earth is disappearing at a frightening rate, threatening the very basis of human http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/CC2.html[3/29/2011 1:24:02 PM] GEF The Greenline LDCF NEWS Recent DANIDA Evaluation of the Least Developed Countries Fund The Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF) is a voluntary fund which was established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) at its seventh session in Marrakech in 2001. The Fund, which is managed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF), addresses the special needs of the Least Developed Countries (LDCs), which are especially vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change. This includes preparing and implementing National Adaptation Programmes of Action (NAPAs), which aim to identify "urgent and immediate needs" of each LDC according to specific guidelines provided by the Least Developed Countries Expert Group (LEG). Recently, the Danish International Development Agency (DANIDA) commissioned an evaluation of the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF) for adaptation to climate change which resulted in a number of important insights and recommendations that The GEF is already implementing in order to improve the delivery, effectiveness and efficiency of LDCF programming. The report praised the NAPAs as essential and important policy instruments on adaptation, called for the simplification of the procedures for accessing funds, and flagged in-country institutional and individual capacity as barriers to NAPA implementation. Significantly, it found that the resources currently made available by the LDCF donors are insufficient both in terms of the scale needed to finance climate adaptation planning and implementation in LDCs and in terms of being reliable enough to allow for the programming of implementation needs across all LDCs, a conclusion consistent with the GEF's LDCF/SCCF programming strategy for adaptation. The report's findings regarding the funding constraints are also consistent with concerns voiced at COP 15 that took place in November 2009 in Copenhagen, whereby the Subsidiary Body for Implementation (SBI) recognized that at least US$1.93B are needed for the full implementation of the NAPAs, and requested parties to consider this going forward. http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/ldcf.html[3/29/2011 1:24:35 PM] GEF The Greenline Photo credit Lars Christiansen Maldives: LDCF is funding a project called "Integration of Climate Change Risks into the Safer Island Development Programme" New LDCF Projects New activities under the LDCF include a project in Maldives on Integration of Climate Change Risks into the Maldives Safer Island Development Program. In this low-lying island nation, where more than 70% of critical infrastructure is within 100m of the shoreline, the LDCF is financing adaptation actions that include the development of climate resilient land use plans, updating drainage systems, and restoration of natural systems providing coastal protection. These activities are complemented with training of key specialists in sectors vulnerable to climate change. In Burkina Faso, the Strengthening Adaptation Capacities and Reducing the Vulnerability to Climate Change project will finance the establishment of n early warning system and pilot measures such as testing climate-resilient irrigation techniques, development livestock feed storage facilities, establishing new wells, drip irrigation, and training farmers in climate- resilient agricultural management techniques with the objective of increasing the food security and promoting sustainable agricultural development. http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/ldcf.html[3/29/2011 1:24:35 PM] GEF The Greenline Photo credit Lars Christiansen Burkina Faso: LDCF is funding "Strengthening Adaptation Capacities and Reducing the Vulnerability to Climate Change in Burkina Faso" Update on LDCF/SCCF financing The LDCF has so far supported the preparation of NAPAs in 48 LDCs and will also support implementation of priority actions identified in completed NAPAs. As of January 2010, 43 NAPAs have been completed, and 35 implementation projects have been approved for LDCF funding, 14 projects are currently under implementation and at least 16 projects are expected to be endorsed by the CEO by mid-2010. Existing resources, including new pledges stand at approximately US$200. Currently, around US$120 million has been committed to NAPA implementation on the ground, i.e. Council Approved for Work Program. SCCF adaptation projects support the implementation of adaptation actions in non-annex I parties, its priority areas being water, land management, agriculture, health, infrastructure development, fragile ecosystems, integrated coastal zone management, disaster risk management and prevention. The total resources under the SCCF program for adaptation, including new pledges are US$105 million. The demand greatly exceeds available funding, forcing a temporary freeze for new SCCF projects. As of January 2010, 21 projects have been approved for support under the SCCF. Future funding opportunities depend on donor contribution. During COP 15 in November 2009 in Copenhagen, the SBI recognized that the funding needed for the full implementation of the NAPAs is at least US$1.93B and requested parties to consider this going forward. The next meeting on financing the Least Developed Countries Fund (LDCF) and the Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF), will be hosted by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), in Rome, Italy, on March 11, following the GEF Replenishment meeting. http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/ldcf.html[3/29/2011 1:24:35 PM] GEF The Greenline APRIL 2010 GEF EVALUATION OFFICE BOOK LAUNCH OF "EVALUATING CLIMATE CHANGE AND DEVELOPMENT" By Sandra Romboli, Evaluation Officer, GEFEO, sromboli@thegef.org The GEF Evaluation Office hosted a book launch event at the World Bank HOME Infoshop in Washington DC on February 18th 2010. The book presented "Evaluating Climate Change and Development" is a compilation of papers LETTER FROM THE CEO presented at the International Conference on Evaluating Climate Change and Development, which was organized by GEF Evaluation Office and partners, and POPs & CHEMICALS hosted by the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in May 2008. LDCF NEWS The Conference identified the large and untapped potential of regional evaluation FROM THE GEF EVALUATION networks for practitioners in climate change and development and brought OFFICE together the strong interest in developing capacity and knowledge-management FROM OUR PARTNERS tools to share best practices, guidelines and frameworks for evaluation of climate FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK change interventions, particularly for a growing community of practitioners in developing countries and emerging economies. The book - responding to the IN BRIEF needs identified during the conference - incorporates several cross sectoral themes on climate change and development evaluation. NEW APPOINTMENTS UPCOMING EVENTS The book launch event was a success with a large number of attendees representing the growing community of practitioners interested in climate change NEW PUBLICATIONS and development evaluation ­ from NGOs, Academia, the GEF, the World Bank and other organizations. Many chemicals are The panelists presenting and discussing the book were four renowned members dangerous to human of the international development evaluation arena; Uma Lele, a former Senior and ecosystem health. Advisor of the Independent Evaluation Group at the World Bank; Rob D. van den Among the worst is a Berg, Director of GEF Evaluation Office; Juha Uitto, Deputy Director of the range of synthetic Evaluation Office at the United Nations Development Programme; and Kenneth organic compounds Chomitz, Senior Advisor of the Independent Evaluation Group at the World Bank. that persist in the environment for long periods of time. GEF's involvement in The book launch event was video recorded and posted our website tackling the threats posed by these www.gefeo.org. For further information on the book and the other initiatives on Persistent Organic Pollutants dates evaluation, climate change and development at the GEF Evaluation Office - back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the please contact Gonzalo Griebenow at ggriebenow@thegef.org. GEF has committed US$ 360 million to projects in the POPs focal area and leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- financing to bring the total value of the TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG A large fraction of life on earth is disappearing at a frightening rate, threatening the very basis of human http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/EO1.html[3/29/2011 1:24:58 PM] GEF The Greenline APRIL 2010 EVALUATION OF THE STRATEGIC PRIORITY FOR ADAPTATION (SPA) The Evaluation Office is during the month of February starting up the thematic Evaluation of the Strategic Priority for Adaptation (SPA). The overall purpose of the evaluation is to provide the GEF Council with evaluative evidence to take HOME further decisions on Adaptation in the GEF based on lessons learned from the SPA. The GEF Evaluation Office was requested to conduct an independent LETTER FROM THE CEO evaluation of the $50 million SPA pilot by the GEF Council in November 2008. POPs & CHEMICALS The conclusions and recommendations of this evaluation will be considered in discussions by the GEF Council for future activities on adaptation. LDCF NEWS The objectives of the SPA are to reduce vulnerability and to increase adaptive capacity to the adverse effects of climate change in any of the GEF focal areas, FROM THE GEF EVALUATION or in a combination of focal areas: biological diversity, climate change, OFFICE international waters, land degradation, ozone layer depletion, and persistent FROM OUR PARTNERS organic pollutants. It supports pilot and demonstration projects that address local FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK adaptation needs and generate global environmental benefits. As requested by the Council, all projects under the SPA are funded based on the incremental cost IN BRIEF principle. These projects reflect GEF's multidisciplinary and multi-focal area approach to support adaptation activities. NEW APPOINTMENTS Given the early stages of the implementation of the SPA projects the evaluation UPCOMING EVENTS will focus on an assessment of the strategy itself and the design/implementation of the projects, including adaptation measures, rather than on actual achievement NEW PUBLICATIONS of expected outcomes. The evaluation team is currently being finalized and the approach paper has been drafted for circulation. The evaluation work will take Many chemicals are place between February and October 2010 and the evaluation report will be dangerous to human finalized and presented to the GEF Council in November 2010. and ecosystem health. Among the worst is a For more information, please visit the GEF Evaluation Office website: range of synthetic www.gefeo.org under "Thematic Evaluations", or contact Sandra Romboli at organic compounds sromboli@thegef.org / Claudio Volonte at cvolonte@thegef.org that persist in the environment for long periods of time. GEF's involvement in tackling the threats posed by these TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE Persistent Organic Pollutants dates FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the GEF has committed US$ 360 million to projects in the POPs focal area and leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- financing to bring the total value of the GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. A large fraction of life on earth is disappearing at a frightening rate, threatening the very basis of human http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/EO2.html[3/29/2011 1:25:13 PM] GEF The Greenline APRIL 2010 SGP'S COMMUNITY-BASED APPROACH TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE STOCKHOLM CONVENTION By Small Grants Programme GEF Small Grants Programme (SGP) is GEF's window for small-scale activities HOME at the community level to support the implementation of the Stockholm Convention. It has contributed to the implementation of the Stockholm LETTER FROM THE CEO Convention through piloting innovative demonstration models through community- based interventions, developing communities' capacities, and strengthening POPs & CHEMICALS partnerships to generate greater impact in the persistent organic pollutants (POP) focal area. SGP has funded 236 POPs projects (see Figure 1 for the regional LDCF NEWS distribution of the POPs portfolio). Despite the relatively short duration of SGP's FROM THE GEF EVALUATION intervention in POPs focal area, it has provided innovative models and OFFICE approaches, enhanced technical and management capacities in POPs focal area FROM OUR PARTNERS at the community level through online training, and established partnership with international NGO network for awareness-raising and collaboration. FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK Innovation and Demonstration IN BRIEF SGP has piloted innovative demonstration models and approaches to prevent, NEW APPOINTMENTS reduce and eliminate POPs at the community level. SGP's POPs portfolio mainly contains the following types of projects in POPs focal area: prevention of open UPCOMING EVENTS burning of plastics and other solid waste, integrated pesticide management, organic farming, and awareness raising and capacity building activities. SGP NEW PUBLICATIONS pilot activities have not only provided innovative models for replication and upscaling but also increased awareness of POPs through UNDP's practice Many chemicals are network and the media. dangerous to human A dump for domestic solid waste was severely affecting the community of Isleta and ecosystem health. Sur in Cuba. Approximately 150 tons of solid waste was being burnt at the site on Among the worst is a daily basis, emitting large quantity of dioxin and furan, noxious vectors, smoke, range of synthetic and other emissions. Through a SGP project, the community eradicated the organic compounds source of the pollution and transformed the site into a garden. Three hectares of that persist in the the dump have now been planted with fruit a tree, compost is being produced, environment for long and a plant nursery and recycling facility for rubber, plastics, and metals. The periods of time. GEF's involvement in recycling centre is also providing employment for 40 local residents, including 19 tackling the threats posed by these women. The transformation of the dump has been led by a community member, Persistent Organic Pollutants dates who was also awarded the National Environmental Award 2006, the top annual back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the prize given by the Ministry for the Environment. The project leader has won the GEF has committed US$ 360 million to CNN Hero Award in 2007 and the final nominee for the UNDP Administrator's projects in the POPs focal area and Innovative Award. leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- financing to bring the total value of the Capacity Development GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. POPs focal area is relatively new to SGP. NGOs and communities have relatively low awareness and technical capacity in POPs focal area. Similarly, many national steering committee (NSC) members and national coordinators A large fraction of life (NCs) of the SGP lack adequate knowledge regarding this new focal area. An on earth is interactive online POPs Training Module (www.sgp-pops.org) was developed and disappearing at a launched to build technical and management capacities of NGOs and frightening rate, communities in developing and implementing small scale community projects to threatening the very support the implementation of the Stockholm Convention. This is the first and the basis of human only online training course available for focal area development at the community http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/Partner2.html[3/29/2011 1:25:30 PM] GEF The Greenline economies, cultures level. There are four language versions available online (English, French, and livelihoods. Over Spanish and Russian), and the Arabic version is to be put online soon. As of the last 50 years, human activities have February 2010, 512 national coordinators, SGP grantees and partners have changed ecosystems more rapidly and taken the online training and given highly positive feedbacks to the training extensively than at any comparable module. period of time in history. Partnership SGP has established a collaborative partnership with the International POPs Elimination Network (IPEN) to promote the POPs focal area and to facilitate Our Story, Our communication, coordination and effectiveness in assisting NGOs and CBOs in Results. GEF their efforts to implement the Stockholm Convention and to reduce and eliminate investments promote POPs. A joint communiqué was signed between SGP and IPEN, laying out the synergies that foundation for the cooperation between SGP and IPEN. SGP works closely with generate multiple IPEN to build capacity among eligible NGOs, CBOs and SGP country offices by global benefits providing information about POPs; reaching out to NGOs and communities; sharing the knowledge and experience throughout SGP and IPEN networks, supporting the development and implementation of POPs projects with information and available SGP funds, and leveraging co-financing for SGP POPs projects. TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE CREDITS Editor: Patrizia Cocca, GEF Communication Officer, pcocca@thegef.org http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/Partner2.html[3/29/2011 1:25:30 PM] GEF The Greenline APRIL 2010 WORKING TOGETHER FOR A TOXICS-FREE FUTURE: APPLYING GLOBAL CHEMICAL POLICY TO LOCAL PRACTICE By Björn Beeler, International Coordinator IPEN, bbeeler@ciel.org The International POPs Elimination HOME Network (IPEN) is a global network of more than 700 public interest non- LETTER FROM THE CEO governmental organizations working together for the elimination of POPs & CHEMICALS persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and other persistent toxic substances LDCF NEWS on an expedited yet socially FROM THE GEF EVALUATION equitable basis. IPEN mission OFFICE includes achieving a world in which chemicals are no longer produced or used in FROM OUR PARTNERS ways that harm human health and the environment, and where POPs and chemicals of equivalent concern no longer pollute our local and global FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK environments, and no longer contaminate our communities, our food, our bodies, IN BRIEF or the bodies of our children and future generations. IPEN promotes NGO participation in international chemical policy processes and NGO capacity building NEW APPOINTMENTS to both contribute to the development of such policies as well as apply these policies on the ground in developing countries and countries with economies in UPCOMING EVENTS transition. POPs & the Stockholm NEW PUBLICATIONS Convention Negotiations Many chemicals are IPEN was founded in 1998 in dangerous to human Montreal, Canada during the first and ecosystem health. meeting of the Intergovernmental Among the worst is a Negotiating Committee for a global, range of synthetic legally-binding instrument on POPs. organic compounds Initially, IPEN's main objective was to that persist in the secure the adoption of a strong and environment for long effective global POPs treaty. When periods of time. GEF's involvement in the Stockholm Convention was tackling the threats posed by these adopted in 2001, IPEN revised its platform and scope of work, and agreed that Persistent Organic Pollutants dates IPEN's new mission would be: . . . to facilitate effective involvement by its back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the Participating Organizations in local, national, and international activities to GEF has committed US$ 360 million to promote the elimination of POPs and other persistent toxic substances. projects in the POPs focal area and leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- GEF MSP: The International POPs financing to bring the total value of the Elimination Project GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. Once the Stockholm Convention was adopted, IPEN moved to put the policy into practice. With help from the Global A large fraction of life Environment Facility (GEF) and other on earth is donors, IPEN began to establish its disappearing at a regional infrastructure, and soon was frightening rate, able to support over 290 NGO activities threatening the very contributing to national preparations for basis of human Stockholm Convention implementation in 65 developing countries and countries http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/ngo1.html[3/29/2011 1:25:44 PM] GEF The Greenline economies, cultures with economies in transition. This IPEN project was known as the International and livelihoods. Over POPs Elimination Project (IPEP). the last 50 years, human activities have Sustainability & changed ecosystems more rapidly and Continuity Beyond extensively than at any comparable IPEP period of time in history. The eight IPEN Regional Hubs established in 2004 are sustainable operations Our Story, Our today. In 2007, after IPEP Results. GEF was completed, the investments promote Regional Hubs continued synergies that to maintain regional generate multiple networks, and began global benefits conducting a 2-year Regional Assessment with over 200 NGOs in 80 countries. In 2009, 3-year Regional Action Plan frameworks were finalized, which highlight priority chemical concerns, needs, capacities and opportunities for future activities. Today the eight IPEN Regional Hubs maintain regional NGO networks functioning in Arabic, English, French, Spanish and Russian. Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM) In 2003, IPEN further extended its scope of work by agreeing to engage, as a network, in the preparatory process to develop a strategic approach to international chemicals management (SAICM). IPEN coordinated participation and interventions by public health and environmental NGOs in all SAICM preparatory meetings and in the 2006 Dubai Intergovernmental Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM), where SAICM was agreed. In the margins of the ICCM, IPEN adopted a new common platform: the IPEN Declaration for a Toxics- Free Future, which states, that IPEN has an: ". . . expanded commitment to work for and achieve by the year 2020 a Toxics-Free Future, in which all chemicals are produced and used in ways that eliminate significant adverse effects on human health and the environment, and where POPs and chemicals of equivalent concern no longer pollute our local and global environments, and no longer contaminate our communities, our food, our bodies, or the bodies of our children SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE and future generations." CREDITS Global SAICM Outreach: Making SAICM Real to Civil Society Editor: Patrizia Cocca, GEF Communication Officer, pcocca@thegef.org Since 2006, IPEN has broadened civil society participation from developing and transition countries in SAICM through creation and implementation of the SAICM Global Outreach Campaign. Beyond the hundreds of IPEN Participating Organizations, this Campaign has brought in several other key international health, labor, and agriculture NGO networks to form a global NGO coalition to raise awareness about SAICM. This Campaign has served to expand civil society awareness in all regions where toxic chemical exposure represents a real and growing threat to public health and the environment. IPEN has been a principle player in securing commitments from NGOs and other civil society organizations stating their intention to participate in http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/ngo1.html[3/29/2011 1:25:44 PM] GEF The Greenline national and local efforts that contribute to the SAICM implementation, with the goal of advancing toward the achievement of the 2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) and SAICM 2020 goal. Today, more than 1,000 NGOs in over 110 countries have joined the Campaign. The SAICM Global Outreach Campaign produced NGO guides to POPs, SAICM and Hazardous Pesticides, plus and Citizens' Report for the 2nd International Conference on Chemicals Management. The educational booklets (below) are available in many different languages (see http://www.ipen.org/campaign/). Heavy Metals: Lead & Mercury By 2008 IPEN had begun to expand its efforts into heavy metals, due to NGO priorities noted in 2007/2008 Regional Assessments and the evolving landscape of chemical policy issues, specifically on lead and mercury. Initially focusing on a push for the global elimination of lead in paint, IPEN, working with NGOs across the globe, and launched the Children's Health First and Eliminate Lead Paint campaign. Unfortunately, lead in paint is an old toxic threat still affecting young children today. In 2002, the WSSD took two vital decisions to protect children's health from exposure to lead. The first called for the phase out of lead in gasoline, and the second, the phase out of lead in lead-based paints and in other sources of human exposure. This paved the way for an IPEN Participating Organization from India, Toxics Link, to form a partnership to promote the global phase-out of lead in paints. This partnership proposed a global phase- out at the ICCM2 in May 2009, where it was endorsed. From there, the SAICM http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/ngo1.html[3/29/2011 1:25:44 PM] GEF The Greenline Global Partnership to Eliminate Lead in Paint was created. In addition, IPEN's constituency pushed for IPEN to engage in preliminary discussions for global action on mercury. Therefore, following an IPEN international sampling activity on products containing mercury and their alternatives and the UNEP Governing Councils decision to negotiate a global mercury treaty in 2009, IPEN established an IPEN Heavy Metals Working Group. Since then, IPEN has adopted an IPEN "Views on a Global Mercury Treaty", with the aim to promote a strong mercury treaty to reduce and eliminate mercury threats to children, communities and the environment. Learn more about IPEN's Toxics-Free Future mission and work at www.ipen.org and see the online animation at www.ipen.org/info. TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/ngo1.html[3/29/2011 1:25:44 PM] GEF The Greenline APRIL 2010 FRESH WATER PRAWN FARMING FOR WOMEN LIVELIHOOD IN THE KRIBI AREA, SOUTH CAMEROON By Jonas KEMAJOU SYAPZE, Director OPED ­ Organization for Environment and Sustainable Development, oped_cam@yahoo.fr / jksyapze@yahoo.com Coastal communities in the area of Kribi-Campo depend heavily on freshwater ecosystems for their livelihoods. Here, the freshwater prawn is one of the HOME fisheries resources of significant socio-economic value. Traditional capturing LETTER FROM THE CEO techniques are most often unsustainable and may reduce the population of the species in aquatic ecosystems. POPs & CHEMICALS This project, funded by GEF / SGP was to develop and promote a technology for freshwater prawn farming accessible to local communities. LDCF NEWS FROM THE GEF EVALUATION The main actions included 1) the design of a training tool kit on freshwater prawn OFFICE farming, 2) awareness activities and training of fishing women on prawn species FROM OUR PARTNERS with high reproductive potential, 3) support in building, technical and ecological management of prawn aquaculture facilities and 4) the organization of the FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK marketing chain. IN BRIEF NEW APPOINTMENTS UPCOMING EVENTS NEW PUBLICATIONS Many chemicals are dangerous to human and ecosystem health. Among the worst is a range of synthetic organic compounds that persist in the environment for long periods of time. GEF's involvement in tackling the threats posed by these Persistent Organic Pollutants dates back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the GEF has committed US$ 360 million to projects in the POPs focal area and leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- financing to bring the total value of the GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. A large fraction of life on earth is disappearing at a The project helped reduce post-harvest losses by 100%. frightening rate, threatening the very It has been effective at improving women's income by reducing the number of basis of human hours of work dedicated to prawn farming that have been used to carry on other http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/ngo2.html[3/29/2011 1:25:55 PM] GEF The Greenline economies, cultures activities; It has been calculated an increase of household revenues by 30%. The and livelihoods. Over project also has strengthened the entrepreneurial capabilities of women. the last 50 years, human activities have Monitoring activities will support the establishment of sustainable small and changed ecosystems more rapidly and medium-size community enterprises. extensively than at any comparable period of time in history. This experience shows that real opportunities exist in the development of freshwater prawn aquaculture. To promote the extension of this activity to other fishing communities, OPED has received a grant from the Congo Basin Forest Fund (CBFF) which will finance the construction of 300 prawn aquaculture facilities in the project area. Besides promoting freshwater prawn farming, this Our Story, Our new project will also promote the adoption and development of improved smoking Results. GEF technology for fish drying, and the monitoring of mangroves. This integrated investments promote project will be conducted in partnership with the World Fish Center, the University synergies that of Sterling and Village Communities and will generate substantial alternative generate multiple incomes for the conservation of mangrove ecosystems that are at the center of global benefits current issues related to climate change. Project main results: Active participation of 178 fishermen including 44 men, 104 women and 30 during information and awareness activities in project activities Participatory elaboration of a practical guide on aquaculture for the use of farmers. 100 copies were distributed during participatory exercises involving experts in the field The organization of 30 environmental education sessions with the participation of 197 youth, 192 women and 159 men 85 Fishers of which 58 women have participated in training workshops in aquaculture techniques and basic principles of marketing, accounting and financial management The distribution of fishing equipment to women groups and support of beneficiaries (logistics, financial and technical) in the implementation of their prawn aquaculture initiatives (nursing, food processing, feeding, and maintenance of prawns in cages) The technology for freshwater prawn mastered and 10 cages established with about 180 freshwater prawns per cage; Formulation and processing of 20 kg of food suited to the nutrition of prawns, SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE Creation and registration of two common initiative groups of active women; Development of partnerships between buyers ­ producers CREDITS Editor: Patrizia Cocca, GEF Communication Officer, pcocca@thegef.org TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/ngo2.html[3/29/2011 1:25:55 PM] GEF The Greenline APRIL 2010 STRENGTHENING THE NETWORK OF TRAINING CENTERS FOR PROTECTED AREA MANAGERS OF NORTHERN EURASIA By Elena Nikolaeva, Environmental Education Centre "Zapovedniks", nikol.elena@gmail.com HOME This article presents the results of GEF/UNEP project "Strengthening the Network of Training Centers for Protected Area Managers of Northern Eurasia" that was LETTER FROM THE CEO implemented by Environmental Education Centre "Zapovedniks' and its partners in 2005-2008. POPs & CHEMICALS LDCF NEWS FROM THE GEF EVALUATION OFFICE FROM OUR PARTNERS FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK IN BRIEF NEW APPOINTMENTS UPCOMING EVENTS NEW PUBLICATIONS Many chemicals are dangerous to human and ecosystem health. Among the worst is a range of synthetic organic compounds The project was aimed at improving biodiversity conservation and livelihoods that persist in the through a better management of Protected Areas (PA) in Russia, Ukraine, environment for long Belarus and Kazakhstan. The total project budget was 2.4 million USD, including periods of time. GEF's involvement in 1 million USD from GEF. Among the main participating parties there were federal tackling the threats posed by these protected areas of the 4 countries as well as key PA Agencies (the Ministries of Persistent Organic Pollutants dates Natural Resources of Russia and Belarus, the State Committee for Forestry and back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the Hunting in Kazakhstan, State PA Service of Ukraine Ministry of Environmental GEF has committed US$ 360 million to Protection). projects in the POPs focal area and leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- The main objectives of the project were identified as follows: 1) to improve the financing to bring the total value of the skills of PA managers and staff in four project countries in critical aspects of PA GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. management; 2) to secure stronger political and other stakeholder's support for PA in the region. Within those objectives numerous activities have taken place, especially different A large fraction of life training courses and public awareness campaigns for PA managers. Actually on earth is about 200 Protected Areas were somehow involved in the project, and about disappearing at a 2500 people were trained. As a consequence, PA staff has started to apply new frightening rate, skills and use innovative approaches in PA planning and management. But threatening the very trainings were focused not only at PA specialists: politicians, businesses and basis of human local communities also participated in the programs and were involved in pilot http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/ngo3.html[3/29/2011 1:26:08 PM] GEF The Greenline economies, cultures projects. All that resulted in increased political support for PA in the project and livelihoods. Over region. However, it was one of the most challenging tasks here as the majority of the last 50 years, human activities have people in Northern Eurasia have very little understanding about the values of changed ecosystems more rapidly and protected areas. extensively than at any comparable period of time in history. The project was initiated by Environmental Education Centre "Zapovedniks" ­ an NGO that has been working for 14 years to raise public awareness and support for PA in Russia. It is the only Russian organization that provides trainings for representatives of protected areas. Since 2007 Centre "Zapovedniks" is a member of the Network of European Environmental Training Centers of Our Story, Our Excellence - association of acknowledged professional organizations that train PA Results. GEF staff. investments promote synergies that Indeed the most practical result of GEF/UNEP project is the creation of 4 generate multiple sustainable training institutions in each project country which continue to operate global benefits on a regular basis, have professional teams of trainers, possess methodical and resource materials available for the trainees and, what is very important, developed a unique technique to engage participants in the training process. All educational seminars, round tables and study visits organized by the Training Centers include interactive methods such as professional games and role plays to create effective educational environment and motivate trainees to intensive work. People not only gain knowledge and skills, but also change their perceptions and attitudes somehow. For example, Elena Elistratova from Shorsky national park in Russian Siberia told her colleagues after the training that she" completely changed her attitudes towards environmental education and understood that it is a science which is necessary to conceive during the whole life". Galina Zamyatina, the Deputy Director of Ranger Service in Astrakhansky Zapovednik in the South of Russia wrote the following: "As one of my participants said, if he had taken part in such training courses before, he would have perceived his destiny to be a ranger in another way; he assumes that he completely overlooked his point of view considering his work". Special attention at all seminars is given to the process of exchanging experience between the participants. Usually people that take part in training come from SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE various regions of Russia and CIS, and it is always useful and interesting to learn how their colleagues manage their areas. Each participant gets a chance to organize his own lesson -- «Creative workshop». Every time a seminar ends up CREDITS Editor: Patrizia Cocca, GEF Communication with the development of an individual pilot project by participants for its further Officer, pcocca@thegef.org implementation at their PA. The Training Centers in 4 project countries function as a joint network: exchange their experience, disseminate publications, monitor and evaluate their results. The last meeting of Training Centers coordinators took place in Kanevsky biosphere reserve in Ukraine in December 2009. Now, after eighteen months from the end of the project, it is possible to say that all four Centers have become sustainable: despite of the fact that direct funding from GEF is no longer available, the Centers have gained recognition and get requests to conduct trainings from federal and regional PA, State PA Agencies and different conservations projects (like UNDP, WWF, etc). For instance, Russian Training Center organized 8 seminars and 5 study tours since the end of GEF project and is now involved in 3 other conservation projects. Among the future plans is creation of regional Training Centers in various regions of the country. TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/ngo3.html[3/29/2011 1:26:08 PM] GEF The Greenline IN BRIEF The World Health Organization (WHO) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP) have launched the first global project on public health adaptation to climate change. The project involves a series of pilot projects that will seek to increase the adaptive capacity of national health system institutions, including field practitioners, to respond to health risks associated with climate variability and change. The projects will be executed by Ministries of Health and other relevant national partners in Barbados, Bhutan, China, Fiji, Kenya, Jordan and Uzbekistan. They will all aim to: enhance systems of early warning and early action; build capacity of national actors; pilot specific health risk reduction interventions; and document and share lessons learned in addressing the health risks associated with climate change in their area. The project will receive US$4.5 million for activities from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) ­ Special Climate Change Fund (SCCF) as well as leverage significant co-financing and in-kind support from 2010­2014. [WHO Press Release] [Public Health Case Studies] [Climate-L.org Story on the Funding of the Project] ----------------------------------- Dr. Robert K. Dixon, Leader, GEF Climate and Chemicals Team participated in UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Expert Group meeting to draft and review a Special Report on Renewable Energy Sources and Climate Change Mitigation, 1-2 February 2010, Washington, DC. The IPCC Special Report contains 11 chapters including: renewable energy and climate change, bioenergy, solar energy, geothermal energy, hydropower, ocean energy, wind energy, integration of renewable energy in future energy systems, renewable energy and sustainable development, mitigation potential and costs, and policy, finance and implementation. Approximately 40 experts from around the world participated in the meeting. The final report should be completed in 2010. --------------------------------- The UNDP GEF Project on Healthcare Waste Management is excited to share its first Project Update report. The goal of the project is to demonstrate best environmental practices and best available techniques for healthcare waste to avoid dioxin and mercury releases in eight countries: Argentina, India, Latvia, Lebanon, Philippines, Senegal, Tanzania, and Vietnam. The project facilitates the implementation of the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). Since its beginning in August 2008, the project has accomplished multiple national and global activities. The attached report highlights the project's progress and achievements. For more information about the project, please visit our website at www.gefmedwaste.org. http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/brief.html[3/29/2011 1:26:35 PM] GEF The Greenline ---------------------------------------- The World Bank Group is undertaking global, multistakeholder consultations on its new Strategy to help its clients achieve environmental sustainability. The new Strategy is expected to be completed and approved by December 2010. Launched in October 2009, the consultations include an open dialogue on the strategy concept note (available in six languages at www.worldbank.org/environmentconsultations), the preparation of several background papers on key strategic areas and a series of global consultations on the draft strategy. Comments on the concept note can be provided via web, by email, or by participating to the ongoing consultation events. Some stakeholders are telling us that the Bank should "close the gap between what it says on environment and what it actually does," others that it should communicate more about the links between development and the environment. Do you agree? What do you think the role of the Bank Group should be? Read what others are saying. ARABIC - CHINESE - ENGLISH - FRENCH - PORTUGUESE - SPANISH http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/brief.html[3/29/2011 1:26:35 PM] GEF The Greenline APRIL 2010 NEW FOCAL POINTS AND COUNCIL MEMBERS Name Country Category Date of Nomination Mr. Viktor Armenia Alternate Member 3/23/2010 HOME Martirosjan LETTER FROM THE CEO Mr. Vitaly Kulik Belarus Political Focal 3/18/2010 POPs & CHEMICALS Point/Operational Focal Point/Donor Participants LDCF NEWS (SCCF) FROM THE GEF EVALUATION Mr. Delphin Aidji Benin Operational Focal Point 11/27/2009 OFFICE FROM OUR PARTNERS Mr. Juan Pablo Bolivia Operational Focal Point 1/19/2010 Ramos Morales FROM THE GEF NGO NETWORK Mr. Stevie Botswana Political Focal Point 2/2/2010 IN BRIEF Chilume Monna NEW APPOINTMENTS Mrs. Ingrid M. Botswana Operational Focal Point 2/2/2010 UPCOMING EVENTS Otukile Ms. Ivelina Bulgaria Political Focal Point 11/9/2009 NEW PUBLICATIONS Vasileva Many chemicals are His Excellency Central African Political Focal Point 1/5/2010 dangerous to human Francois Republic and ecosystem health. Naoueyama Among the worst is a Ms. Huang China Operational Focal Point 1/11/2010 range of synthetic Wenhang organic compounds that persist in the Mrs. Alicia Lozano Colombia Operational Focal Point 2/24/2010 environment for long periods of time. GEF's involvement in His Excellency Congo Political Focal Point 11/6/2009 tackling the threats posed by these Henri Djombo Persistent Organic Pollutants dates back to 1995. In the ensuing years, the Mr. Solo Mara Fiji Political Focal Point 2/15/2010 GEF has committed US$ 360 million to projects in the POPs focal area and Mr. Jope Fiji Operational Focal Point 1/10/2010 leveraged some US$ 440 million in co- Rinabobo financing to bring the total value of the Davetanivalu GEF POPs portfolio to US$ 800 million. Mr. Remy Rioux France Council Member/Donor 1/27/2010 Participants (Replinishment)/Donor A large fraction of life Participants (SCCF) on earth is Mr. Louis Leandre Gabon Operational Focal Point 3/6/2010 disappearing at a Ebobola Tsibah frightening rate, threatening the very Mr. George Georgia Political Focal Point 3/12/2010 basis of human Khachidze http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/fp-cm.html[3/29/2011 1:27:01 PM] GEF The Greenline economies, cultures and livelihoods. Over Mrs. Hanny- Ghana Political Focal Point 12/10/2009 the last 50 years, human activities have Sherry Ayittey changed ecosystems more rapidly and extensively than at any comparable Mr. Georges Guinea Political Focal Point 3/11/2010 period of time in history. Niankoye Delamou Mr. Joao Guinea-Bissau Alternate 3/2/2010 Raimundo Lopes Member/Operational Our Story, Our Focal Point Results. GEF investments promote Mr. Rigoberto Honduras Political Focal Point 3/2/2010 synergies that Cuellar Cruz generate multiple Mr. Arief Yuwono Indonesia Operational Focal Point 12/14/2009 global benefits Mr. Mahmoud Iran Council Member/Political 2/11/2010 Barimani Focal Point/Operational Focal Point H.E. Mrs. Narmin Iraq Political Focal Point 2/12/2010 Othman Hassan Dr. Ali Abdul - Iraq Operational Focal Point 2/12/2010 Zhra Zebon Al- Lami Mr. Erol Kala Kosovo Operational Focal Point 3/11/2010 Mr. Nurlan Kyrgyz Republic Political Focal Point 3/25/2010 Aitmurzaev Mrs. Dr. Lao PDR Political Focal Point 2/15/2010 Viengsavanh Doungsavanh His Excellency Lebanon Political Focal Point 1/11/2010 SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE Mohammed Naji Rahal CREDITS Editor: Patrizia Cocca, GEF Communication Amb. Sylvester Liberia Political Focal Point 12/16/2009 Officer, pcocca@thegef.org Grigsby Mrs. Christine Madagascar Operational Focal Point 2/18/2010 Edmee Ralalaharisoa H.E. Mr. Branimir Montenegro Political Focal Point 3/31/2010 Gvozdenovic Mrs. Nada Montenegro Operational Focal Point 3/31/2010 Medenica Ms. Tai'atu Ata'atu Nauru Political Focal Point 12/13/2009 Mr. Lalmani Joshi Nepal Operational Focal Point 12/17/2009 Ms. Carolyn New Zealand Political Focal Point 12/1/2009 Schwalger Ms. Tui Dewes New Zealand Operational Focal Point 12/1/2009 http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/fp-cm.html[3/29/2011 1:27:01 PM] GEF The Greenline H.E. Ms. Sandra Palau Political Focal Point 12/12/2009 S. Pierantozzi Mrs. Doina Frant Romania Political Focal Point 3/19/2010 Mr. Igor Zotov Russian Council Member/Political 3/23/2010 Federation Focal Point Ambassador Seychelles Political Focal Point 3/25/2010 Barry Faure Dr. Denis Sandy Sierra Leone Political Focal Point 11/19/2009 Mr. Gunnar Sweden Operational Focal Point 1/14/2010 Caperius Mr. Medha Thailand Political Focal Point 12/24/2009 Promthep Mr. Elyes Lakhal Tunisia Political Focal Point 1/7/2010 Dr. Babageldi Turkmenistan Political Focal Point 3/9/2010 Annabayramov Dr. Jumamurad Turkmenistan Operational Focal Point 3/9/2010 Saparmuradov Mr. Seve Tuvalu Political Focal Point 3/24/2010 Lausaveve Mr. Nariman Uzbekistan Political Focal Point 3/29/2010 Umarov TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE GREENLINE -- CLICK HERE FOR COMMENTS OR INFORMATION SEND AN EMAIL TO PCOCCA@THEGEF.ORG http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/fp-cm.html[3/29/2011 1:27:01 PM] GEF The Greenline NEW STAFF Ulrich Apel, a German National, who has joined the Natural Resources Team as a Senior Environmental Specialist with a focus on combating land degradation and sustainable forest management. Prior to joining the GEF, he has worked for 15 years as a consultant for forestry and natural resource management in various bi- and multilateral development projects and programs. Ulrich was chief technical advisor of several large-scale reforestation and sustainable forest management projects in Vietnam and China. He also engaged in field research in community forestry and in analytical and advisory work related to land use planning, agriculture policy, land tenure, community livelihoods and legal framework analysis. Ulrich holds a Masters in Forestry Sciences and a PhD in Tropical and Subtropical Forest Management from the University of Goettingen, Germany. ---------------------------------- Caroline Sadacca, a French National who joined the Operations and Business Strategy Team as a Senior Financial Officer today, February 16, 2010. Prior to joining the GEF, Caroline worked in the Concessional Finance and Partnerships (CFP) division of the World Bank, specializing on IDA finances. In CFP, Caroline was responsible for the management of IDA's business processes and daily transactions as well as maintaining donor relationships in the context of IDA's replenishment process. Her responsibilities also included identifying business needs for new systems projects and designing and implementing them. Prior to joining the World Bank Group, Caroline worked as a Credit Analyst in a Washington DC commercial bank. Caroline holds an MBA in International Finance from American University. --------------------------------- Glynis Barber, a Sierra Leonean and British national who joined the GEF Secretariat as a Program Assistant to the Adaptation cluster under the Climate Change and Chemicals team on January 11, 2010 . Prior to joining the GEF, Glynis worked as Secretary to the Head of Press and Public Diplomacy at the Delegation of the European Commission to the US in Washington, DC. Before moving to the US, she lived in London and worked at the Sainsburys Head Office, in several positions including Secretary to the Division Manager of Business Accounting Services and as a Forecast Analyst - monitoring sales and growth of trade portfolios, as well as managing their budgets to meet year-end financial targets. She also worked as Sales Admin Manager and as a Bi-lingual Executive Assistant at Doux Poultry Ltd , a division of the french international exporting company - Doux S.A. based in London. Glynis holds a B.A. in Languages and a Masters in International Business. -------------------------------------------- Andrew Velthaus, a national of the United States, who joined the GEF Secretariat as a Senior Policy Officer, on January 11, 2010. Until recently, Andrew had served as the U.S. Department of the Treasury's GEF http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/newstaff.html[3/29/2011 1:32:32 PM] GEF The Greenline Desk Officer between 2006 and 2009, where he was responsible for coordinating all aspects of U.S. Government policy towards the GEF. He also served as the U.S. Treasury's desk officer for the International Fund for Agricultural Development, including formulation of U.S. Government positions on IFAD's Eighth Replenishment in 2008. During a prior seven year assignment at the U.S. Treasury (1995-2002), Andrew served as a macroeconomist covering Asian economies, as a financial services trade negotiator, and finally worked on environmental and safeguard policy issues concerning the multilateral development banks. Between 2002 and 2006, Andrew worked first for Conservation International (CI) and later for the African Wildlife Foundation, both in Washington, DC. While at CI, he assisted in managing and coordinating relations with several multilateral organizations, including the Global Environment Facility and its agencies. Andrew holds a Master of Pacific International Affairs from the Graduate School of International Relations and Pacific Studies (IR/PS) from the University of California, San Diego. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and East Asian Studies from McGill University, Montreal, Canada. ---------------------------------------- Saliha Dobardzic who joined the Climate and Chemicals team on January 11, 2010 as a Climate Change Specialist. She will be working in the adaptation cluster team, assisting the coordinator in managing the Least Developed Countries Fund, among other tasks. Saliha's involvement with environmental issues began with founding the first student environmental awareness group at Kuwait University, where she obtained her Bachelors of Science in Zoology. She has since worked for the World Bank in post-conflict Bosnia, her country of birth, and later on environmental and urban issues with the Mediterranean Environmental Technical Assistance Program. She has also worked extensively for the World Bank's Middle East and North Africa climate change group devising and implementing the regional climate change strategy and, most recently, served as Project Coordinator of the regional climate change and migration study. She has experience with the UN-Habitat in Nairobi, The Smithsonian Conservation and Research Center, and a number of prominent NGOs, as well as in the private sector in the United States as a climate change expert, and internationally. Saliha has a Masters of Science in Sustainable Development and Conservation Biology from the University of Maryland, College Park where she went on to doctoral studies on human-environment dynamics applying spatial science tools. She is a co-author of several published studies and reports on climate change. ---------------------------------------- Ivana Horvathova, a Slovak national, who joined the GEF Secretariat on February 8, 2010. Prior to joining the Adaptation Fund Board Secretariat as a Program Assistant, Ivana worked as a report writer during the Adaptation Fund Board meetings in Bonn, Germany. That experience has allowed her to get to know the AFB and its procedures well and from its very beginning. Before that, Ivana was a consultant in the Adaptation team of the Climate Change Secretariat (UNFCCC) in Bonn, Germany, where she was working on a database of adaptation projects in developing countries. She had also done several internships and traineeships in various institutions, namely the Council of the EU's Liaison Office to the UN and the WTO in Geneva, Switzerland; the Climate Change Secretariat in Bonn, Germany; the Permanent Representation of the Slovak Republic to the EU in Brussels, Belgium; the Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies in Cologne, Germany; and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Slovak Republic in Bratislava, Slovakia. Ivana holds a Master's degree in International Relations and Diplomacy from the Faculty of Political Science and International Relations of the Matej Bel University in Banska Bystrica, Slovakia. Currently, she also is a doctorate candidate in International Politics at the University of Cologne, Germany. http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/newstaff.html[3/29/2011 1:32:32 PM] GEF The Greenline UPCOMING EVENTS Date Event Venue April GEF 5 Replenishment Meeting Paris , 7, France 2010 April Climate Change and Enhancing Private Washington 7, Sector Investments in Clean Energy ­ a DC 2010 perspective from the Global Leadership for Climate Action April US Launch of the IYB Washington 13, DC 2010 April GEF Earth Day Event Washington 21, DC 2010 May 1, EXPO 2010 Shangai, 2010 China May Intl' Day of Biodiversity 22, 2010 May 4th GEF Assembly Punta del 24, Este, 2010 Uruguay June World Environment Day 5, 2010 June World Day to Combat Desertification 17, 2010 June 37th GEF Council Meeting Washington 28, DC 2010 http://www.thegef.org/gef/greenline/mar10/events.html[3/29/2011 1:42:36 PM]