NATIONAL CAPACITY SELF-ASSESSMENT REPORT and... · 2012. 2. 22. · Jamaica’s National Capacity...

NATIONAL CAPACITY SELF-ASSESSMENT REPORT

Prepared for

National Environment and Planning Agency National Capacity Self-Assessment Project (NCSA)- Jamaica

10-11 Caledonia Avenue Kingston 5 Jamaica

Prepared by

Denise Forrest Lead Consultant & Project Manager

&

Dr. Elaine Fisher Natural Resource Management Specialist

September 2005

Jamaica’s National Capacity Self Assessment Report, September 2005

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Table of Contents

LIST OF ACRONYMS ............................................................................................................................................. III ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ....................................................................................................................................... V

1. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND...................................................................................................... 1 2. PROJECT INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS ....................................................................................... 4

2.1 The Project Management Unit............................................................................................................4 2.2 The Team ................................................................................................................................................4 2.3 The Project Steering Committee.........................................................................................................4 2.4 Political Oversight Committee............................................................................................................5

3. PROCESS................................................................................................................................................................ 6 3.1 Approach to assessment.......................................................................................................................6 3.2 Workshops..............................................................................................................................................6

4. FINDINGS .............................................................................................................................................................. 7 4.1 Thematic Assessments ..........................................................................................................................7

4.1.1 Convention on Biological Biodiversity.............................................................................................. 7 4.1.1.1 The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety.......................................................................................... 10 4.1.2 United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.................................................................... 12 4.1.3 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change ........................................................... 13

4.2 Cross cutting Issues...........................................................................................................................16 4.2.1 Public Awareness Education and Training....................................................................................... 16 4.2.2 Policy and Legal................................................................................................................................ 19 4.2.3 Institutional and Funding .................................................................................................................. 20

5. PRIORITY AREAS FOR ACTION............................................................................................................................ 21 5.1 Convention on Biological Diversity.................................................................................................21

5.1.1 The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety............................................................................................... 22 5.2 United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification................................................................23 5.3 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change......................................................23 5.4 Public Awareness Education and Training....................................................................................23 5.5 Institutional and Funding..................................................................................................................24

6. RECOMMENDATIONS............................................................................................................................................ 28 6.1 Convention on Biological Diversity.................................................................................................28

6.1.1 Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety....................................................................................................... 28 6.2 United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification................................................................28 6.3 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change......................................................30 6.4 Public Awareness Education and Training....................................................................................32 6.5 Policy and Legal..................................................................................................................................32

6.5.1 Legislation......................................................................................................................................... 32 6.5.2 Policy ................................................................................................................................................ 34

6.6 Institutional and Funding..................................................................................................................34 6.7 Opportunities for synergistic and cross cutting capacity building.............................................35

7. MONITORING AND EVALUATION......................................................................................................................... 37 APPENDICES............................................................................................................................................................... 39

APPENDIX I. List of Participants -National Capacity Self Assessment Project Launch...................40 APPENDIX II. List of Reports .........................................................................................................................42 APPENDIX III. Terms of Reference – Project Steering Committee .........................................................43 APPENDIX IV. National Capacity Self Assessment Project Steering Committee Members...............44 APPENDIX V. List of participants at the various focus groups/workshops.......................................46 APPENDIX VI. Opportunities for synergistic capacity building..............................................................51


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LIST OF ACRONYMS ACCC Adapting to Climate Change in the Caribbean

BCH Biosafety Clearing House

CBD Convention on Biological Diversity

CBOs Community Based Organisations

CDM Clean Development Mechanism

CHM Clearing House Mechanism

CIDA Canadian International Development Agency

CNA Competent National Authority

COP Conference of the Parties

COP-MOP Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological

Diversity (CBD) serving as the meeting of the Parties to the

Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety

CPACC Caribbean: Planning For Adaptation To Climate Change

CSGM Climate Change Studies Group Mona

CWIP Coastal Water Quality Improvement Project

ENACT Environmental Action Programme

EU European Union

GEF Global Environment Facility

GOJ Government of Jamaica

IDB Inter-American Development Bank

IOJ Institute of Jamaica

JaNEAP Jamaica National Environmental Action Plan

LMOs Living Modified Organisms

MACC Mainstreaming Adaptation for Climate Change

MFAFT Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade

MLE Ministry of Land and Environment

MPAs Marine Protected Areas

MS Meteorological Services

MSP Medium Sized Project

NAP National Action Plan


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NBSAP National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan

NCCC National Communication on Climate Change

NCSA National Capacity Self Assessment

NCST National Commission on Science and Technology

NEPA National Environment and Planning Agency

NFP National Focal Point

NGOs Non Government Organisations

NISP National Implementation Support Partnership

NHD/IOJ Natural History Division/Institute of Jamaica

NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NRCA Natural Resources Conservation Authority

PDF-A Project Development Facility Block A

PIOJ Planning Institute of Jamaica

PMU Project Management Unit

PSC Project Steering Committee

R2RW Ridge to Reef Watershed Project

RADA Rural Agricultural Development Authority

RAMSAR Ramsar Convention on Wetlands

SIDs Small Island Developing States

SML Sustainable Land Management

TNC The Nature Conservancy

TORs Terms of Reference

UNCCD United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

UNDP United Nations Development Programme

UNEP United Nations Environmental Programme

UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

USAID United States Agency for International Development

USDA US Department of Agriculture

UWI University of the West Indies

WRA Water Resources Authority


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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We wish to thank the National Environmental and Planning Agency, the Ministry of Land and Environment and the members of the Project Steering Committee (PSC) for their support and assistance during the execution of the project. We also wish to extend our appreciation to the many organisations and individuals who participated in the consultations. Their contributions were invaluable to the NCSA process. Special thanks go to Mrs. Winsome Townsend, Director Strategic Planning Policy and Projects Division (NEPA) and chair of PSC, Miss Keina Montaque, Project Assistant (NCSA) and the Conventions Focal Points for their support. Funding for the NCSA was provided by the Government of Jamaica, United Nations Development Programme and the Global Environment Facility.


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1. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND In January 2000, the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched the Capacity Development Initiative, to identify priority issues and capacity development needs in a number of regions and countries. The capacity development initiative is intended to further assist countries to comply with the various obligations, under the three “Rio” Conventions separately, namely, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Their implementation remains a major challenge for developing countries, particularly small island developing states (SIDS). Some findings were:

• capacity development needs at the overall systems leve ls; • the existence of synergies across Conventions in terms of capacity needs ; and • the need for programmatic approaches to capacity development that are

nationally driven and reflect country priorities. As a result of the findings, in May 2001, the GEF approved the provision of funding for countries to undertake self assessment capacity building needs, with emphasis on cross-convention synergies in capacity building activities. Jamaica as a party to each of these Conventions and has found it very challenging to implement the various decisions, programmes and or recommendations of these Conventions. The country had not yet examined its capacity needs across the three “Rio” Conventions and hence the National Capacity Self Assessment Project (NCSA) provided Jamaica with the opportunity to “conduct a thorough self-assessment and analysis of national capacity needs, priorities and constraints with respect to meeting global environmental management objectives”. Several programs for capacity building in government and non-governmental organizations have been carried out in Jamaica since the Rio Summit, including projects supported by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), and the Commonwealth Secretariat. However, while these programs have contributed to developing capacity in specific areas of the environmental sector, none have been focused directly on capacity issues related to implementation of the three conventions, nor have any been designed to look at cross-cutting issues between the conventions. In addition, while numerous programs have examined individual and institutional capacity issues, none have assessed systemic capacity issues in Jamaica.


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The NCSA process provided Jamaica with the opportunity to conduct a thorough self-assessment and analysis of national capacity needs, priorities and constraints to meet global environmental management objectives as set out in the Rio conventions and related international instruments. The process facilitated a cross-sectoral process of consultations, stocktaking, assessments, sequencing, and prioritization of capacity needs, particularly for identifying obstacles that impede the country from fully meeting its obligations under the Rio Conventions. The project officially began in March 2004 and was expected to be completed over 15 a fifteen month period, ending date being June 30, 2005, however, this was ext ended to September 30, 2005. The official launch took place on June 30, 2004 by the Minister of Land and Environment, the Hon. Dean Peart. The list of attendees can be found in Appendix I. The specific objectives to be accomplished through the project implementation are inter alia:

• identify, confirm and review priority issues for action within the thematic areas of Biodiversity, Climate Change and Desertification;

• explore related capacity needs within and across the three thematic areas; • elaborate a national action plan that focuses on capacity building to address

the global environmental commitments; • provide a solid basis for the preparation of requests for future external funding

and assistance; • link country action to the broader national environmental management and

sustainable development framework; and • monitor and evaluate the implementation of the action plan as part of a

process of continuous improvement.

The project was expected to produce the following outputs:

• build national capacity to take issues related to the three Conventions into account in general planning and strategy formulation;

• find ways to coordinate and harmonize overlapping activities among the three Conventions and to help to ensure effective national measures to protect the global environment;


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• prepare a comprehensive national action plan focused on capacity building that will identify overall goals, specific objectives to be achieved, and courses of action;

• identify follow-up projects; • support the transition from this enabling activity to the actual implementation of

identified follow up measures addressing loss in biodiversity, losses in soil fertility and climate change;

• enhance general domestic awareness and knowledge about the three Conventions and their inter-relationship; and

• strengthen dialogue, information exchange and cooperation among all relevant stakeholders including governmental, non-governmental, academic and private sectors.

Appendix II contains a list of the reports produced from the project. The National Action Plan details the short, medium and long term activities which should be undertaken to address the findings and recommendations of the NCSA. The Plan includes a number of project concepts,/notes which will need to be further developed in Phase II in order to obtain the required financial support for their execution. At the conclusion of the project a total of US one million dollars is available to begin to address some of the issues identified.


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2. PROJECT INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS The National Environment and Planning Agency was the executing agency, the UNDP being the Implementing Agency.

2.1 The Project Management Unit The Project Management Unit (PMU) was housed within the Strategic Planning: Policies and Projects Division of the National Environment and Planning Agency, (NEPA). Overall guidance on the execution of the project was provided by the Director of this unit. The PMU was staffed by a Project Manager (who also served as the Lead Consultant), a Natural Resource Management Specialist, and a Project Assistant. )

2.2 The Team An early activity of the project was the contacting of persons to carry out the various tasks necessary to execute the project. The team was comprised of: (a) Project Manager/Lead Consultant Ms Denise Forrest (b) Natural Resource Management Specialist (Environmental Specialist) also

Thematic Consultant, Biodiversity Dr. Elaine Fisher (c) Project Assistant Ms. Keina Montaque (d) Thematic Consultant – Land Degradation Ms. Marjorie Stair (e) Thematic Consultant –Climate Change Mr. Clifford Malung (f) Policy and Legal Consultants Mr. Hugh Hyman & Ms Rainee Oliphant (gj) Public Awareness and Education Specialists Mrs. Penelope Budhall &

Mr. Aldin Bellinfantie The National Focal Points for each Convention, technical experts, NGOs and CBOs, working on the implementation of the Conventions supported the work of the consultants.

2.3 The Project Steering Committee A Project Steering Committee (PSC) was established with a balanced representation from key government ministries, academic institutions, and environmental non governmental organizations (NGOs) and community based organizations (CBOs). Its role was and is technical guidance to the execution of the project (first fifteen months) and support the respective Focal Points during the monitoring of the implementation of the Action Plan. The PSC has a total membership of twenty two persons from eighteen organizations whose work is related to the three conventions and sustainable development issues. The Committee has been chaired by Mrs. Winsome Townsend, Director of the Strategic Planning: Policies and Projects Division of NEPA. Its inaugural meeting was held on May 6th, 2004. The life of the PSC is expected to be twenty seven (27) months in the first instance. The Terms of Reference and the composition of the PSC can be seen in Appendices III and IV respectively.


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2.4 Political Oversight Committee The Natural Resources Sub Committee of the cabinet was identified to provide political oversight to the NCSA Project. A Cabinet note was sent through the Ministry of Land and Environment (MLE) to ensure that the Committee was kept abreast of the project.


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3. PROCESS

Phase I of the NCSA process was conducted over 18 months, during which a number of activities including focus group discussions workshops, interviews and surveys were undertaken.

The process of conducting the NCSA was based on the following principles to ensure that it had wide-spread support: • ensuring national ownership, leadership and policy commitment; • utilising existing coordinating mechanisms and structures where appropriate; • making use of provisions and obligations of the conventions; • promoting comprehensive participation; • adopting a holistic approach to capacity building; and • adopting a long-term approach to capacity building within the broader sustainable development context. Phase I was completed at the end of September 2005 and monitoring of the implementation of the Action Plan (Phase II) will take place over 12 months.

3.1 Approach to assessment The project took into consideration policies, national reports to the three Convention and the various relevant environmental related initiatives/projects that have been carried out not only by the government but also by international aid agencies, CBOs and local NGOs. For example, analyses of the National Strategy and Action Plan for Biological Diversity, the National Communication on Climate Change (NCCC), and National Reports to the UNCCD formed an important part of the assessment. A stocktaking exercise provided a baseline situation for each of the thematic areas of the three Conventions: biodiversity, climate change, desertification/land degradation; and formed the basis of the thematic assessments to follow. This was followed by thematic assessments of the three Conventions in which capacity constraints for priority areas were identified for each thematic area. With the input of the various stakeholders, priority areas for action were identified. These are reflected in the Action Plan.

3.2 Workshops Throughout the processes consultations were held with the various stakeholders by way of Workshops or Focus Group meetings. Also there were presentations to the PSC of the findings during the executing phase of the project. A list of the Workshops and Focus Group meetings and the participants can be found in Appendix V.


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4. FINDINGS

4.1 Thematic Assessments

4.1.1 Convention on Biological Biodiversity Background The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is one of the so called three “Rio Conventions” which opened for signature on June 5, 1992 at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development, held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Jamaica was one of the many countries which signed the Convention at that time, indicating its commitment to the Convention’s objectives. The Convention entered into force in December 1993 and Jamaica ratified it in January 1995. Currently there are 188 Parties to the Convention and 108 to its Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety. Purpose The National Capacity Self-Assessment within the thematic area of Biodiversity sought to review Jamaica’s implementation of the CBD with a view to identifying priority areas for action to facilitate better implementation. In an earlier phase of the project a stocktaking exercise was conducted, providing a “baseline situation” of the country’s implementation of the Convention1. Information was gathered from inter alia, the two National Reports, the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, (NBSAP), and existing capacity building related projects, such as the Ridge to Reef Watershed Project (R2RW), and the Environmental Action Programme (ENACT). The objectives of the thematic profile are to identify:

• priority issues; • capacity constraints for these issues at various levels (systemic, institutional and

individual); and • opportunities for capacity building to address the identified constraints.

National Implementation of the Convention Since the entry into force of the Convention, the Conference of the Parties (COP) has held 7 meetings and adopted approximately 176 decisions on a number of thematic areas and cross-cutting issues related to implementation of the Articles of the Convention. Detailed work programmes have been developed for the seven thematic areas and periodic reviews of their implementation are provided for by the COP. The cross cutting issues relate to the Convention’s provisions in Articles 6-19. In addition to implementing the decisions relating to the various thematic areas and cross-cutting issues,

1Draft Stocktaking Report prepared for the National Capacity Self Assessment Project (NCSA/UNDP/GEF/GOJ), June 2004.


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Parties are obligated to submit national reports and develop National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans. Since ratifying the Convention in 1995, Jamaica has implemented a number of the Convention’s decisions. These include:

• submission of its first (interim report) and second National Reports to the CBD Secretariat;

• establishment of the National Clearing House Mechanism with connections to CBD Central Portal;

• establishment of an Alien Invasive Species Working Group; • completion and distribution of a National Biodiversity Strategy and Action; and • establishment of a “National Implementation Support Partnership” (primarily with

the Nature Conservancy), to better implement the programme of work on protected areas.

The first National Report is a rather brief report which contains a number of CBD related activities taken from the first Jamaica National Environmental Plan (JaNEAP) which was prepared in 1995. The second National Report is a comprehensive report prepared in the required CBD format. A review of this report shows that while there has been some implementation for almost all of the Convention’s substantive articles, (Articles 5-19), the degree of implementation has not been significant for most articles, with adequacy of resources being described as “severely limiting” for the majority of articles. Recognising the broad scope of the Convention and the need for a “focused approach” for effective implementation, the COP adopted a Strategic Plan at its sixth meeting. Goal 3 of the plan places emphasis on the development of National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans, (NBSAPs), the integration of biodiversity concerns into relevant sectors, and active implementation of identified priorities in the NBSAPs as an effective framework for the implementation of the objectives of the Convention. Jamaica’s NBSAP, the National Strategy and Action Plan on Biological Diversity in Jamaica, was developed under the guidance of a multi-sectoral National Biodiversity Steering Committee with funding from the Global Environment Facility (GEF). It was implemented by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and executed by the National Environment Planning Agency (NEPA), and completed in July 2003. Its contents include:

• an assessment of Jamaica’s Biodiversity; • legal and policy framework for the conservation and sustainable use of

biodiversity; • the major gaps and challenges affecting the conservation and sustainable use of

Jamaica’s biodiversity; • a national biodiversity strategy with defined goals; and • an Action Plan in which there is a list of 37 suggested projects which relate to the

goals outlined in the Strategy. Priority issues have already been identified at the national level as the projects concepts have been ranked, 8 as highest priority and 10 as priority.


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Implementation of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action In March 2003, the first of the highest priority project concepts was partially implemented, that is, the establishment of a National Biodiversity Secretariat, “as a supporting mechanism to implement and Monitor the NBSAP”. This was established at NEPA, within its Biodiversity Branch and funded by the NRCA. However, while the project concept called for a supporting mechanism for the duration of 3 years and a staff complement of 5, due to limited availability of funds, the Secretariat was established for a period of one year initially (which was later extended by the NRCA Board for an additional 6 months), and the staff complement was 2. During its period of existence, the Secretariat staff developed 12 project proposals from 7 of the of the project concepts of the action plan. Three are ranked priority, 4 highest priority and 2 other. (Some of the projects concepts were broken down into smaller projects). These proposals are in varying stages of preparation and some have already been submitted to various funding agencies and are awaiting responses. Part funding has been obtained for one project: the Expansion of the Clearing House Mechanism the focal point of which is the Natural History Department of the Institute of Jamaica (NHD/IOJ). Also established, in keeping with project concept 1, was a Biodiversity Committee, a committee of the NRCA. The terms of reference (TORs) include inter alia: the monitoring of the implementation of the NBSAP in Jamaica and to evaluate and advise on the NBSAP. The output of the Secretariat shows limited success in the implementation of the Action Plan. It is difficult to determine the reason(s) for the perceived low success rate of the Secretariat as there may be number factors involved which include:

• too early to assess the performance of the Secretariat as funding of projects can take 1-2 years and sometimes 3 years ; and

• inadequate staffing of the Secretariat - (the full staff complement was not in place).

If the Secretariat is to be re-established, these factors would have to be examined and addressed. A review of a table prepared by the Secretariat on the status of the major gaps and challenges affecting the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity as identified in the NBSAP, gives an alternate picture of its implementation. Of the 86 gaps and challenges identified, no action has been taken in 20 areas, in 14 areas no information was available and in many areas issues were only partially addressed. Many of these projects/activities can be viewed only as interventions as they do not address some of the challenges/gaps at the systemic level and others are pilot projects in selected parts of the island. In the area of national legislation a number of constraints have been identified. Most, if not all of these are expected to be addressed in the proposed NEPA Act which is still being developed. However, Regulations will have to be developed to implement the Act in these areas.


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There have been a number of biodiversity related initiatives which have contributed in some measure towards implementation of the Convention in areas such as: Public Education and Awareness (Article 13), and Impact Assessment and Minimizing adverse impacts (Article 14). These include the Jamaica Coastal Water Quality Improvement Project (CWIP), Jamaica Ridge to Reef Watershed (R2RW) Project 2000-2005 the Environmental Action (ENACT) Programme. A more recent initiative which is intended to support a number of protected-areas-related projects identified in the NBSAP, is the National Implementation Support Partnership (NISP), a collaborative Partnership agreement with the Government of Jamaica, and the Nature Conservancy, the Jamaica Conservation Development Trust and Heritage Design, (an enterprise unit of the USDA). Capacity Constraints An assessment of the implementing Agency (NEPA) and partner institutions including the National Focal Point2 showed that there was widespread awareness of the CBD and the NBSAP within the implementing agency and its partners. There is also a fair amount of institutionalisation of the CBD within these agencies; however, there was clear need in all agencies for human and financial resources to adequately implement the Convention. Another concern cited by the national focal point is the perception that biodiversity issues per se, are not given high national priority, as the link with poverty reduction or development is not readily appreciated or understood at the national level. In reviewing the implementation of the NBSAP capacity issues included:

• lack of human and financial resources • insufficient biological information on flora and fauna • insufficient coordination among and within the relevant agencies • lack of appropriate skills in project writing; • insufficient cooperation from partners in developing the projects; and • lack of or insufficient skills in financial resource identification and negotiation.

4.1.1.1 The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety The Conference of the Parties to the Convent ion adopted a supplementary agreement to the Convention known as the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety in 2000, which seeks to protect biological diversity from the potential risks posed by living modified organisms (LMOs) resulting from modern biotechnology. The Protocol entered into force in September 2003.

2 This was done by way of questionnaires and interviews.


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National Implementation Although not a Party to the Protocol, Jamaica has signed it, indicating its commitment to the objectives of the Protocol. It has conducted a number of activities which will assist it in its preparations to ratify the Protocol. These include:

• establishment of a National Biosafety Committee; • review by the Attorney General’s Department of the legal requirements to

implement the Protocol; • implementation of a Public Education Programme on Biosafety; • designation of a national Focal Point on Biosafety; • designation of a National Focal Point for the Biosafety Clearing House (BCH); • participation in the pilot phase of the BCH; and • development of National Biosafety Frameworks, (a UNEP/GEF/GOJ Project).

Capacity Constraints As with most Small Island Developing states (SIDs), there are many capacity constraints, particularly at the institutional and individual levels. While efforts are being made to address the issues of policy and legislation, including institutional arrangements, there needs to be capacity building at the institutional and individual level, particularly in the areas of risk assessment and risk management of LMOs.

Focus Group Discussions & National Workshop Two Focus Group discussions were held along with a National Workshop to widen the participation in the assessment process. The main outcomes were:

• the NBSAP was perceived as the primary instrument to guide Jamaica’s implementation of the CBD;

• there was a need for an implementation mechanism for the NBSAP and this should be in the form of a Secretariat as previously described in the Action Plan of the NBSAP and as was previously the case;

• the need to seek external sources of funding to implement the Action Plan; and • the incorporation of the relevant projects/project concepts as identified in the

NBSAP into the Corporate Plans of the lead and partner agencies. Also, a number of steps were identified in the National Workshop to effectively implement the NBSAP. These include:

• identify and engage a Lead Agency (MLE); • establish NBSAP as a policy priority; • ‘projectise’ NBSAP with a view to it becoming a mainstream programme within

NEPA’s (the implementing agency) corporate and operational plans; and • develop a monitoring mechanism for the three conventions (MLE).


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It is clear for the assessment that while there is broad based knowledge of the Convention and an appreciation of its importance, Jamaica does not have the financial resources to adequately implement the Convention. A course of action to compensate for the lack of financial resources would be to aggressively seek funding to implement the Action Plan. This would suggest the need for a coordinating mechanism with a focus on the NBSAP, working with the various partner agencies, institutions and non government organisations.

4.1.2 United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification The purpose of the Land Degradation Thematic Assessment was to analyse the nation’s capacity needs, priorities and constraints with respect to Jamaica’s efforts to meet its global environmental objectives with particular reference to the obligations of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).

The National Capacity Self-Assessment was conducted at three levels:

§ Individual

§ Institutional

§ Systemic

The Thematic assessment was conducted within the context of the commonly accepted definition of capacity building as the actions needed to enhance the ability of individuals, institutions and systems to make and implement decisions and perform functions in an effective, efficient and sustainable manner.

The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) was adopted in Paris on June 17 1994 and entered into force on December 26, 1996 ninety days after the fiftieth ratification was received. Jamaica became a Party of the UNCCD on March 10 1998 after its accession on November 22 1997. It is the only internationally recognized legally binding instrument that addresses the problem of land degradation in dryland rural areas. The UNCCD places human beings at the center of its effort to combat desertification and mitigate the effects of drought.

In May 2003 the council of the Global Environment Fund (GEF) introduced Operational Programme n.15 (OP15) as a specific framework for intervention on Sustainable Land Management (SLM). The main objective of OP15 is “to mitigate the causes and negative impacts of land degradation on the structure and functional integrity of ecosystems through sustainable land management practices as a contribution to improving people’s livelihoods and economic well-being.”

The Ministry of Land and Environment (MLE) is now the Focal Point Ministry with the transfer of both the subject and the National Focal Point (NFP) from the Ministry of Water and Housing (MWH) in 2003. The UNCCD Working Committee, established in 2000, is currently inactive but there is a proposal to reactivate it.


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Little progress has been made with respect to Jamaica meeting its obligations as a Party of the UNCCD but at the end of 2004 the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Land and Environment approved the proposal for the recruitment of a consultant who will work with the NFP to have a draft National Action Programme (NAP) prepared for submission to Cabinet by May 2005.

Capacity Constraints

The major issues and capacity constraints identified are as follows:

1. Need for proactive Working Committee or Secretariat with responsibility for the development of the National Action Programme and a Drought Management Policy and Plan.

2. The absence of a clear system of accountability within the system of Government with respect to the country meeting its obligations as a Party of the Convention

3. The low level of public awareness and knowledge about the UNCCD generally but specifically in key Implementing Agencies and Government Ministries

4. The enabling environment, with respect to appropriate policies, laws and programmes, exists for the implementation of the UNCCD and should enhance the development of the NAP and the Drought Management Policy and Plan.

4.1.3 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Jamaica is a Party to the UN Conventions on Climate Change, Combating Desertification, and on Biological Diversity. In some cases, the progress in implementing these conventions has not been optimal. The purpose of the National Capacity Self-Assessment Project (NCSA) is to provide Jamaica the opportunity to conduct a thorough self-assessment and analysis of national capacity needs, priorities and constraints with respect to its efforts at meeting global environmental management objectives. It will facilitate stakeholder consultation in a process of stocktaking, sequencing, identifying and prioritizing capacity needs.

The National Capacity Self-Assessment within the thematic area of Climate Change reviewed Jamaica’s implementation of the UNFCCC with a view to identifying priority areas for action to facilitate better implementation. The objectives of the thematic profile were to identify:

• priority issues; • capacity constraints for these issues at various levels (systemic, institutional and

individual); and • opportunities for capacity building to address the identified constraints.

Jamaica became a Party to the UNFCCC in January of 1995. In conducting the assessment to evaluate the country’s capacity to effectively implement the UNFCCC and


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identify the capacity constraints, the consultant used questionnaires, interviews with the relevant stakeholders, obtained information provided on several websites, reviewed several publications and compact disks including the first national communication of Jamaica and as well as personal knowledge (having actively participated in the process for five years). Since becoming a Party to the UNFCCC, Jamaica has implemented climate change activities at the regional and national levels. These are:

• participated in the Caribbean Planning for Adaptation to Climate Change (CPACC), regional project;

• submitted first national communication; • participated in the Adapting to Climate Change in the Caribbean (ACCC) regional

project; • participate in the Mainstreaming Adaptation to Climate Change regional project;

and • executing Climate Change Enabling activities expedited funding in Priory Areas

project. Additionally, in August 2004 through the expedited financing for capacity building interim funds of US $100,000 were obtained for maintaining and enhancing the capacity to prepare future National Communications. The project is being implemented by the Meteorological Service over twelve months and the main activities are:

• Identification and submission of technology needs; • Capacity building to assess technology needs, modalities to acquire and

absorb them, design, evaluate and host projects; • Capacity building for participation in systematic observation networks; and • Preparation of programs to address climate change.

However, despite some attempts Jamaica has since it signed the Convention thirteen years ago not achieved as much as could have been reasonably expected on the given time frame. The main reason for this may be the lack of sustained focus on climate change activities perhaps due in part to the absence of the Climate Change Committee to guide and focus the country’s programmes. It must also be noted that the country has not fully articulated its climate change programme and there re is not significant budgetary support for climate change programmes in Jamaica. This absence of clarity has perhaps resulted in missed opportunities to access funds to assist the country in its programmes. While admittedly there is significant competition for climate change funding- the funds that the country has received to date suggest that we have not fully exploited these funding mechanisms.

Findings The following are the findings of this assessment:


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• the Meteorological Service has never operated as the institution with sufficient authority with respect to the implementation of the convention. This function has been shared at various times between the GEF Focal Point, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade and whoever is the parent Ministry of the Meteorological Service (MS);

• there is a strong consensus for the development of a national climate model. This would be used for impact model studies whose outputs are needed for national planning;

• a national Climate Change Committee would be able to provide answers to these questions.

• activities are undertaken in several agencies without any synergy or coordination;

• institutions are unaware of climate change concerns and the fact that there is a role for them in the implementation of the Convention;

• some of the human resources that is require is present in the institutions, some skills are lacking. The problem is that these resources are not tailored to fit the needs for implementation of obligations. A quantum leap is required to transform these institutions to achieve the dual purposes of meeting their original requirements and the new ones that the UNFCCC brings. This will require both training and financial incentives as job descriptions are transformed; and

• a needs assessment of the human resources needs of each institution is required. Such an assessment is beyond the scope of this study.

In addition to these major findings on a number of bottle necks which have hindered Jamaica’s Climate Change Programme. They are:

• no climate change secretariat established; • no functioning National Climate Change committee; • relocation of Meteorological Service from Ministry to Ministry; • reduced capacity in the Meteorological Service from time to time due to extended

periods of training and no additional personnel enlisted in temporary capacity to alleviate the loss; and

• the need for a mass based public awareness campaign. No public awareness/education program has been developed to address climate change. Some initiatives such as brochures produced by the Meteorological Service have been attempted. These are in short supply due to unavailability of funds to produce in meaningful quantities.

Capacity Constraints

The issues presented for priority attention are the outcomes of several consultations with some of the relevant stakeholders. Constraints at the individual level were: inadequate training particularly in the areas of vulnerability assessments, and adaptation measures. At the institutional level capacity constraints were:


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• inadequate staff complement;

• lack of equipment;

• weak organisational structure; and

• insufficient funding.

At the systemic level the constraints were:

• low priority issue and unclear policy guidance; and

• insufficient funding.

4.2 Cross cutting Issues

4.2.1 Public Awareness Education and Training

The study assessed Jamaica’s capacity to meet its obligations under the Convention on Biological Diversity and its Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety, the UNFCCC and the UNCCD. Public awareness, education and training have been identified as cross-cutting issues for all three Conventions.

The methodology used by the Consultants was a combination of:

• review of documents on the Conventions, environmental education in Jamaica, and successful methodologies used in other countries;

• consultation with persons involved in environmental education and projects with an environmental education component through interviews and questionnaires; and

• focus group discussions with persons who had been the beneficiary of environmental educational programmes and projects.

All three Conventions contain articles relating to obligations to carry out public awareness and education programmes and to implement training programmes where necessary. It is vital that personnel at the policy and administrative levels of agencies responsible for or supporting implementation of the Conventions are fully informed so that they can make informed decisions, and that the public also is aware of the role that they have to play. It is also important to ensure that the skills necessary for implementation exist in the relevant organizations.

In the thematic assessment reports which formed the platform for the cross-cutting review public awareness is cited as a key issue for implementation of Jamaica’s obligations under the Conventions, and some initiatives have been taken in this regard. The efforts have, however, been sporadic and uncoordinated, and there is much more work to be done. Training needs have been identified for the CBD, the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety and the UNFCC.


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Areas of need for public awareness and training have also been identified in the Policy and Legal Cross-Cutting Report, mainly in the areas of public empowerment for action through information and education, and continued sensitization of those involved in the enforcement, legal and judiciary process.

Environmental education has been taking place as a result of a number of initiatives throughout the island.

At the community level, NGOs and NEPA projects such as the Ridge to Reef Watershed and Coastal Water Improvement projects have impacted specific communities with educational programmes and improved environmental practices, but there is need for replication of these initiatives in more communities to increase the impact on the environment.

In the formal education system, environmental education for sustainable development has been infused into the curriculum from early childhood to grade nine, with complementary infusion into the curricula of teacher training colleges at the early childhood and secondary levels. Some support materials have been produced and some teachers have been trained, with pilot projects taking place in six primary schools and two teacher training colleges. The need is for the development and distribution of learning materials and system-wide teacher training in environmental education. The Schools Environment Programme has brought practical, hands-on environmental education to 350 schools, but the reach of the project has been limited, and the programme is in jeopardy due to imminent withdrawal of funding.

Through the ENACT supported Greening of Government programme and the introduction of Environmental Management Systems to Private Sector organizations, many employees have been exposed to environmental training which they have taken back to their organizations. The integration of the Holistic Governance programme into the offering of the Management Institute for National Development offers an opportunity for reaching government officials and private sector decision-makers with messages about the need to change how we make decisions that affect the environment and about the Conventions.

Many Government departments have environmental education programmes to support their portfolios, for example The Forestry Department and Fisheries to name a few. These could be better coordinated and synergies used to make more impact.

Focus group discussions were conducted with persons from across the island who had been involved in public education projects at the local or national level. Participants identified programmes related to the environment at community, parish and national levels.

In the main, government is seen as a facilitator for all projects and programmes both locally and nationally. Citizens should also play their part by taking responsibility for their own surroundings, and teaching others. NGOs are seen as watchdogs for the environment with a role to play in education of the community. In general, the Private Sector is contributing but could do more in the areas of funding, sponsorship and incentives.


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Public Education and training has been identified in all the thematic assessments as a priority issue. However the execution of public education programmes to support the implementation of the Convention has failed to recognize the synergies which exist and had been stopped by lack of funding and a coordinated integrated approach to implementation.

Capacity issues were identified at the individual institutional and systemic levels. These constraints are summarized below.

From document reviews, interviews, focus groups and questionnaires completed, the following capacity constraints, gaps and weaknesses have been identified.

Individual:

§ media and communications practitioners need to be engaged in the process and given environmental exposure;

§ environmental experts need communications/media training to help them to make better use of media and communication techniques in getting their message across;

§ ignorance of environmental issues;

§ entrenched cultural practices and behaviour inhibit change; and

§ there is attitudinal resistance to change.

Institutional:

§ need for trainers for community learning;

§ teachers in the school system need more environmental training; and

§ projects and incentive schemes are needed for more communities to engage in environmental activities.

Systemic:

§ need for clear policy initiatives for environmental education;

§ Learning Resources – more to be produced along with a system for accessing and sharing information;

§ poor coordination and sharing of resources between government agencies with similar objectives in environmental education;

§ need for sustainable long term funding for environmental education – short programmes do not produce the behaviour change which is necessary to achieve impacts in environmental management at the community level; and

§ local good practice projects are not being given national attention and are therefore not being replicated nationally – there is a focus on negative news which affects the national psyche.


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4.2.2 Policy and Legal The main objectives of the policy and legal cross cutting assessment were to:

• provide an outline of the existing capacity gaps in the legislative, non-regulatory and policy framework which relate to the implementation of Jamaica’s responsibilities under the three Rio Conventions (United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, the Convention on Biological Diversity and the United Nations Convention on Climate Change);

• highlight the opportunities that obtain for fulfilling these obligations; and • identify actual and proposed programmes and project ideas which will facilitate

this process. • An in-depth analysis of relevant national policies, action plans and legislation was

the main mechanism used to aid the development of this report. The work/output also benefited from direct consultations and meetings with other consultants, the representatives of various government agencies and stakeholders.

Policy considerations The existing Policy framework in Jamaica when examined in light of the current obligations under the three UN Conventions was deemed in some respects sufficient to allow for the fulfillment of these responsibilities though in others it was found to be extremely lacking. This divergence in the quality and relevance of the various policy documents that were reviewed resulted in the development of a priority needs matrix which sought to identify the gaps that currently obtain whilst simultaneously placing these in order of significance to the country. These gaps are as follows:

• lack of sufficiently qualified and dedicated human resources to craft complete and implementable Policy documents.

• weak policy formulation framework, from concept through to development and implementation.

• inadequate access to information by the agencies which could assist in meeting the targets established under the three Conventions pertaining to their potential role in the implementation process.

• insufficient formulation of enabling local legislation • financing shortfall for implementation of obligations and lack of quantifiable and

/ or reliable information relating to the costs associated with effective implementation.

Legislative Considerations The legislative framework was found generally to be facilitative of implementation of the Conventions’ provisions.


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Streamlining of areas of overlap among legislative provisions and jurisdiction among agencies are already being pursued in respect of the new Environment and Planning legislation, a new legal framework for protected areas and pending new water services legislation.

A major gap is the need to update the applicable penalties as in a number of instances, the penalties are so low that it would be virtually tantamount to wasting judicial time, to institute a prosecution. In addition a number of general problems as regards environmental legislation development and enforcement also need to be addressed and provide opportunities for project formulation and pursuit.

Otherwise, there are a number of areas of constraint, which have been indicated in respect of particula r pieces of legislation and which need to be addressed. These areas, particularly those relating to:

• access to genetic resources;

• intellectual property protection; and

• land ownership by the Maroons.

• training of personnel from agencies which currently have a stake in the protection and conservation of the environment in the art of developing project proposals and identifying sources of funding for these.

4.2.3 Institutional and Funding The National Capacity Self-Assessment was conducted at three levels within the context of the commonly accepted definition of capacity building as ‘the actions needed to enhance the ability of individuals, institutions and systems to make and implement decisions and perform functions in an effective, efficient and sustainable manner’. The three levels are further explained below. § Individual capacity building refers to the process of changing attitudes and

behaviours, usually through training activities which disseminate knowledge and develop skills.

§ Institutional capacity building aims at the development of the institution as a total system and focuses on the overall performance of the organization, its functional capabilities as well as its ability to adapt to change.

§ Systemic capacity building is concerned with the creation of ‘enabling environments’ i.e. the overall policy, economic, regulatory and accountability framework within which the individuals and institutions operate.

This report focused on analysing the capacity needs and constraints with respect to the institutional and funding concerns across the Rio Conventions. The findings of the report were built on the results from the three thematic assessments3 and are aimed at further evaluating the issues which were identified as priority areas of action in these reports. 3 Final Report Thematic Assessment Convention on Biological Diversity 3 Final Report Thematic Assessment United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change


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5. PRIORITY AREAS FOR ACTION

The NCSA process focused on priority issues, which were major barriers to effective implementation of the conventions. The consultants examined all the relevant issues across all the conventions and through a consultative and participatory process identified the priority areas for action. These are presented below.

5.1 Convention on Biological Diversity

While there is widespread knowledge of CBD and NBSAP and implementing the NBSAP is considered a priority, a number of obstacles to implementation were identified and in some cases ranked. Obstacles most frequently cited and with the highest ranking were:

• lack of human and financial resources; • dissemination of information at the national level not efficient; • loss of biodiversity and the corresponding goods and services it provides not

properly understood and documented; • existing scientific and traditional knowledge not fully utilized; and • lack of public education and awareness at all levels.

The main outcomes of the focus Group discussions and the National Workshop were:

• the NBSAP was perceived as the primary instrument to guide Jamaica’s implementation of the CBD;

• there was a need for an implementation mechanism for the NBSAP and this should be in the form of a Secretariat as previously described in the Action Plan of the NBSAP and as was previously the case;

• the need to seek external sources of funding to implement the Action Plan; and • the incorporation of the relevant projects/project concepts as identified in the

NBSAP into the Corporate Plans of the lead and partner agencies. Following on the National Workshop, a number of meetings were held with personnel from the executing agency NEPA, and the MLE. It was agreed that in keeping with the proposal from the workshop that the NBSAP would be the primary instrument to guide the implementation of the CBD, the following projects concepts, taken in the main from the NBSAP, should receive immediate attention:

1. Preparation for the Declaration of the Lower Black River Morass under the NRCA Act (1991) with particular Reference to management of the Upper Morass;

2. National Strategy for Alien Invasive Species; 3. Coral Reef Rehabilitation; and

3 Final Report Thematic Assessment United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification


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4. Institutional Strengthening NEPA and other implementing organisations. Elements include:

a. strengthening of legislative framework (alien species, access to genetic resources, intellectual property rights & land ownership in protected areas),

b. expansion of endemic and endangered flora and fauna database with linkages to national CHM; and

c. designing & implementing a comprehensive public education programme – targeting key institutions e.g. judiciary, customs, police and local government.

Additional information on these can be found in the National Action Plan4

5.1.1 The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety Adopted at the first Meeting of the Parties (COP-MOP) was an “Action Plan for Building Capacities for the Effective Implementation of the Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety”. Key elements requiring concrete action for effective implementation have been identified and include:

1. Institutional capacity-building: a. Legislative and regulatory framework; b. Administrative framework; c. Technical, scientific and telecommunications infrastructures; d. Funding and resource management; and e. Mechanisms for follow-up, monitoring and assessment.

2. Human-resources development and training. 3. Risk assessment, Risk management and other scientific and technical expertise. 4. Awareness, participation and education at all levels. 5. Information exchange and data management including full participation in the

Biosafety Clearing-House. 6. Identification of living modified organisms.

While some progress has been made by Jamaica in addressing some of these issues much still needs to be done. In particular, there needs to be follow-up action to the Frameworks Project as the outputs (a draft Biosafety Policy, proposed administrative arrangements for implementation, and draft Drafting Instructions for a Biosafety Act) need to be finalized. In addition to the above actions there needs to be some capacity building in the area of risk assessment and risk management. This is important if Jamaica is to have the capability to:

• Identity the risks to the environment and human health associated with LMOs entering the country; and

• Manage these risks should the need arise.

4 National Action Plan, National Capacity Self Assessment September 2005.


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5.2 United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification Areas for priority action identified in the Focus Groups and the National Workshop were:

• Develop a National Action Plan; • constitute a National Coordinating Committee; and • develop a project on Land Degradation. (A project proposal, (PDF A), was

prepared and submitted through UNDP to the GEF for the development of a medium sized project. It has been approved).

5.3 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Priory areas for action are:

• completion of Phase II of the enabling activity project. Preparation of the second National Communication will would include a National Action Plan;

• establishment of a National Climate Change Committee; • Public Awareness & Public Education; • assessment of Vulnerability of Coastal Zone; • formulation of Adaptation Measures; • assessment of vulnerability of Water Resources; and • assessment of vulnerability of agricultural sector.

A number of project concepts identified in the Focus Groups and the National Workshop to help address the capacity constraints and put the country on a firmer footing with respect to responding to national priorities with respect to climate change and simultaneously meeting its international environmental obligations. Top priority concepts are:

1. the development of a national action plans for mitigation and adaptation; and 2. the development of regional climate models at the small scale of small islands to

allow for better analysis and understanding of the climatic processes. The CSGM has started to address this issue through the MACC initiative. A Project Concept note has been prepared for the development of an impact model for Jamaica. Additional information on these can be found in the National Action Plan.

5.4 Public Awareness Education and Training Priority areas for action here include: § the need for Institutional Stability and Support for NFPs and implementing

agencies § all relevant government agencies to be aware of Conventions § Conventions to be taken into account when corporate plans are being made by

government agencies. § the general public be made aware of the link between their present and future

well being and environmental issues.


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§ trained personnel to implement the Convention § access to learning materials/information on the Conventions § trained personnel to conduct courses on the Conventions § teachers across the education system to be trained in environmental education

5.5 Institutional and Funding The priority areas for action identified from the thematic assessments are listed below in no particular order of significance. 1. National Action Programmes (NAPs) developed and implemented as a matter of

priority for Climate Change and Land Degradation. 2. Implementation of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) as

Jamaica response to the Convention on Biodiversity (CDB). 3. Effective administrative mechanisms established to oversee the implementation of

NAPs and NBSAP in areas of coordination, reporting, accountability and performance targets.

4. Incorporation of the NAPs and NBSAP into the corporate plans and work programmes of the executing and collaborating organisations.

5. Development of a harmonised policy and legal framework to support the programmes/activities of the Rio Conventions.

6. Implementation of a comprehensive integrated public awareness programme. 7. Effective coordinated fund raising. Of greatest relevance to this report are priority areas 1, 2, 3, 4 and 7 which will be dealt with in this report. Items 5 and 6 are examined in the cross cutting legal and public education reports5. Institutional Issues An evaluation of the underlying issues related to the emergence of the priority areas of action which were identified in the thematic assessments pointed to the need for a more integrated approach to the management of the programmes developed to support the implementation of the Conventions. The weakness and in some cases absence of effective integration mechanisms among and within implementing organizations were regarded as significant capacity constraints which often resulted in bottlenecks in implementation of programmes and a failure to effectively built on the synergies which exist across the Conventions. Additionally, within the context of the management of each Convention the effectiveness, role, and influence of ‘the Convention Committee’ was brought into question. The absence of Climate Change and Land Degradation Committees to guide the country’s programmes was identified as another capacity constraint which in the case of the 5 Jamaica, Policy and Legal Cross Report, September 2005 Jamaica, Cross Cutting Issues of Public Awareness, Education and Training, May 2005


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Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Convention to Combat Desertification (Land Degradation) has resulted in bottlenecks as it relates to the development of NAPs. It was the view of the stakeholders and the finding of the thematic assessments that where such Committees were not in place they should be established as clearly such groups could play a major role in the implementation of the Convention. In the case where a ‘Convention Committee’ existed, that is for the Biodiversity Convention, the issues of the degree of influence and authority of the Committee to effectively monitor the implementation of the NBSAP and to direct and guide inter agency collaboration and coordination were questionable. The essential and critical question then with respect to an effective institutional framework was not the absence of or effectiveness of ‘Convention Committees’( although this has clearly been identified as a capacity issue) but the challenge of making these committees as effective as possible given that their composition which by necessity is multi-sectoral and the operation which by and large is conducted not under any legal mandate or even policy framework but out of a sprit of interagency collaboration. While in essence this is a good thing the issues of the authority, accountability, and performance of the Committees need to be addressed. In light of this evaluation, the absence of effective mechanisms for coordination of the work to support the implementation of the Conventions was thought to be a significant capacity constraint. At the highest level of decision-making the need for national coordination of the activities undertaken for the three Conventions was identified as a matter of the utmost priority. Institutional coordination is required in order to establish priorities and direct action in areas which are cross cutting and where the lines of authority may be blurred. Correction of this capacity gap was considered as a priority areas of action in order to have more effective and efficient management of the work of the Rio Conventions. Additionally, the development of strong institutions requires not only that capacity issues be addressed but also that also the presence of strong and committed accountable leadership at all levels of the institutional framework. Solutions to those issues perhaps strictly lie outside of an assessment of capacity issues but must be borne in mind as the country strives to improve its performance in this area. The following issues must be addressed in order to strengthen the institutional capacity:

• establishment of effective mechanisms for coordination of the work across the Rio Conventions, to provide guidance at the highest decision making level on cross cutting technical issues and major funding efforts;

• establishment of functional and effective Convention Committees; • strengthening of major executing organizations and identification of these

organisations for Climate Change and Land Degradation; and • strengthening of mechanisms for monitoring and reporting as a strategy to

improve accountability.


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Funding Issues The absence of sufficient funding was a recurring finding of all the NCSA reports. The inadequacy of funding was identified as a capacity constraint. By and large this gap is due to a combination of factors which include insufficiency of skills and experience in fundraising as well as the absence of a coordinated approach to seeking funding to support the work across all three Conventions. It must be noted that although all the issues related to Jamaica’s meeting its environmental obligations are not related to the issue of funding, the ability of the country to seriously address the implementation of NBSAP of any NAP which may be developed lies in finding additional funding outside of the current levels of funding provided by the government. The Global Environment Facility (GEF) is the major source of funding for the conventions and while Jamaica has received some support the country has not placed itself in a position to fully take advantages of the opportunities for funding available through the Facility. In June 2005 the GEF Council met to discuss and elaborate on initial proposals for programming directions and tools for GEF-4. The GEF Council wants to ensure that it is responsive to the evolving perspectives of the international community with respect to the global environment and sustainable development. The third Overall Performance Study of the GEF has made some policy recommendations for replenishment of the fund which has been endorsed by the Council. These recommendations need to be considered by Jamaica in light of the findings of NCSA which has identified funding as a major capacity constraint. The following are proposed for the GEF 4 programme: (a) move towards more integrated approaches to the natural resource management challenges that span the global environmental agreements; and (b) enhancing the potential for sustainable project outcomes, pay even greater attention to integration of global environmental challenges into natural sustainable development policies and programmes. Pursuing integration across focal areas will allow the GEF to fulfill its role as catalyst and facilitator of global environmental sustainability and Jamaica must be aware of this policy approach within the GEF and focus its fundraising strategy towards the integration of the cross cutting issues across the Conventions. Funding beyond the contributions from the GOJ is required to address the implementation of programmes which will support Jamaica’s efforts at meeting its environmental obligations with regard to the Rio Conventions. However, to access funding available through the GEF, non-traditional and bilateral sources, there needs to be an integrated strategically coordinated approach guided by the MLE. Additionally,


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The GOJ needs to re-examine its current allocation to the environmental sector. The MLE however, faces capacity constraints at the level of staffing and expertise and the organisation must be strengthened to effective perform that role.


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6. RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 Convention on Biological Diversity The following are the recommendations:

• NBSAP is the country’s primary response to its obligations under UNCBD; • NEPA must be strengthen to more effectively implement the NBSAP; • aggressive funding programme must be launched taking into consideration all

the available sources both internal and external; • the NISP opportunities should be integrated into any projects/programmes

which are developed to implement the NBSAP. Administrative mechanism should be put in place to ensure that there is integration of these efforts and avoidance of duplication;

• the Clearing House Mechanism should be strengthened; • the current legal framework requires strengthening particularly with regard to

access to biological resources and benefit sharing; and • public education efforts must continue and mechanisms found to ensure its

sustainability and coordination and integration with the other Rio Conventions. Special emphasis to be placed on the judiciary, police, local government organizations and communities in protected areas.

6.1.1 Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety The following are the recommendations:

• funds be found to continue work commenced under the UNEP Biosafety Framework Project;

• the country determine the best organization to be DNA and a programme to strengthen the organization be put in place as a matter of priority; and

• the legislative framework be established as a matter of priority.

6.2 United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

The following are the recommendations.

Institutional

1. The development of an appropriate system of accountability for the Convention within the system of government. This Unit would be responsible for ensuring that the country not only meets its obligations as a party of the UNCCD, but benefits fairly from its participation as a Party.

2. The name of a government organization responsible for supporting the Focal Point Institution in driving the implementation of the NAP (once in place).


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3. The expeditious and timely dissemination of relevant information, such as reports of COP and other activities associated with the UNCCD to the key implementation agencies.

4. A comprehensive assessment of the factors that cause drought and the mapping of drought areas as the basis for the expeditious development of and the periodic review of the NAP for the country. This should also facilitate the development of more effective drought monitoring programmes especially in the southern St Elizabeth and Clarendon plains, the areas most vulnerable to drought in Jamaica.

5. The development of methods to measure and collect data related to the water requirements of the different crops, and the water demands at the different stages of crop growth and development.

6. The introduction of and implementation of effective systems for the forecasting of drought and the development of effective early warning and forecasting systems, which will include the development of drought indices.

7. The acquisition of appropriate technology which will allow more effective management and distribut ion of the country’s water resources and adequate financing for existing projects and programmes. This will include the acquisition of equipment to reduce dependence on manual meteorological data collection.

8. Public and private sector investment in water storage systems to increase reliable yield of water.

9. Provision of capital funds to allow the implementation of critical projects and to facilitate needed research whilst at the same time allowing organizations such as the Water Resources Authority and the Meteorological Department to not only attractive suitable qualified professional staff but to effectively use their skills and knowledge.

10. Action to be taken to recover lost capacity such as that identified by SIRI with respective to underutilized pump sources and abandonment of irrigation infrastructure and systems in some sugar cane producing areas.

Public Education 11. The development of an effective and comprehensive public education programme

which targets not only the wider public but which will ensure that personnel in key implementing agencies are informed of the country’s obligations in the UNCCD and the role that they are expected to play in meeting these obligations.

Legal, Regulatory & Policy 12. The legislative and regulatory framework for the successful development of the NAP

and which allows the country to meet its obligations as a Party of the UNCCD exists but there is need for enforcement of existing laws and the development of appropriate legislation to prevent the growing conversion of agricultural lands to residential and other commercial uses.


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13. The development of effective and comprehensive agricultural and land use policies including crop zoning laws and the restriction of the allocation of crop production incentives to farmers producing crops and recommended for zoned areas.

14. Enforcement and strengthening of laws related to illicit mining of sand and the restoration of mined out bauxite lands, activities which can contribute significantly to land degradation as well as the destruction of aquifers.

6.3 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change .Below are recommendations for future implementation efforts. Institutional: § establish a climate change secretariat in the Ministry of Land & Environment or

the Meteorological Service; § strengthen Focal Point Institution; § establish National Climate Change Committee (Chaired by high level person

preferably Minister MLE); § establish Climate Change Unit/Secretariat/Department; § integrate climate change consideration in national development policy; § private sectors, non- government and community-based organizations must be

brought into the process and given meaningful roles to fulfill; § institutions will require additional equipment including high-speed computers and

other specialized technical equipment. An initial needs assessment will be required of all relevant institutions;

§ the legal and policy instruments will require review and amendment by legal persons with some exposure to environmental issues in particular climate change (Attorney General Department); and

§ there will also be a need to identify and examine the possibility of developing indigenous insurance schemes to address specific local needs. Persons in insurance field would need to be exposed to climate change impacts and assessments

Training: § provision of training in the areas of vulnerability and adaptation technologies; § training of persons to use and further improve these vulnerability and adaptation

tools. (UNFCCC Secretariat to advise on training areas); § the training and development of storm surge models and maps (Meteorological

Service, NEPA, UWI, and ODPEM should be responsible agencies); § scientific training institutions (UWI, UTECH) will require additional technical

expertise in climate change and its related fields. This will enable them to provide training as well as research capabilities for Jamaica to tackle a changing climate; and

§ the need to enhance the technical skills required for the building of coastal protection structures to include climate change concerns. (Roselle in St.


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Thomas).This knowledge and training must be dissipated to the widest cross-section of relevant institutions and individuals across the island.

Public Education: Ø Design and implement a public awareness program targeting audiences at several

levels of the society. Target groups should be: • policy makers; • different age groups; • lecturers; • teachers; • Teacher Trainers; • general public; and • groups in vulnerable areas.

Technical Capability: develop national action plans for mitigation and adaptation. (Technical group selected by NCC);

1. establish formal climate research program. (Meteorological Service should lead but must include UWI, UWI cannot access funding from the Convention MS can);

2. establish GHG database, (Energy Division MCS&T); 3. the development of regional climate models at a small scale of small islands to

allow for better analysis and understanding of the climatic processes. The CSGM has started to address this issue through the MACC initiative;

4. the development of a climate change model which will facilitate impact assessment models to examine the issues that the major sectors of agriculture, water resources and the coastal zone will be required to minimize or adapt to. These must include fundamental issues such as food security, the effects of saline intrusion and the social and economic impacts that activities in the coastal zone will undergo in the different climate change scenarios;

5. the development and updating of hazard maps for floods, land-slippages and other hazards, (Meteorological Service, NEPA, UWI and ODPEM should be responsible);

6. review the design criteria and building codes to include climate change concerns, (NEPA, NWA, Parish Councils, Engineering Society, Master Builders Association, MLE); and

7. there is a need for the formal collection and archiving of baseline data to inform the specific studies and analysis that will be required for the vulnerability assessments, (MS, NEPA, WRA, MOA, UWI).

A number of project concepts have been identified to help address the capacity constraints and put the country on a firmer footing with respect to responding to national priorities with respect to climate change and simultaneously meeting its international environmental obligations. The next twelve months of monitoring and implementing the Action Plan which is one of the outcomes of the NCSA will be very


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important with regard to establishing effective mechanisms to address the issues which have been identified in this report.

6.4 Public Awareness Education and Training

Recommendations for strengthening capacity in environmental education are:

§ establish Leadership at the Policy Level;

§ assign a home for the Public Awareness & Education Function; § establishment of a Resource Centre for EE;

§ identify Desirable Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviour (KAB;)

§ develop System of Surveying;

§ develop an Awareness Plan; and

§ develop a Training Plan.

Public Education at all levels and in several sectors is necessary for the successful implementation of the Conventions. Education on the Conventions should not, however, be done in isolation, but in conjunction with a more generalized education programme geared at educating about environmental education for sustainable development.

Several initiatives in the public and NGO sectors which have been undertaken can be built on in the development and implementation of a comprehensive public education programme on the three Conventions. The strengths of previous programmes lie in the development of strategies that have made those impacted by them aware of environmental issues. The weaknesses lie in the fact that such programmes have been scattered in time and space and were not sustained. Another weakness is the lack of scientific data on the impact of these programmes. The lessons learnt from such programmes can be used to inform a more long-term, sustained educational programme based on the objectives of the Conventions on Biodiversity/Biosafety, Climate Change and Desertification.

Organizations with similar educational objectives will be more effective in their mission of environmental education if they seek opportunities for synergy and collaboration and work together in implementing a comprehensive integrated educational programme on the Conventions under the National Environmental Education Action Plan for Sustainable Development.

6.5 Policy and Legal

6.5.1 Legislation A number of general problems as regards environmental legislation development and enforcement need to be addressed. It is recommended that the following be done towards ensuring a more facilitative setting for implementation of the Conventions:


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• educate citizens as to their rights re the environment and explore having private citizens and environmental non-governmental organizations (NGOs) more empowered to bring “public interest” court actions where their interest in the due conservation of the environment is breached and make the requisite legislative changes to address technical legal impediments to bringing such actions;

• carry out a periodic review and updating of penalties for breaches of environmental laws;

• periodically, consult with and sensitize the judiciary as to the full implications and/or gravity of particular environmental breaches;

• have environmental law breaches and their implications feature prominently in the training of members of the police force;

• enhance capacity to deve lop and adhere to appropriate action time tables towards speedy implementation of Regulations needed to give efficacy to enacted primary legislation;

• have legislation indicate timeframe for passage of particular Regulations, after primary legislation comes into force;

• enhance capacity to enact timely legislation necessary to incorporate international treaties to which Jamaica becomes a party;

• empower citizens to take action to have relevant government agencies act without undue delay (having regard to all relevant circumstances);

• explore how best protection is to be provided for the rights of private citizens as regards the environment under the Jamaican Constitution (bearing in mind that discussions appear imminent to advance the proposed new Charter of Rights and Freedoms, to create “the right, compatible with sustainable development, to enjoy a healthy and productive environment”; 6 and

• amend The Criminal Justice (Reform) Act, 1978 (which sets out sentencing options for the courts) or otherwise make provis ion for increasing the sentencing options as regards breaches of environmental law.

Additionally, there are a number of areas of constraint, which have been indicated in respect of particular pieces of legislation and which need to be addressed. These areas, particularly those relating to genetic resources, intellectual property protection and the Maroons may be addressed by appropriate projects. In this regard, the following Acts should be strengthened and legislation developed:

1. The Town and Country Planning Act, 1958 be amended to clearly address marine areas beyond Jamaica’s land area;

2. The Country Fires Act, 1942 be repealed and modern legislation put in place to address the setting of or dealing with fires throughout all of Jamaica with appropriate deterrent sanctions for offenders;

3. comprehensive legislative measures be introduced to specifically address the issue of control of alien species;

4. legislation be enacted to address the preservation and utilization of traditional knowledge;

6 See: Bill – The Charter of Rights (Constitutional Amendment) Act, 1999, Section 13(2)(o).


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5. a clear comprehens ive policy be developed as to how to treat with the Maroons, their lands, knowledge and the utilization of and development of maroon areas; and

6. legislation be put in place to protect genetic resources and to provide for intellectual property protection for breeders of and accessing new plant varieties.

6.5.2 Policy The existing Policy framework in Jamaica when examined in light of the current obligations under the three UN Conventions was deemed in some respects sufficient to allow for the fulfillment of these responsibilities though in others it was found to be extremely lacking. Though there is a plethora of Policy documents in existence which relate to the protection and sustainable use of the environment this has had limited impact on the resources which they were formulated to conserve / manage. Though some are poorly constructed, the majority requires the employment of viable implementation strategies. A thorough assessment of the shortfall needs to be carried out to quantify the impact that non-implementation of these Policies are having on the environment. This it is felt will propel sufficient attention to this matter thereby increasing the ranking of the environment Recommendations in the area of policy are:

• refer specifically to the Conventions and by extension address the Country’s responsibilities for implementation, and outline strategies to achieve this that is what is to be done, by who, with what allocated resources and utilising which methodology; and

• ensure that there are the appropriate linkages between policy and legislation to ensure implementation of the programmes and activities of the Conventions.

6.6 Institutional and Funding Recommendations The major recommendation addresses the need to strengthen the institutional coordination mechanisms which should result in more effective programme implementation in the medium to long term. Effective coordination mechanisms will result in more effective technical programmes and funding raising efforts both of which will contribute significantly to building stronger institutions which are critical to the country successfully and sustainably addressing its environmental obligations with regard to the Rio Conventions. It is recommended that Jamaica establish a ‘Conventions Coordinating Committee’. The proposed coordination structure is shown in the below and is fully described in Chapter 5 of the “Institutional and Funding Report”.


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Proposed Organisational Chart Rio Conventions Coordination Additionally the following actions should be taken:

• strengthening of the Convention administrative capability within each of the main executing organizations;

• selection of an executing organization for Land Degradation; • formation of ‘Convention Committees’ for Land Degradation and Climate

Change; • introduction of stronger mechanisms of accountability, reporting and

performance parameters for the ‘Convention Committees’; and • centralization of cross cutting fund raising efforts with direction through

the ‘Conventions Coordinating Committee’.

6.7 Opportunities for synergistic and cross cutting capacity building

The NCSA process provided an opportunity to discuss and elucidate the linkages among the thematic areas through a greater understanding of the commonalties and overlaps among the conventions and facilitated an integrated approach to their implementation at the local, national and international levels.

A number of opportunities for synergistic and cross cutting capacity building have been identified. These are in the areas of:

• Institutional Strengthening in the area Public Awareness Education and Training;

Coordinating Committee Chairman PS MLE

Land Degradation Committee Chair UNCCD Focal Point

Climate Change Committee Chair UNFCCC Focal Point

Biodiversity Committee Chair CBD Focal Point

Coordinating Committee Secretariat

Technical Secretary Technical Secretary

Technical Secretary


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• Institutional Strengthening and Governance; and

• Institutional Strengthening through Reforestation and Sustainable Land Management in Watersheds.

Further information on these opportunities is to be found in Appendix VI. One of these Institutional Strengthening and Governance, has been developed for submission to UNDP for GEF NCSA Expedited Funding.


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7. MONITORING AND EVALUATION Monitoring and evaluating the implementation of the national Action Plan is an important part of the NCSA project once it has been approved. It will involve the continuous monitoring of progress in implementing activities against the planned schedules for various activities. The initial monitoring program will take place over a period of twelve months and will be undertaken by a Monitoring Committee which includes the National Focal Points for each convention, executing agencies, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade (MFAFT), the Planning Institute of Jamaica, (PIOJ) and MLE among others. It is expected that the National Focal Points will play an important part in the monitoring process. An independent evaluation is expected to be done after the 12 month period, and two critical outputs should be (i) an action plan for the next 12 months and (ii) a report. The Committee is expected to start its work at the end of October 2005, at the end of Phase I. Although the monitoring period for the project has been designated for a period of 12 months, at the end of Phase II of the project, that is, at the end of the 12 month monitoring period, this process needs to become institutionalised, and it is proposed that the Convention Coordinating Committee, chaired by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Land and Environment, (as proposed in the Institutional and Funding cross cutting report) should perform this monitoring role.


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39

APPENDICES


40

APPENDIX I. List of Participants -National Capacity Self Assessment Project Launch

Hon. Dean Peart Ministry of Land and Environment Elecia Myers Environmental Foundation of Jamaica Joy Alexander NEPA Gillian Lindsay- Norton United Nations Development Programme Winsome Townsend NEPA David Barret Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica Richard Thompson Tourism Product Development Company Jose Gerhartz UWICED Sue Ann Chung Cabinet Office Carla Gordon NEPA Genefa Hibbert Ministry of Water and Housing Maurice Swaby ENACT Nilsia Johnson Ministry of Health Karlene Mckenzie Ministry of Local Government Aleatia Kerr Ministry of Local Government Raneque White Ministry of Local Government Elisabeth Emanuel ENACT Marjorie Stair Land Degradation Thematic Consultant Errol Morris NEPA Evan Cauetano InterAmerican Development Bank Yvette Beckford Davis Meteorological Service Anthony Chen University of the West Indies Devon Blake NEST Rachel Allen Urban Development Corporation Agostinho Pinnock NEPA Donna Blake Ministry of Land and Environment Michelle Watts Water Resources Authority Marcia Cleary UWICED Glynnis Ford Ministry of Agriculture Dale Rankine Meteorological Service David Smith UNDP Clifford Mahlung Climate Change Consultant Andrea Donaldson NEPA Patricia Sinclair McCalla NEPA Rainee Oliphant Policy and Legal Consultant Elaine Fisher Natural Resource Management Specialist Ayisha Richards Attorney General’s Department Leonie Barnaby Ministry of Land and Environment Trevor Shaw National Land Agency Joan Jackson Ministry of Commerce Science and Technology Jo Bellamy ENACT Karen McDonald Gayle USAID


41

Philbert Brown Ministry of Land and Environment Luc St. Pierre United Nations Environment Programme Hugh Hyman Policy and Legal Specialist Thomas Burton RADA Amasale Maryan Association of Developmental Agencies Joy Scott Office of the Prime Minister Penelope Budhlall A.V. Plus Ltd Peter Vogel University of the West Indies, Life Science Novlette Douglas ENACT


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APPENDIX II. List of Reports

1. Inception Report

2. Stocktaking Report

3. Biodiversity Thematic Report

4. Climate Change Thematic Report

5. Land Degradation Thematic Report

6. Public Education and Awareness and Training - Cross Cutting Report

7. Policy and Legal - Cross Cutting. Report

8. Institutional and Funding Cross Cutting Report

9. National Action Plan

10. NCSA Report.


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APPENDIX III. Terms of Reference – Project Steering Committee 1. Guide the work of the Project Manager/Lead Consultant throughout the NCSA

Project. 2. Review and approve the work plan developed by the Project Manager/Lead

Consultant. 3. Participate in the selection process and approve the appointment of the National

Consultants. 4. Receive and review bi-monthly project reports from the Project Manager/Lead

Consultant including a financial report. 5. Review, comment on and approve the reports generated from the project as required. 6. Monitor milestones and the timeliness of project deliverables. 7. Provide input for the planning and execution of national workshops. 8. Ensure that extensive consultation with all relevant stakeholders government and non-

government takes place during the development of the NCSA document and the Action Plan.

9. Recommend persons/organisations to be involved in the consultative process. 10. Act as resource persons at national workshops. 11. Provide information to the Minister of Land and Environment on the progress of the

NCSA project. 12. Review in a timely manner and approve the NSCA Report and Action Plan. 13. Support the three Convention Focal Points in the monitoring of the implementation of

the Action Plan.


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APPENDIX IV. National Capacity Self Assessment Project Steering Committee Members Mrs. Winsome Townsend Chairperson Steering Committee Director-Policies, Programmes & Projects Coordination Division National Environment and Planning Agency 10-11 Caledonia Avenue, Kingston 5 Forestry Department Ministry of Agriculture Representative: Mr. Keith Porter 173 Constant Spring Road Kingston 8 Ministry of Land and Environment Representatives: Miss Leonie Barnaby Senior Director, Mrs. Donna Blake, CBD Focal Point Mr. Philbert Brown, UNCCD Focal Point 16A Half Way Tree Road Kingston 5 Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management Representative: Ms. Karema Aikens 12 Camp Road Kingston 4 Planning Institute of Jamaica Representatives: Mr. Hopeton Peterson &Miss Simone Norton 10 -16 Grenada Way Kingston 5 Meteorological Services 65 1/4 Half Way Tree Road Kingston 5 Water Resources Authority Representative: Mrs. Michelle Watts Hope Gardens Kingston 7


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Ministry of Transport and Works Representative: Ms. Dorthea Clarke 1c-1f Pawsey Road, Kingston 5 Ministry of Finance and Planning Representative: Miss Jacqueline Logan 30 National Heroes Circle Kingston 4 Attorney General’s Chambers Representative: Miss Ayisha Richards 2nd Floor – North Tower NCB Towers, 2 Oxford Road, Kingston 5 National Environment and Planning Agency Representative: Miss Yvette Strong 10-11 Caledonia Avenue, Kingston 5 Ministry of Agriculture Representative: Ms. Glynnis Ford 191 Hope Road, Kingston 6 United Nations Development Programme Representative : Dr. David Smith 1 Lady Musgrave Road Kingston 5 Prof. Neville Duncan Sir Arthur Lewis Institute of Social and Economic Studies University of the West Indies, Mona, Kingston 7 Mrs. Susan Outokon Executive Director Jamaica Conservation and Development Trust 29 Dumbarton Avenue, Kingston 10 Mr. Devon Blake National Environmental Societies Trust 173 Constant Spring Road, Kingston 8 Miss Amasale Maryan Executive Director Association of Developmental Agencies 12 Easton Avenue, Kingston 6


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APPENDIX V. List of participants at the various focus groups/workshops

A. National Capacity Self Assessment Project Biodiversity Focus Group Discussion

Sylvia Mitchell Biotechnology Centre, UWI Donna Blake Ministry of Land and Environment Bethune Morgan National Solid Waste Management Agency Keith Porter Forestry Department Florence Young Ministry of Agriculture Sylvia McGill Meteorological Office Yvette Strong NEPA Winsome Townsend NEPA Luc St. Pierre United Nations Environmental Programme Ivan Goodbody University of the West Indies Derrick Gayle Environment Foundation of Jamaica Dayne Buddho Institute of Jamaica Terry Williams The Nature Conservancy Basil Jones Wallenford Coffee Company Hugh Hyman Attorney at Law Patricia Sinclair McCalla NEPA Penelope Budhlall A.V. Plus Ltd Timon Waugh Coffee Board Jacqueline Spence Meteorological Offices Audia Barnett Scientific Research Council Leonie Barnaby Ministry of Land and Environment Marjorie Stair National Capacity Self- Assessment Project Elaine Fisher Natural Resource Management Specialist Denise Forrest Forrest and Associates Keina Montaque National Capacity Self Assessment Project

B. National Capacity Self Assessment Project Climate Change and Land Degradation Focus Group Discussion

Glynnis Ford Ministry of Agriculture Winston Simpson RADA Anthony McKenzie NEPA Tannecia Stephenson University of the West Indies Maurice Harrison National Irrigation Commission Anthony Freckleton St. Elizabeth Environment Protection association Hugh Hyman Policy and Legal Consultant Rainee Oliphant Policy and Legal Consultant Owen Evelyn Forestry Department Michael Taylor University of the West Indies Donald Sergeon National Irrigation Commission Sylvia McGill Meteorological Service


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David Barrett Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica Natalie Morgan-Ferguson Water Resources Authority Winsome Townsend NEPA Elaine Fisher Natural Resource Management Specialist Denise Forrest Forrest and Associates Clifford Mahlung Climate Change Consultant Marjorie Stair Land Degradation Consultant Keina Montaque National Capacity Self Assessment Project

C. National Capacity Self Assessment Project Public Education and Awareness Focus Group Discussion

Christine Sutherland NEPA Maurice Harrison National Irrigation Commission Llwelyn Meggs Institute of Jamaica Gina Sanguinetti NEPA Sherrone Lobban MIND Claudene Clarke Ministry of Local Government Dorothea Clarke Ministry of Transport and Works Florence Young Ministry of Agriculture Nadene Newsome Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency

Management Winsome Russell University of Technology Onyije Chigozili NEPA Grace Turner NEPA Jacqueline Spence Meteorological Office Maxine Hinds Forestry Department Bethune Morgan National Solid Waste Management Agency Yvette Strong NEPA Thera Edwards Coastal Water Quality Improvement Project Leonie Barnaby Ministry of Land and Environment Janice Holung UNESCO Winsome Townsend NEPA Mr. Peter Wilson- Kelly NEPA Hopeton Peterson Planning Institute of Jamaica Simone Norton Planning Institute of Jamaica Bryan Bambury Meteorological Service Philbert Brown Ministry of Land and Environment Winston Forrest Ministry of Education and Culture Dane Buddho Institute of Jamaica Sonja Harris Ridge to Reef Project Kareen Binns Irwin High School Elaine Fisher Natural Resource Management Specialist Denise Forrest Forrest and Associates Keina Montaque National Capacity Self Assessment Project


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D. National Capacity Self Assessment Project Policy and Legal Cross Cutting Issues

Focus Group Discussion

Trudi Johnson Scientific Research Council Sylvia Mitchell Biotechnology Centre, UWI Donna Blake Ministry of Land and Environment Bethune Morgan National Solid Waste Management Agency Michelle Watts Water Resources Authority Ayisha Richards Attorney General’s Department David Smith United Nations Development Programme Conroy Watson Ministry of Commerce Science and Technology Brian Bambury Meteorological Office Glynnis Ford Rural and Physical Planning Division Kareen Binns Irwin High School Andrea Donaldson NEPA Carla Gordon NEPA Luc St. Pierre United Nations Environmental Programme Andrea Dubidad Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Maurice Harrison National Irrigation Commission Dorothea Clarke Ministry of Transport and Works Keith Porter Forestry Department Florence Young Ministry of Agriculture Donovan Walker RADA Anastasia Calnick Ministry of Land and Environment Winsome Townsend NEPA Elaine Fisher Natural Resource Management Specialist Denise Forrest Forrest and Associates Keina Montaque National Capacity Self Assessment Project

E. National Capacity Self Assessment Project Second National Workshop

Andrea Donaldson NEPA Curline Beckford CIDA Maurice Harrison National Irrigation Commission Dayne Buddoo Institute of Jamaica Hugh Hyman Policy and Legal Consultant Karyll Johnston USAID Ivan Goodbody University of the West Indies Marjorie Stair Land Degradation Thematic Consultant Tannecia Stephenson University of the West Indies Marcus Gordon NEPA Ricardo Clarke Meteorological Service Bryan Bambury Meteorological Service


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Penelope Budhlall Public Education and Awareness Specialist Glynnis Ford Ministry of Agriculture Keith Porter Forestry Department Andrea Jones NEPA David Martin Wallenford Coffee Company Monifa Blake Ministry of Transport and Works Florence Young Ministry of Agriculture Michelle Curlingford National Water Commission Ayisha Richards Attorney Generals Department Trevor Shaw National Land Agency Natalie Morgan- Ferguson Water Resources Authority Andrea Dubidad Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Michael Taylor University of the West Indies Jacqueline Logan Ministry of Finance and Planning Dwight Edghill Bureau of Standards Rohan Richards Ministry of Land and Environment Gervaise McLeod NEPA Kathlene Arnold Ministry of Justice Devon Blake NEST Leonard Francis NEPA Elaine Fisher Natural Resource Management Specialist Denise Forrest Forrest and Associates Keina Montaque National Capacity Self Assessment Project

F. National Capacity Self Assessment Project

Final National Workshop

Winsome Townsend NEPA Dr. Sylvia Mitchell Biotechnology Centre UWI Ms Maxine Brown Natural Irrigation Commission Mr. Trevor Shaw National Land Agency Dr. Cheryl Gopaul CIDA Miss Glynnis Ford Rural Planning Division Miss Andrea Dubidad Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Mr. Luc St. Pierre United Nations Environment Programme Mrs. Tracy Commock Institute of Jamaica Mrs Susan Otuokon Jamaica Conservation Development Trust Mr. Dayne Buddo Institute of Jamaica Ms. Karema Aikens Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency

Management Mr. Andre Kong Fisheries Division Ms. Dorothea Clarke Ministry of Transport and Works Dr. Audia Barnett Scientific Research Council Mr. Dale Rankine Climate Change Consultant Mrs. Marjorie Stair Land Degradation Consultant


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Ms. Penelope Budhlall Public Education and Awareness consultant Ms. Rainee Oliphant Policy and Legal Specialist Mr. Terry Williams The Nature Conservancy Mr. Anthony Freckleton St. Elizabeth Environment Protection Association Mr. Hugh Hyman Policy and Legal Specialist Mr. Clifford Mahlung Meteorological Services Mrs. Sylvia Mitchell Meteorological Services Mr. Brian Bambury Meteorological Services Ms. Bethune Morgan National Solid Waste Management Authority Elaine Fisher Natural Resource Management Specialist Denise Forrest Forrest and Associates Keina Montaque National Capacity Self Assessment Project


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APPENDIX VI. Opportunities for synergistic capacity building

1. Institutional Strengthening in the Area Public Awareness Education and Training

Jamaica’s National Capacity Self Assessment identified the following as key areas of capacity constraints across all three Conventions:

• lack of adequate funding for education and awareness;

• lack of understanding by decision makers of the incorporation of sound environmental practices into the economic and development decision-making process;

• lack of coordination, (which does not make the best use of the relatively limited available resources);

• the need for a central collection of resource materials, (print and electronic) for environmental education materials which is easily accessible, e.g. through the CHM;

§ the need for creative, environmentally sound awareness programmes across the three conventions. These programmes need to move beyond awareness to behavioural change;

§ need for technical skills in some areas, e.g. economic evaluation of biological resources, hydro-geologists, climatologists and meteorologists;

§ need for training of teacher educators in the area of environment and sustainable use of natural resources; and

§ insufficient resource materials to implement the teaching of environmental education at the primary school.

The project will seek to develop a clear policy on environmental education, strengthen the capacity of key agencies and institutions to deliver environmental programmes, develop resource materials, establish central resource center, sensitize and provide relevant information for decision-makers, and support the training in areas of scarce technical skills.

2. Institutional Strengthening and Governance

Jamaica’s National Capacity Self Assessment identified the issue of governance as a key area to be addressed in strengthening the institutional framework for effective implementation of the three Conventions. Some important findings were:


• the need for economic valuation of environmental resources as a tool for decision making;

• problems in the area of environmental legislation development and enforcement (including the area of environmental impact assessment);


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• lack of coordinated policy development and weak implementation; and • the need for a thorough assessment of the impact of the implementation and non-

implementation of the various environmental policies the environment.

The Environmental Impact Assessment process is one of the cross-cutting tools under the CBD and the UNCCD. Effective use of this tool is a strong indicator of good governance in the area of environmental protection and sustainable use of natural resources. Additionally, economic evaluation is a valuable tool for decision makers. Jamaica’s natural forests are an extremely valuable resource and no economic evaluations of this resource have been done. The will project will use these two tools in the strengthening of the framework for good governance. This will be done through a pilot project, using a particular geographic area such as the Cockpit country (protected area slated for bauxite mining) whereby the economic valuation tool will be used to provide information to the decision makers and a conceptual EIA will be conducted, including a social impact assessment. The project will involve the various stakeholders, the development of procedures, training and lessons learnt which will be used as the basis of mainstreaming the findings at the end of the pilot. A project proposal, for a PDF-A, has been developed for submission through UNDP to the GEF for the development of a GEF medium sized project.7

3. Institutional Strengthening Through Reforestation and Sustainable Land Management in Watersheds.

Jamaica’s NCSA found that while the country has the ability to identify many of its problems related to the loss and degradation of the country’s biodiversity, it weakness lies in implementing sustainable programmes to address these problems. While this weakness is in part due to the lack of financial resources there is also the need to strengthen the capacity of the relevant technical support agencies and communities to implement these programmes.

Conservation of forests and sustainable use of the forest biological resources are essential to achieving the objectives of the CBD. Jamaica was once covered with forests, but they are now restricted to areas least suitable for agriculture and human settlements, such as at high altitudes on steep rocky slopes and in rugged limestone areas. The major causes of deforestation are agricultural expansion from both large and small scale farming operations and unsustainable harvesting of trees for charcoal production. The loss of forest cover through these unsustainable practices has resulted in land degradation. There are also implications for climate change.

7 “Strengthening and Developing of Environmental Management Tools for Effective Governance and to Address Institutional Strengthening in Jamaica in Response to Priority Areas of Action in the NCSA”


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The project will: • strengthen the capacity of the relevant agencies such as the WRA, RADA to

provide the technical support to farmers and communities in appropriate farming practices;

• to reforest thousands of hectares of public and private lands;

• to contribute to the building of a portfolio of CDM projects within the portfolio ministry; and

• to utilize the earnings from the CDM project to support the community and similar projects.

NATIONAL ACTION PLAN

NATIONAL CAPACITY SELF-ASSESSMENT (NCSA)

Prepared for

National Environment and Planning Agency National Capacity Self-Assessment Project (NCSA)

10-11 Caledonia Avenue Kingston 5

Prepared by

Denise Forrest Lead Consultant & Project Manager

&

Dr. Elaine Fisher Natural Resource Management Specialist

September 2005

Jamaica’s NCSA Action Plan September 2005

ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS .........................................................................................................................................................................II LIST OF ACRONYMS ..........................................................................................................................................................................III ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS .....................................................................................................................................................................V 1. BACKGROUND....................................................................................................................................................................................1 2. MONITORING MECHANISM.........................................................................................................................................................3 3. SHORT TERMS ACTIONS................................................................................................................................................................4 4. MEDIUM AND LONG TERM ACTIONS .................................................................................................................................. 13

Annex. Project Concepts/Notes................................................................................................................................................... 14 A.I. Convention on Biological Diversity...................................................................................................................................... 14

1. Project Concept: Preparation towards the Declaration of the Black River Lower Morass as a Protected Area under the NRCA Act (1991) with specific reference to Management Issues of the Upper Morass as they relate to the Lower Morass.......14 2. Project Note: National Strategy and Action Plan for Alien Invasive Species ...........................................................................18 3. Project Note: Coral Reef Rehabilitation ....................................................................................................................................19 4. Project Note: Institutional Strengthening of NEPA and Stakeholder Agencies .........................................................................20

A. II. The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety................................................................................................................................ 23 B. United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification ....................................................................................................... 24 C. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change............................................................................................. 25

Concept Note: Climate Change: Development of an Impact Model for Jamaica. .........................................................................25 D. Cross–Cutting Project Concept Notes.................................................................................................................................... 26

1. Institutional Strengthening in the Area of Public Awareness Education and Training .............................................................26 2. Institutional Strengthening and Governance .............................................................................................................................26 3. Institutional Strengthening through Reforestation and Sustainable Land Management in Watersheds. ..................................27

APPENDICES ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 29 Appendix I. List of Reports.........................................................................................................................................................31 Appendix 1I. Alien Invasive Species Management Strategy for Jamaica ....................................................................................32 Appendix III. Coral Reef Rehabilitation .......................................................................................................................................39 Appendix IV. Strengthening and Developing of Environmental Management Tools for Effective Governance and to Address Institutional Strengthening in Jamaica in Response to Priority Areas of Action in the NCSA .....................................................44


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LIST OF ACRONYMS

BCH Biosafety Clearing House

CBD Convention on Biological Diversity

CDM Clean Development Mechanism

CHM Clearing House Mechanism

CIDA Canadian International Development Agency

CNA Competent National Authority

ENACT Environment Action Programme

EU European Union

GEF Global Environment Facility

GCM Global Circulation Models

GOJ Government of Jamaica

IOJ Institute of Jamaica

MACC Mainstreaming Adaptation for Climate Change

MFAFT Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade

MLE Ministry of Land and Environment

MPAs Marine Protected Areas

MS Meteorological Services

MSP Medium Sized Project

NAP National Action Plan

NBSAP National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan

NCSA National Capacity Self Assessment

NCST National Commission on Science and Technology

NEPA National Environment and Planning Agency

NISP National Implementation Support Partnership

NOAA National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NRCA Natural Resources Conservation Authority

PIOJ Planning Institute of Jamaica

RADA Rural Agricultural Development Authority

RAMSAR Ramsar Convention on Wetlands

TNC The Nature Conservancy


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TORs Terms of Reference

UNCCD United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

UNDP United Nations Development Programme

UNEP United Nations Environmental Programme

UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

UWI University of the West Indies

WRA Water Resources Authority


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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We wish to thank the National Environmental and Planning Agency, the Ministry of Land and Environment and the members of the Project Steering Committee (PSC) for the ir support and assistance during the execution of the project. We also wish to extend our appreciation to the many organisations and individuals who participated in the consultations their contributions were invaluable to the NCSA process. Special thanks go to Mrs. Winsome Townsend, Director Strategic Planning Policy and Projects Division (NEPA) and chair of PSC, Miss Keina Montaque, Project Assistant (NCSA) and the Conventions Focal Points for their support. Funding for the NCSA was provided by the Government of Jamaica, United Nations Development Programme and the Global Environment Facility.


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1. BACKGROUND Jamaica has ratified the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). In June 2004, Jamaica officially launched the National Capacity Self-Assessment Project (NCSA) aimed at conducting a comprehensive examination of the country’s capacity to execute actions under the conventions as well as the need for and benefits to be derived from a coordinated and cross-sectional approach to environmental activities in order to meet its national priorities and global commitments. The project provided Jamaica with the opportunity to conduct a thorough self-assessment and analysis of national capacity needs priorities and constraints with respect to efforts at meeting global environmental management objectives. The specific objectives to be accomplished through the project implementation included:

(i) To identify, confirm and review priority issues for action within the thematic areas of Biodiversity, Climate Change and Desertification;

(ii) To explore related capacity needs within and across the three thematic areas;

(iii) To elaborate a national action plan that focuses on capacity building to address the global

environmental commitments;

(iv) To provide a solid basis for the preparation of requests for future external funding and assistance;

(v) To link country action to the broader national environmental management and sustainable

development framework; and

(vi) To monitor and evaluate the implementation of the action plan as part of a process of continuous improvement.

The project is expected to produce the following outcomes:

• Build national capacity to take issues related to the three Conventions into account in general planning and strategy formulation;

• Find ways to coordinate and harmonize overlapping activities among the three Conventions

and to help to ensure effective national measures to protect the global environment;

• Prepare a comprehensive national action plan focused on capacity building that will identify overall goals, specific objectives to be achieved, follow-up projects, and courses of action;

• Support the transition from this enabling activity to the actual implementation of identified

follow up measures addressing loss in biodiversity, losses in soil fertility and climate change;

• Enhance general domestic awareness and knowledge about the three Conventions and their inter-relationship; and


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• Strengthen dialogue, information exchange and cooperation among all relevant stakeholders

including governmental, non-governmental, academic and private sectors.

The project was conducted in two phases. Phase I involved the actual evaluation of capacity issues in consultation with the stakeholders. The process which was executed from March 2004 to September 2005 involved the following stages: (i) stocktaking; (ii) thematic assessments; (iii) evaluation of cross-cutting issues and (iv) development of a national action plan. A number of reports were generated (Appendix I) in which the analysis of the country’s capacity was outlined along with recommendations and priority areas of action. The National Capacity Self-Assessment Report encapsulates all the findings of the thematic assessments and the resulting recommendations. One important objective of the NCSA process was to facilitate the development of concrete project proposals for further consideration by GEF and other interested donors. Throughout the NCSA process, analysis and recommendations were centered not only on evaluation of the thematic areas and cross-cutting issues, but also on the identification of actions to move the country into the next phase. The priority areas of action which were identified are as follows.

1. National Action Programmes (NAPs) developed and implemented as a matter of priority (Climate Change and Land Degradation).

2. Implementation of the NBSAP National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) to be

Jamaica’s programmatic response to the CBD. 3. Effective administrative mechanisms to be established to oversee implementation of NAPs

(reporting, accountability, coordination, performance targets). 4. Incorporation of NAP into corporate plans and work programmes (effective interagency project

management). 5. Develop harmonised policy and legal framework to support implementation. 6. Comprehensive integrated public awareness programmes implemented.

7. Effective coordinated fund raising.

This report outlines the National Action Plan to implement the NCSA’s recommendations developed drawing from the outcomes of the various stages. The Action Plan will articulate short, medium and long term objectives and priority actions. The major focus of this report will be the short term actions which over the next twelve months will concentrate on securing funding for the project concepts/outlines1 (Annex I) and improving the mechanisms for institutional coordination. It is important to note that the project concepts/outlines will require further development. This report also identifies medium and long terms action. It is anticipated that the action plan (which will be elaborated after the twelve month monitoring period) will further address those issues.

1 Jamaica’s National Capacity Self-Assessment Report


3

2. MONITORING MECHANISM Monitoring and evaluating the implementation of the National Action Plan is an important part of the NCSA process. It will involve the continuous review of progress in implementing activities against the projected schedules. A Monitoring Committee which includes the National Focal Points for each convention, the executing agencies/organisations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade (MFAFT), the Planning Institute of Jamaica, (PIOJ) and MLE will be responsible for monitoring the plan over a period of twelve months. It is expected that the National Focal Points will play an important role in the monitoring process. An independent evaluation is expected to be done after the 12 month period, and two critical outputs should be (i) an action plan for the next 12 months and (ii) a status report. The Committee is expected to start its work at the end of October 2005. The main focus of the committee during the 12 month period should be to seek funding for project concepts and to find an effective mechanism for institutional coordination.


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3. SHORT TERMS ACTIONS The Action Plan addresses the areas which were identified as priority areas of action during the thematic and cross cutting assessments and covers a twelve month period following on the completion of the NCSA Report. For the purpose of this report short tem is defined as up to one year; medium term 2-5 years and long term greater than five years. The short term actions will resolve around securing funding and strengthening the institutional coordination mechanism. These two matters are considered critical success factors which must be achieved in order that medium and long term planning can be done in a meaningful manner. This however, does not mean that these activities will not continue into the medium and long term planning cycles. The work programme in the short term is outlines in the table below. In terms of funding, the focus will be on obtaining funding for the ‘pipeline’ of project concepts/notes (Annex I) which were developed during Phase I of the project. At the end of the twelve months the Action Plan will be reviewed and updated and will form the basis of continual planning, monitoring and evaluation of the country’s performance as it related to addressing national priorities and meeting it s international environmental obligations.


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A. CONVENTION ON BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY (CBD) AND CARTAGENA PROTOCOL ON BIOSAFETY PROJECT CONCEPT /ACTIVITY

ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY* TIMEFRAME† FUNDING REQUIRED

1. Coral Reef Rehabilitation & Sustainable Fisheries

• Identifying and securing funding for activity through NISP

- Project concept developed - Project document 1st draft developed

1. MLE –Senior Director, Environmental Management Division 2. CBD Focal Point 3. NISP Coordinator 4. NISP Committee

1/10/05 – 30/9/06 Target US$ 6 M • GEF • TNC

2. Project Concept: Preparation towards the Declaration of the Black River Lower Morass as a Protected Area under the NRCA Act (1991) with specific reference to the Upper Morass and the attendant Management Issues as they relate to the Lower Morass

• Assessment of the impact of upper morass on lower morass

• Examination of options for protection (including declaration)

1. NEPA – Director Integrated Planning and Environment Division 2. Manager Protected Areas Branch 3. NBSAP Coordinator Biodiversity Branch 4. NISP Committee

1/10/05 – 30/9/06 Target US $ 500,000 • GEF • TNC

3. Development Alien Invasive Species Strategy

Focus on executing the activity through regional project currently under development. • Comment on and sign off on

draft regional project to ensure national considerations are included

• Planning for implementation

1. NEPA – Director Integrated Planning and Environment Division 2. Manager Biodiversity Branch 3. Alien Invasive Species Working Group 4. CARDI

1/10/05 – 28/2/06 Target US $ 200,000 • GEF • TNC • EU


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4. Institutional Strengthening of NEPA and other Implementing Organisations

The actions will involve a number of discrete but related areas • Strengthening of legislative

framework (alien species, access to genetic resources, intellectual property rights2 & land ownership in protected areas3)

• Expansion of flora and fauna database with linkages to national CHM

• Designing & implement a comprehensive public education programme – target key institutions e.g. judiciary, customs, police and local government4

.

1. NEPA – Director Strategic Planning Policy and Projects Division 2. Director, Legal & Enforcement Division 3. Manager, Public Education and Corporate Communications Branch 4. NCSA Project Assistant 5. Clearing House Mechanism, IOJ 6. Jamaica Intellectual Property Office

1/10/05- 30/9/06 Target US $ 750,000 • GEF • TNC • CIDA • Bilateral and Multi-lateral

5. Institutional Strengthening for Biosafety

The actions will involve a number of discrete but related areas • Completion of policy and

legislative framework • Rationalisation of

1. MLE –Senior Director, Environmental Management Division 2. Biosafety Focal Point 3. NCST – National Biosafety Committee

1/10/05- 30/9/06 Target US $ TBD UNEP Biosafety Project funds Phase II

2 Important to refer to the Add-On Enabling Activity Project proposal which has been submitted to UNDP for GEF funding and which includes the areas access to genetic resources and intellectual property rights 3 Must take into consideration Draft Easement Act 4 Important to take into consideration work of ENACT


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institutional responsibilities (including decision re Focal Point and Competent

• National Authority (CNA) • Establish BCH web page • Capacity building for Risk

Management & Risk Assessment

4. IOJ – Natural History Division


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B. UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION TO COMBAT DESERTIFICATION (LAND DEGRADATION/UNCCD) ACTIVITY ACTIONS RESPONSIBILITY* TIMEFRAME† FUNDING REQUIRED 1. Development of National Action Programme (NAP)

• Focus on development and completion of NAP which will guide the country’s interventions re UNCCD

1. MLE – UNCCD Focal Point

1/10/05 – 31/12/05 US$ 25,000 (in place) • UNCCD Secretariat

2. Establish National Coordinating Committee on Land Degradation

• Review membership on defunct Working Committee on UNCCD and Drought Committee

• Establish National Coordinating Committee (TORs, Reporting mechanisms etc)

1. MLE – UNCCD Focal Point

1/10/05 – 31/12/05 GOJ recurrent expenditure

3. Prepare Sustainable Land Management Project Proposal (GEF MSP)

• Preliminary assessment of land degradation and related environmental issues.

1. Conservator of Forests, Forestry Department 2. MLE– Focal Point Land Degradation 3. Project Manager

1/10/05 – 31/3/06 US $ 25,000 (in place) • GEF OP # 15 (MSP –US $ 500,000)


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C. UNITED NATIONS FRAMEWORK CONVENTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE (UNFCCC) PROJECT CONCEPT /ACTIVITY


1. Completion of Expedited Enabling Activity Project (Phase II)

• This activity is almost completed and will have the following outputs

- Technical Needs Assessment - Systematic Observation Systems (hydrology & metrology gaps) - Public Education Strategy • Outputs to be fed into 2nd

Communication

1. UNFCCC Focal Point 2. MS – Project Coordinator 3. MLE – Senior Director Environmental Management

1/9/05 – 31/12/05 US$ 125,000 (in place) • UNDP/GEF

2. Execution of Stakeholder Assessment

• Focus to complete stakeholders consultations in order to access funding for preparation of 2nd National Communication

1. UNFCCC Focal Point 2. MS – Project Coordinator 3. MLE – Senior Director Environmental Management

1/9/05 – 31/12/05 US $ 15,000 (in place) • UNDP/GEF

3. Establish National Climate Change Committee

• Establish National Climate Change Committee (TORs, Reporting mechanisms etc)

1. MLE – Senior Director Environmental Management 2. UNFCCC Focal Point


4. Preparation 2nd National Communication (Chapters in document will address the issue of a NAP)

• The 2nd National Communication will contain 2 chapters on steps to be taken or envisaged to implement the Convention and measures to facilitate adequate adaptation to

1. UNFCCC Focal Point 2. MS – Project Manager 3. National Climate Change Committee 4. MLE – Senior Director Environmental Management

1/1/06-30/9/06 Target US $ 420,000 (available) • GEF


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climate change.

5. Development of Climate Change Impact Model

• Focus will be on identifying and securing funding for the activity

- Project concept developed - Project document 1st draft developed • The local model will build

on the existing contribution from the regional climate change data/experience

• The model on its completion will be a tool for policy decision makers re adapting to climate change

1. MLE Inter Convention Steering Committee 2. UNFCCC Focal Point

1/10/05 – 30/9/06 Target US $ 5,000,000 • GEF • Bilateral and Multi-lateral

• NOAA • Hadley Centre (UK)


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D. CROSS CUTTING ISSUES INTER CONVENTION COORDINATION PROJECT CONCEPT /ACTIVITY


1. Establishment Inter Convention Coordination Committee

• Committee to give general oversight on implementation of Conventions

1. MLE –Permanent Secretary


2. Monitor National Action Plan (Inter Convention Coordination Committee)

• Coordinate work on cross cutting issues of legal and public education

• Coordinate major funding efforts

• Report to PS Board to further facilitate inter ministerial involvement

• Report to Cabinet Sub Committee of the status of national priorities and environmental obligations

1. MLE –Permanent Secretary 2. Secretariat Support from NCSA Monitoring Phase NEPA - Director Strategic Planning Policy and Projects Division 3. Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Foreign Trade, Director of Economic Affairs Department

1/10/05- 30/9/06 US $ 22,000 (in place NCSA)

3. Coordination of funding (> US $ 500,000)

• Guiding and coordinating funding efforts for ‘pipeline’ of projects which resulted from NCSA. The major project concepts are:

- Climate Change Impact Model - Coral Reef Rehabilitation

1. MLE –Permanent Secretary 2. Inter Convention Coordinating Committee 3. Conventions Focal Points

1/10/05 – 30/9/06 Target US $ 12,000,000 • GEF • EU • Bilateral and Multilateral


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4. Monitor NCSA MSP development

(Institutional Strengthening and Governance)

• Focus will be on the preparation of PDF A and the project document

1. MLE –Permanent Secretary 2. Secretariat Support from NCSA Monitoring Phase NEPA - Director Strategic Planning Policy and Projects Division

1/9/05 – 30/6/06 US $ 50,000 (available) • GEF NCSA (MSP –US $ 500,000)

5. Development of other cross cutting project concepts

• Guiding and coordinating the development of project proposals (involving all 3 conventions).

1. Institutional Strengthening in the area Public Awareness Education and Training

2. Institutional Strengthening through Reforestation and Sustainable Land Management in Watersheds

1. MLE –Permanent Secretary 2. Inter Convention Coordinating Committee 3. Conventions Focal Points

1/10/05-30/9/06 Target US $ 2,000,000 • GEF • EU • Bilateral and Multilateral

Notes * The organisation named as number 1 is responsible for the activity/areas. The other organisation listed will collaborate with the lead organisation. † The timeframe represents the proposed duration within which the stated activity should be completed or project concept developed.


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4. MEDIUM AND LONG TERM ACTIONS The table below outlines the activities which must form part of the medium to long term activities as it relates to the findings of the NCSA. These recommendations are made recognizing that other opportunities may emerge in the future which will also form part of the country’s response to the Rio Conventions. These proposed actions are focused on the findings of the NCSA. Table 1 Proposed Medium Term and Long Term Actions Medium Term Long Term 1. Incorporation of NAPs action into the Corporate Plans and yearly work programmes of the implementing organisations

1. Incorporation of training needs in local and regional universities

2. Institutional strengthening of the main implementing organisations (NEPA, MS, Forestry Department, CPC)

2. Continuation of public education programmes but with a refinement of the messages based on growing awareness

3. Develop harmonised policy and legal framework to support implementation

3. Climate Change Model incorporated in decision making framework

4. Comprehensive integrated public awareness programmes implemented

5. Effective coordinated fund raising

6. NBSAP and NAPs reviewed and updated 7. Decision making tools used increasingly and governance mechanisms strengthened

Note: Medium term defined as 2-5 years Long term greater than 5 years


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Annex. Project Concepts/Notes

A.I. Convention on Biological Diversity In keeping with the proposal from the focus groups and national workshop that the NBSAP would be the primary instrument to guide the implementation of the CBD, the following projects concepts, taken in the main from the NBSAP, were identified by NEPA (in consultation with stake holder agencies) as those from the NBSAP that should be included in the Action Plan:

1. Preparation for the Declaration of the Lower Black River Morass under the NRCA Act (1991) with particular Reference to management of the Upper Morass;

2. National Strategy for Alien Invasive Species; 3. Coral Reef Rehabilitation; and 4. Institutional Strengthening NEPA and other implementing organisations. Elements include:

a. strengthening of legislative framework (alien species, access to genetic resources, intellectual property rights & land ownership in protected areas),

b. expansion of endemic and endangered flora and fauna database with linkages to national CHM; and

c. designing & implementing a comprehensive public education programme – targeting key institutions e.g. judiciary, customs, police and local government.

1. Project Concept: Preparation towards the Declaration of the Black River Lower Morass as a Protected Area under the NRCA Act (1991) with specific


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reference to Management Issues of the Upper Morass as they relate to the Lower Morass

Introduction Arising from the NCSA process was that NBSAP would be the primary instrument to guide the implementation of the CBD. One of the project concepts selected for immediate attention and also listed in part, as highest priority in the Action Plan was the Preparation for the Declaration of the Lower Black River Morass under the NRCA Act (1991) with particular Reference to management of the Upper Morass.

Site Description and Project Rationale The Black Morass, (Upper and Lower Morass), constitutes the largest wetland in Jamaica and the Caribbean and is situated on the southwestern coast in the parish of St. Elizabeth. The Upper Morass constitutes 1762 ha, and the Lower Morass 6075 ha. The Black River enters the Lower Morass via a short valley from the Upper Morass.5 The Morass is biologically diverse and supports a large number of plants, animals and natural communities and is home to a number of endemic plants and animals. Jamaica is committed to sustainable use of its natural resources and one demonstration of its commitment is through a system of protected areas. It is home to 207 species of flora, of which 11 are endemic and 22 are rare.6 Plants of economic importance include the Bull Thatch (Sabal jamaciencis), which is used in basket weaving. One hundred and ninety seven species of birds have been recorded from the area of which 15 are endemic to Jamaica. Detailed information on the site can be found in: Massa & Haynes-Sutton, “Black River Managed Resource Area, Management Plan 1999” (Draft). The site is therefore biologically of national and global significance. It is also of significant economic and social importance to the local communities. It supports a number of industries such as, fishing industry, mining, agriculture and tourism. The ecological integrity of the Morass is therefore of importance to the local communities.

Features of the Upper Morass The Upper Morass has been significantly altered from its original state and supports little tourism.7 Massa & Sutton (1999) report that from preliminary surveys, the Upper Morass includes the best habitat for the West Indian Whistling Duck in Jamaica. Also the Upper Morass protects the Lower Morass from siltation and pollution, thereby acting as a settling basin, and a pollution and nutrient sink.

The Lower Morass The Black River Lower Morass is the largest herbaceous wetland in Jamaica and reportedly contains the best example of Amazonian type swamp forest and is considered to be most

5 Dale Webber et al: Towards the Management of the Black River Morass (RAMSAR Site) 2001 6 Massa & Haynes-Sutton, Black River Managed Resource Area Management Plan 1999 (Draft) 7 Massa & Haynes-Sutton, Black River Managed Resource Area Management Plan 1999 (Draft)


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important of Jamaica’s wetlands. The Lower Morass contains 92 species of flowering plants of which 9% are endemic to Jamaica. Agricultural activities include the cultivation of fruit trees, sugar cane, rice, dasheen and other food crops. Fishing and harvesting of shrimp takes place and in many cases this is the only means of livelihood for the local people. The site is owned by the Government of Jamaica and the Petroleum Corporation of Jamaica.8 In 1997, the Lower Morass, (along with the Upper Morass and the Greater Morass Parottee) was declared a Game Reserve under the Wild Life Protection Act 1945, and in 1997 was designated a Ramsar Site under the Convention on Wetlands International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat (Ramsar Convention). The Lower Morass is therefore of significant ecological and economic significance. However, designation as a Ramsar site does not offer it national protection, also, declaration as a Game Reserve only offers protection to birds, and other protected animals. It is therefore important that this wetland be declared a protected area under the NRCA Act 1991 to facilitate adequate protection. Factors adversely affecting the Lower Morass include loss of flora due to fires, removal of trees for timber and fuel, harvesting of palm fronds, thatch and Phragmites sp. for construction material and basket weaving. The most obvious negative impacts occur in the swamp forest and mangrove forest. 19979 . The Management Plan for the Lower Morass needs to be finalized followed by the delegation of a Management Authority.

Background A significant amount of research has been conducted on the Black River Morass and more specifically on the Lower Morass. Also a number of measures have been taken to protect not only the Lower Morass, but the Entire Black River Morass. As far back as 1992 the Black River area was included in the Draft Plan for a System of Parks and Protected Areas in Jamaica. In 1995 the PARC II project proposed the declaration of a national park to include the Upper and Lower Morass and adjacent areas. The 1997 Policy for Jamaica’s System of Protected Areas cites the Black River Morass as a protected area candidate. In 1997 the Lower Morass was designated a Ramsar Site. In March 1999, a draft Management Plan was completed for the Black River Managed Resource Area which included the Upper Morass.10 In 2001, Webber et al completed a report titled Towards the Management of the Black River Morass (RAMSAR site) gathering biological, social and economic data. This was supported under the Ramsar Convention’s Small Grants Fund. The data and findings are to “inform the Management Plan for the Black River Lower Morass”. With the Lower Morass being designated a Ramsar Site, the decision is now to declare the Lower Morass as a Protected Area. The site has also been designated a Conservation Area in the St. Elizabeth Development Order.

Activities

8 Source: http://www.wetlands.org/RDB/Ramsar_Dir/Jamaica/JM001D02.htm 9 Source: http://www.wetlands.org/RDB/Ramsar_Dir/Jamaica/JM001D02.htm 10 Massa & Haynes-Sutton.


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• Determine activities in the Upper Morass that negatively impact on the Lower Morass, such as pollution by dunder from the Appleton Sugar Estate which enters not only by way of a sink hole which emerges into the Elim River, but also from the Black River;11

• implement the provisions of the Draft Easement Act (prepared with the supported of TNC), which would offer some solutions to the issue of Privately Owned Lands in the Upper Morass;12 ,13

• explore the issue of financial sustainability of the proposed protected area, taking into consideration work currently being done by TNC;

• review management issues currently being raised as they related to the 1997 policy on protected areas;

• investigate ways and means to convey some degree of protection the Upper Morass outside of Declaration;

• work with local communities to ensure sustainable utilization of the economic resources from which they benefit;

• develop a public awareness programme for the schools in the community and users ; and • develop a Management Plan for the Lower Morass.

Expected Outputs • financial plan for the proposed protected area; • issue of protection measures for privately owned lands resolved; • public education programme developed; • issues related to the impact of the Upper Morass on the Lower Morass determined; • the issue of pollution from the sugar estate resolved; • measures for protection of the Upper and Lower Morass developed; and • Management Plan for the Lower Morass developed.

Responsible Agency: NEPA Partners: MLE, Forestry Department, Fisheries Division, UWI, TNC,

also private companies e.g. Appleton Sugar Estate.

11 Source: Mr. Dillard Knight, NEPA Laboratories. 12 This is contingent on the finalization of this Act 13 The completion of the Revised Systems Plan currently being funded by the EFJ, the Canadian Jamaica Green Fund, with support from TNCis critical to this process;


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2. Project Note: National Strategy and Action Plan for Alien Invasive Species The preparation of an alien invasive species management strategy was identified in the NBSAP as a highest priority project. During the life of the Secretariat, established in NEPA to assist in the implementation of the NBSAP, a project proposal was developed for this project. Details of this proposal can be found in Appendix II. Overlapping with this exercise was the development of a regional project14 on invasive species including countries such as Cuba, Trinidad and Jamaica. The project is still in draft form and NEPA has been participating in its development. Taking into consideration the role of NEPA in both projects it would be difficult at this stage for NEPA to abandon its participation in the regional process. Expected outcomes of the regional project include the development of national, sub-regional and regional strategies and policies. This is an obvious overlap with the national project proposal. Also, the issue of invasive species in Protected Areas is one of the projects identified in the National Implementation Support Partnership (NISP). The role of the monitoring committee during the twelve month period should therefore be to ensure that the concerns/activities enunciated in the national proposal are taken on board fully in the final draft of the regional policy and that the potential contribution of the NISP is taken into consideration.

14 Preparation by CARDI


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3. Project Note: Coral Reef Rehabilitation Rehabilitation of Coral Reef Ecosystems is classified as a highest priority project in the NBSAP. Also the establishment of marine protected areas has been emphasized in the protected areas work programme of the CBD. While the NBSAP secretariat also developed a project proposal for this project concept, (see Appendix III), in discussions with stake holder agencies and an important partner, The Nature Conservancy, it was agreed that a larger project proposal, involving the entire island, should be prepared by the NISP Coordinator during her period of tenure at the MLE. This post is being supported by The Nature Conservancy. Also, TNC’s eco-regional assessment project should be taken into account when developing a project proposal. It is anticipated that the project will cost approximately US$ six million. It is important that this project proposal development be monitored during the twelve month monitoring and evaluation period of the NCSA.


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4. Project Note: Institutional Strengthening of NEPA and Stakeholder Agencies Elements identified for inclusion in this project are: • Strengthening of legislative framework (alien species, access to genetic resources, intellectual

property rights and land ownership in protected areas) • Expansion of flora and fauna database with linkages to national CHM • Designing and implementing a comprehensive public education programme, targeting key

institutions e.g. judiciary, customs, police and local government

a. Strengthening of the Environmental Legislative Framework This includes a number of cross cutting issues identified in the CBD’s work programmes and in the NBSAP.

i. Alien Invasive species: Activities include:

• Review of draft amendments to the Wild Life Protection Act 1945 on invasive species. Draft amendments to this Act were put on hold in anticipation of the promulgation of the Environment and Planning legislation.

This aspect of the project must take into consideration the development of an Alien Invasive Species Strategy and Action Plan. (See Project Note 2 above) ii. Access to genetic resources: It is important that before designing/developing this project that reference is made to the CBD Add-On Enabling Activity Project which has been submitted to UNDP for funding for the GEF. In this project is an a activity on Access to Genetic Resources, Benefit-Sharing Formulation of Mechanisms for these purposes Work identified to be done include:

• an assessment of current legislative, administration and policy measures, formulation of access and benefit sharing mechanisms and an evaluation of the institutional and human resource capacity; and

• assessments of existing legal and administrative measures that should identify potential problems related to intellectual property right regimes and ownership issues.

The stated expected output of this activity will be “an assessment report that will identify the institutional and human resources needed to sustainably utilize Jamaica's genetic resources and to identify possible pathways in developing benefit-sharing mechanisms”.

In further developing this activity specific actions could include: • review the CBD Bonn Guidelines on Access to Genetic Resources and Fair and Equitable

Sharing of Benefits Arising out of their Utilization • review and keep abreast of the work of the CBD Ad Hoc Open-Ended Working Group

on Access and Benefit-Sharing whose work includes: (i) To elaborate and negotiate the nature, scope and elements of an international regime on access and benefit-sharing within the framework of the Convention on Biological Diversity, as contained in paragraphs (b), (c) and (d) below, drawing on inter alia an analysis of existing legal and other instruments at national, regional and international


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levels relating to access and benefit-sharing, including: access contracts; experiences with their implementation; compliance and enforcement mechanisms; and any other options. • review of draft amendments to the Wild Life Protection Act 1945 on access to genetic

resources. Draft amendments to this Act were put on hold in anticipation of the promulgation of the NEPA Act. The NEPA Act is still in draft form;

• review the current Material Transfer Agreement being used by NEPA: and • legislate Material Transfer Agreement to ensure that any disputes which may arise can be

dealt with in a Jamaican court of law.

iii. Intellectual Property Rights: This is a very complex area, and limited work has been done in the area of biodiversity. However, this is an important cross–cutting area under the CBD which recognizes "the importance for biological diversity of indigenous and local communities embodying traditional life styles relevant for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity. The CBD has been working closely with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) in this area. It is important to note that Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) has implications for the WTO TRIPS (World Trade Organisation Trade-related aspects of intellectual property rights) Agreement. The Add-On Enabling Activity Project previously referred to above includes activities related to IPRs and this must be taken into account before developing any project on IPRs. It is also important that the Jamaica Intellectual Property Office be involved with any such project. The activities of the Add-On Enabling Activity Project include:

• assessment of existing policy, legislative and administrative measures in the area of IPRs to determine gaps and how they affect local communities;

• assessment of gaps in documentation and capacity needs in this area; and • review of relevant institutions and organizations, identifying potential synergies and or

tensions. • participation of local communities in order to determine their priority needs.

The expected output will include:

• an assessment report on the status of the recording of traditional knowledge; • potential ways and means to protect this knowledge; and • the institutional and administrative capacity required to protect this knowledge.

iv. Land Ownership in Protected Areas: A Draft Easement Act has already been prepared through the assistance of TNC. This deals with the issue of Land Ownership and possible ways of compensating private land owners to encourage conservation and sustainable use of their lands which may fall in protected areas. During the monitoring phase, there could be some follow up on the draft Act, to ensure that it is finalised.

b. Expansion of flora and fauna database with linkages to national CHM A finding of the biodiversity thematic assessment was that there was a need by NEPA for adequate information on endemic and endangered species to be able to take appropriate decisions for example in the area of issuing permits. The focus here would be to:


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• collate existing relevant information from the various sites and agencies, such as the IOJ and the UWI;

• populate the relevant NEPA database with the information gathered and link to the national CHM; and

• determine the immediate needs of NEPA for specific species or ecosystems.

c. Designing & implement a comprehensive public education programme for key institutions e.g. judiciary, customs, police and local government.

Work has already started in this area through the Environmental Action (ENACT) programme15 and by NEPA, through its Public Education and Corporate Communications Branch. It is important that NEPA collaborates with the other executing agencies related to the other Conventions in design and delivery of such a programme as it is indeed a cross-cutting area. The entire project: “ Institutional Strengthening of NEPA and stakeholder Agencies” covers such a wide array of topics that the author suggests that it be broken down into discrete elements each of which could be considered separately and be implemented over a longer time period. The focus during the period should be on the development of the project concepts, proposals, or the monitoring of projects already developed or being developed.

15 The ENACT programme is building Jamaica’s capabilities to manage and preserve the environment within the context of sustainable development. It is implemented by the Government of Jamaica through the National Environment and Planning Agency (formerly the Natural Resources Conservation Authority, NRCA) and a Canadian joint venture Dessau-Soprin & Marbek. ENACT was initiated in 1994 when preliminary work began laying down the foundations for the programme. The programme is funded by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and the GOJ. (Taken from the ENACT Website).


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A. II. The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety While projects were not identified in the Focus Group discussions or the National Work Shop, in the Focus Group discussions a number of areas were identified as requiring action. These included: • Completion of policy and legislative framework which was started with the UNEP/GEF/GOJ

project which ended last year; • rationalisation of institutional responsibilities (including decision re Focal Point and the

Competent National Authority; • establishment of the Biosafety Clearing House web site, the IOJ NHD has this responsibility

and has agreed to start work in October; and • capacity building in the areas of risk assessment and risk management.


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B. United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification Areas for priority action identified in the Focus Groups and the National Workshop were:

• develop a National Action Plan – funds are already in place; • constitute a National Coordinating Committee; and • develop a project on Land Degradation. A project proposal, PDF A, was prepared and

submitted through UNDP to the GEF for the development of a medium sized project. This has been approved. The Forestry Department has been designated the executing agency and is expected to begin as early as October, 2005.


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C. United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change A number of project concepts identified in the Focus Groups and the National Workshop. Top priority concepts are:

§ the development of a national action plan for mitigation and adaptation; and § the development of regional climate models at the small scale of small islands to allow

for better analysis and understanding of the climatic processes. The CSGM has started to address this issue through the MACC initiative. Below is Project Concept Note for the development of an impact model for Jamaica.

Concept Note: Climate Change: Development of an Impact Model for Jamaica. Jamaica became a Party to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, UNFCCC in 1995 and the Kyoto Protocol in 1999. The National Capacity Self-Assessment Project, (NCSA) has assessed Jamaica’s implementation of the three so-called “Rio Conventions on the Environment” and this project concept note has been prepared to fulfill one of the project’s requirements. Jamaica is a small island developing state and the adverse effects of climate change poses the greatest environment threat and challenge to her two and a half million people. These adverse effects will have their greatest impact on the coastal zone, the water resources sector, the agricultural sector and the human health sector. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has produced the global predictions for the expected changes in the Third Assessment Report. However, as stated in this report the effects will different for each region of the world and in some cases may exceed the predicted values. An additional factor that is of concern to all small islands is the use of the Global Circulation Models (GCM) with grid size resolution of 50 kilometres. This resolution is much too large to give a true representation of the meteorological parameters with respect to small islands hence the need for statistical downscaling to finer resolutions. Therefore, of critical importance to the decision makers is the information pertaining to how changes in sea level, surface temperature and rainfall resulting from climate change will impact on these four sectors. The development of a climate change impact model for Jamaica would provide much of this information. The Climate Studies Group affiliated to Physics Department of the University of the West Indies at Mona has successfully refined the outputs of the GCM to a workable resolution for the Caribbean region and is willing to lead the development of an impact model for Jamaica. The desired outputs would include vulnerability assessments, adaptation options, social and economic impacts indicators for the water, agriculture, human health and coastal sectors using various climatic and emissions scenarios


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D. Cross–Cutting Project Concept Notes The following Project Concept Notes are considered to be cross cutting issues, arising from both the thematic and cross-cutting assessments.

1. Institutional Strengthening in the Area of Public Awareness Education and Training Jamaica’s National Capacity Self Assessment identified the following as key areas of capacity constraints across all three Conventions:

• lack of adequate funding for education and awareness;

• lack of understanding by decision makers of the importance of sound environmental practices into the economic and development decision-making process;

• lack of coordination, (which does not make the best use of the relatively limited available resources);

• the need for a central collection of resource materials, (print and electronic) for environmental education materials which is easily accessible, e.g. through the CHM;

§ the need for creative, environmentally sound awareness programmes across the three conventions. These programmes need to move beyond awareness to behavioural change;

§ need for technical skills in some areas, e.g. economic evaluation of biological resources, hydro-geologists, climatologists and meteorologists;

§ need for training of teacher educators in the area of environment and sustainable use of natural resources; and

§ insufficient resource materials to implement the teaching of environmental education at the primary school.

The project will seek to develop a clear policy on environmental education, strengthen the capacity of key agencies and institutions to deliver environmental programmes, develop resource materials, establish central resource center, sensitize and provide relevant information for decision-makers, and support the training in areas of scarce technical skills.

2. Institutional Strengthening and Governance Jamaica’s National Capacity Self Assessment identified the issue of governance as a key area to be addressed in strengthening the institutional framework for effective implementation of the three Conventions. Some important findings were:

• lack of understanding by decision makers of the importance of sound environmental practices into the economic and development decision-making process;

• the need for economic valuation of environmental resources as a tool for decision making;


• lack of coordinated policy development and weak implementation; and


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• the need for a thorough assessment of the impact of the implementation and non-implementation of the various environmental policies the environment.

The Environmental Impact Assessment process is one of the cross-cutting tools under the CBD and the UNCCD. Effective use of this tool is a strong indicator of good governance in the area of environmental protection and sustainable use of natural resources. Additionally, economic evaluation is a valuable tool for decision makers. Jamaica’s natural forests are an extremely valuable resource and no economic evaluations of this resource have been done. The will project will use these two tools in the strengthening of the framework for good governance.

• This will be done through a pilot project, using a particular geographic area such as the Cockpit country (protected area slated for bauxite mining) whereby the economic valuation tool will be used to provide information to the decision makers and a conceptual EIA will be conducted, including a social impact assessment. The project will involve the various stakeholders, the development of procedures, training and lessons learnt which will be used as the basis of mainstreaming the findings at the end of the pilot. A project proposal, PDF A, has been developed for submission through UNDP to the GEF for the development of a medium sized project. Details of the project can be seen in Appendix IV.

3. Institutional Strengthening through Reforestation and Sustainable Land Management in Watersheds. Jamaica NCSA found that while the country has the ability to identify many of its problems related to the loss and degradation of the country’s biodiversity, it weakness lies in implementing sustainable programmes to address these problems. While this weakness is in part due to the lack of financial resources there is also the need to strengthen the capacity of the relevant technical support agencies and communities to implement these programmes. Conservation of forests and sustainable use of the forest biological resources are essential to achieving the objectives of the CBD. Jamaica was once covered with forests, but they are now restricted to areas least suitable for agriculture and human settlements, such as at high altitudes on steep rocky slopes and in rugged limestone areas. The major causes of deforestation are agricultural expansion from both large and small scale farming operations and unsustainable harvesting of trees for charcoal production. The loss of forest cover through these unsustainable practices has resulted in land degradation. There are also implications for climate change.

The project will:

• strengthen the capacity of the relevant agencies such as the WRA, RADA to provide the technical support to farmers and communities in appropriate farming practices;

• to reforest thousands of hectares of public and private lands;

• to contribute to the building of a portfolio of CDM projects within the portfolio ministry; and

• to utilize the earnings from the CDM project to support the community and similar projects.


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APPENDICES


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Appendix I. List of Reports 1. Inception Report 2. Stocktaking Report 3. Biodiversity Thematic Report 4. Climate Change Thematic Report 5. Land Degradation Thematic Report 6. Public Education and Awareness and Training - Cross Cutting Report 7. Policy and Legal - Cross Cutting. Report 8. Institutional and Funding Cross Cutting Report 9. National Action Plan 10. NCSA Report


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Appendix 1I. Alien Invasive Species Management Strategy for Jamaica

PROJECT CONCEPT PAPER 1. Project name: Preparation of Alien Invasive Species Management Strategy for Jamaica

2. Proposed GEF Implementing Agency: UNDP

3. Country or countries in which the project is being implemented:

Jamaica

4. Country eligibility: CBD Ratification: 1995

5. GEF focal area(s): Biodiversity (Enabling Activity)

6.Operational program/Short-term measure: Multifocal/Integrated Ecosystem Management/Forest Ecosystem

7. Project linkage to national priorities, action plans, and programs:

The Caribbean archipelago has been recognized as one of the world’s most significant repository of biological diversity. As the third largest island of the region, Jamaica is a vital component of this system. Its fauna and flora are unique, with many species occurring nowhere else. Investigations have shown that there are 923 endemic plants, 505 endemic and land snails and 91 endemic terrestrial vertebrates on the island. As the sole habitat for these species, Jamaica has a global responsibility to conserve them. This rich repository of biological diversity is being threatened however and is steadily on the decline. Data from the Jamaica’s Conservation Data Centre (although no longer operational) shows that 221 of the endemic flora and fauna species are now classified as ‘critically imperilled’ and ‘especially vulnerable to extinction’. The World Conservation Union (IUCN) conducted studies in 2002 and the results have showed that 345 flora and fauna species in Jamaica have been categorised as either being vulnerable, threatened or endangered. Jamaica has recognized its obligation to conserve its biodiversity and has embarked on several conservation efforts.

As a party to the CBD, Jamaica is obligated to implement the Article 6 under the convention and such has developed a National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP). One of the priority areas for implementation that has been identified in the NBSAP is to investigate the effect of alien invasive species which is in accordance with Article 8 (h) of the CBD. This project aims to develop a management strategy for the invasive alien species in Jamaica. The Government of Jamaica has also prepared a Jamaica Environmental Action Plan (JANEAP) which was developed to highlight the major environmental problems facing Jamaica, as well as to emphasise and establish the necessary corrective measures for environmental management to be undertaken by the various government parties. The investigation of the effects of alien invasive on biodiversity is listed as a priority area and such the project aims to address this obligation as well. 8. Status of national operational focal point review date(s):

Submitted: Acknowledged: Endorsing:


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9. Project rationale and objectives:

For decades conservationist have identified habitat destruction and habitat degradation as having the greatest negative effects on biodiversity. Recent investigations have shown however that alien invasive species is now one of the leading threats to biodiversity and the effect of these species is rapidly increasing. According to the World Conservation Union (IUCN) the effect of alien invasive species on native biodiversity has been reported as the second most important threat to biodiversity behind habitat loss. The effects that these species have on flora and fauna have proved to be very difficult to reverse. In addition the cost related to the effect of these species is not only related to the environment but they may also have economic implications to sectors such as agriculture, forestry, fisheries and human health. Although most of the evidence of economic damage has been seen in the developed world, it has been indicated that developing countries are beginning to experience similar, if not greater losses.

The isolation of the Jamaica from the mainland has encouraged species to evolve without selective pressures, limited predators, competitors or diseases. This unfortunately has proven to be detrimental when these alien invasive species are introduced. Alien invasive species tend to decimate the endemic taxa which have not evolved any defenses against these alien species. The problem is exacerbated by the ability of these invasives to become quickly established and hence their numbers multiply rapidly. They also have the capability to become so widely dispersed and integrated into an area, making efforts to eradicate them extremely difficult and expensive. Their influence on Jamaica’s fauna and flora has remained largely unknown except for a few cases.

Many of these species were brought to Jamaica by man dating back as far as the 1600s. Most were introduced intentionally for domestic use, while others were released in the wild as game species, pest control agents and exotic reminders of colonial origin. Other species were introduced inadvertently, particularly pests, parasites and commensals of both humans and non-human exotics. Some of these species arrived on their own however. Preliminary documentation of known alien invasive species in Jamaica has shown that seven of these species have been ranked by the IUCN as the World’s 100 worst invasive alien species (See Appendix 1 for list of known alien invasive in Jamaica). New species continue to be introduced to Jamaica. A Permit and License system was established by the Natural Resources Conservation Authority (NRCA) in 1997 to provide a regulatory framework to monitor activities and development. The importation of alien species is addressed by this Permit and License System whereby applicants are required to apply for a permit to introduce alien species into the country. In addition, the Plant Quarantine and Veterinary Services Divisions of the Ministry of Agriculture have specific regulations which importers have to adhere to when introducing alien species. These regulations however do not require an assessment of the potential of these alien species to become invasive. Also, there are no regulations that address the risk of captive organisms becoming established in the wild. Although a preliminary list of present known alien invasive species has been prepared (See Appendix 1), management options for these established species have rarely been investigated, and very few projects have ever attempted to control alien invasives for the benefit of the island’s threatened species and ecosystems.

An assessment therefore needs to be undertaken to investigate the status of Jamaica’s alien invasive species, the methods of their introduction and the review of the legislation pertaining to alien invasive species. This assessment will provide the information for the development of a


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comprehensive management strategy.

As the project will affect several stakeholders (government and non-government) it is anticipated that all involved will participate in a collaborative effort for the successful implementation of the project.

11. Objectives and Activities

Objective 1: Conduct an assessment of established alien invasive species.

Activities:

§ Determine modus/time of introduction of alien invasive species § Identify population status and distribution § Assess the threats and or benefits alien invasive species pose to native species and

ecosystems § Determine the species in need of urgent control § Prepare a list of all alien invasive species indicating the top ten most invasives and

indicating those that have the potential to become invasive § Determine the known control methods

Objective 2: To undertake the evaluation of the process of importation of alien invasive species

Activities:

§ Prepare a list of species imported in the last ten years § Identify method of importation for each species § Identify stakeholders in species importation and identify how their role in the

prevention of introduction of invasive species can be enhanced § Review legislation relevant to importation, identifying weaknesses, gaps and

inconsistencies § Review existing import and quarantine procedures and where necessary improved

Objective 3: To investigate the procedures involved in monitoring and controlling captive species.

Activities:

§ Identify captive alien species in need of monitoring and control; § Review legislation relevant to captive species identifying gaps, weaknesses and

inconsistencies; § Review existing monitoring and control procedures; and § Recommend methods to improve monitoring and control procedures where

necessary.


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Objective 4: Prepare Alien Invasive Specie Management Strategy

Activities:

§ Information from objectives 1-3 will be used to develop management strategy

Expected Outputs:

• Drafting instructions for alien invasive species prepared • Alien Invasive species management strategy prepared • Inventory of all alien invasive including the top ten invasive and potentially

invasive species undertaken

ACTIVITY SCHEDULE

ACTIVITIES 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Identify relevant stakeholders

( government and non-government) involved in areas related to alien invasive species

Identify and hire three consultants

Identify the modus/time of introduction of alien species and prepare a list of alien species imported in the last ten years

Determine the status of the population of alien species identifying which has become invasive or has the potential to become invasive.

Identify the threats or benefits of established alien invasive species on native species and ecosystems

Identify the alien invasive species in need of urgent control

Identify the known control methods of the alien invasive species identified


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Methods to improve monitoring and control of known alien invasive species identified

Review existing importation legislation for plants and animals and identify areas of gaps and weakness in legislation

Review the capacity of regulatory bodies and identify areas where their capacity can be improved

Preparation of final project report Preparation of Alien Invasive Management Strategy

INPUTS:

3 consultants will be identified and hired one each with special expertise in :

§ Flora § Fauna § Legislation and institutional capacity

Each expert will be employed for 20 days. One of the three will be appointed project leader whose

responsibility is to coordinate the project and prepare the final report. This project leader will be

employed for an additional 20 days.

BUDGET

ACTIVITIES COST ($US)

GOJ GEF

1 Flora Consultant for 20 days @ $250/ day 5,000.00

1 Fauna Consultant for 20 days @ $250 /day 5,000.00

1 Legal and capacity assessment consultant for 20 days @ $250/day

5,000.00

Preparation of Management Strategy for 20 days @$50 /day

1,000.00

Materials and supplies 500.00

TOTAL 1,500.00 15,000.00


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12. Stakeholders involved in project: Forestry Department, Fisheries Division, University of West Indies, Institute of Jamaica, National Commission on Science & Technology, Plant Quarantine Division, Veterinary Division, Customs and Immigration Division, Hope Zoo, Institute of Jamaica, Jamaica Horticultural Society, BirdLife Jamaica, Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park, Portland Bight Protected Area, Department of Life Sciences, the University of the West Indies, Mona. 13. Information on project proposer: National Environmental & Planning Agency (NEPA) is an Executive Agency that became operational on April1, 2001. NEPA represents a merger between the Natural Resources Conservation Authority (NRCA), Land Development Uitlisation Commission (LDUC) and The Town Planning Division (TPD). 14. Information on proposed executing agency (if different from above):

15. Estimated budget (in US$ or local currency) GEF Financing: $15,000.00 Co-financing: $1500.00 Estimated Total Budget: US $ 16,500.00

Estimated Starting Date: Duration: 12 months

APPENDIX 1 List of known Alien Invasive Species in Jamaica

Sub-category Scientific Name Common Name Insect Diatraea sp. Small Moth Borer Insect Heliothrips rubrocinctus Cacao Thrips Insect Cosmopolites sordidus Banana Borer Insect Coccus viridis Green Scale Insect Dysdercus spp. Cotton Stainers Insect Aleurocanthus woglumi Citrus Blackfly Insect Eretmocercus serius Eddy Wasp Insect Aphelinus diaspidis Golden Chaclid Insect Placsius avanus Java Beetle Insect Dactylosternum hydrophiloides Insect Dactylosternum abdominale Mammal Capra hircus Goat Mammal Rattus rattus Black/Roof Rat Mammal Rattus norvegicus Brown/Norway Rat Mammal Herpestes javanicus (auropunctatus) Small Indian Mongoose Mammal Odocoileus virginianus White-tailed Deer Mammal Sus scrofa Pig (feral) Mammal Felis catus Cat Amphibian Eleutherodactylus johnstonei Frog Amphibian Bufo marinus Bull Frog Reptile Sudamist Turtle Crustacean Macrobrachium rosenbergii Freshwater Prawn Crustacean Cherax quadricarinatus Red-claw lobster


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Mollusc Perna viridis Green-lipped Mussel Mollusc Dreissena polymorpha Zebra Mussel Bird Molothrus bonariensis Shiny Cowbird Plant Pittosporum undulatum Mock Orange Plant Melinis minutiflora Wynne Grass Plant Gleichenia sp. Bracken fern Plant Dichramopteris sp Fern Plant Nephrolepsis multiflora Sword/Boston Fern Plant Thelypteris opulanta Sword Fern Plant Adenanthera pavonia Red Bead Tree Plant Bambusa vulgaris Bamboo Plant Syzygium jambos Rose Apple Plant Hedychium coronarium White Ginger Lily Plant Eichornia crassipes Water Hyacinth Plant Eucalyptus Eucalyptus Plant Psidium cattleianum Strawberry Guava Plant Panicum maximum Guinea Grass Plant Brachiaria decumbens Plant Alpinia allughas Plant Hedycium cocineum Plant Hedychium gardnerianum Kahili ginger Plant Grevillea robusta Silky Oak Plant Casunaria equisetifolia Casunaria/Willo Plant Malaleuca spp. Bottle Brush Plant Maematoxylum campechianum Logwood Plant Polygonum chinense Plant Moghania strobilifera Wild Hops

*** Species in bold type are listed in the World Conservation Union (IUCN) Top One Hundred Most Invasive Species in the World.


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Appendix III. Coral Reef Rehabilitation PROJECT CONCEPT PAPER:

1. Project name: Rehabilitation of Coral Reef Ecosystems

2. Proposed GEF Implementing Agency: UNDP

3. Country or countries in which the project is being implemented:

Jamaica

4. Country eligibility: CBD Ratification: 1995

5. GEF focal area(s): Biodiversity

6.Operational program/Short-term measure: Coastal, Marine and Freshwater Ecosystems

7. Project linkage to national priorities, action plans, and programs: The coral reefs in Jamaica have been severely degraded and in the past 40 – 50 years have declined from 95% hard coral cover to, in some places, 5% hard coral cover. Coral reefs are integral parts of several of our prime industries, namely tourism and fisheries, and also provide several important ecological benefits. However, due to increases in pollution, destructive fishing practices, and increases in reef-related tourism activities coral reefs in Jamaica are under threat. This project aims to implement pilot projects in three Marine Protected Areas around the island in an effort to try to stem the damage being caused to the reef. The methodologies will then be used to implement projects island-wide.

Anthropogenic causes of coral reef degradation vary from direct sources such as dynamite and cyanide fishing to indirect sources such as terrestrial run-off leading to sedimentation and eutrophication. Because the coral reefs in Jamaica have been affected by many far-reaching activities a comprehensive, long-term project will have to be implemented in order to minimize these impacts. The three pilot projects are therefore slated to each be implemented over a 10 year period addressing both indirect and direct causes of reef degradation will be addressed as well as reviewing the institutional and legislative concerns. The projects will be implemented in Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) because both manpower as well as technical expertise should already be present in these areas. Also, MPAs are often in high traffic areas both for tourism related activities as well as fishing. Monitoring as well as enforcement should also already be ongoing activities within these areas so that changes to the coral reef ecosystems can be observed. It is hoped that the project will enhance the capacity of MPAs to protect the marine resources and ecosystems found within their boundaries. Three MPAs will be chosen based on the level of activity occurring within the Park boundaries. Two projects will be implemented in areas heavily impacted by tourism while the third will be in an area that is not heavily impacted by tourism. The project will include changes in legislative and institutional views as well as onsite activities such as the implementation of mooring buoys, coral reef mapping and monitoring to check the progress of the project, determining point and non-point sources of pollution, limiting the amount of effluent entering the marine environment, monitoring and implementation of new dive sites, implementation of sustainable fishing practices, hotel and fisher education and sensitization, establishment of diver/snorkeler user fees, the identification of alternatives for fishermen and determining carrying capacities for the dive sites within the MPAs.

As a signatory to the CBD, Jamaica is obligated to implement the Articles under the convention and such

has developed a National Strategy and Action Plan to identify the gaps and challenges that need to be


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addressed with respect to the conservation and management of the island’s biodiversity. This project aims

to deal with the rehabilitation of coral reef ecosystems in order to improve the biodiversity found in these

ecosystems.

Jamaica has also prepared an Environmental Action Plan (JANEAP) designed to highlight the major environmental problems facing the country as well as emphasise and establish the necessary corrective measures to be undertaken by the various government parties. The rehabilitation of coral reefs is listed as a priority area and as such the project aims to address this obligation as well. 8. Status of national operational focal point review date(s):

Submitted: Acknowledged: Endorsing:

9. Project rationale and objectives:

Coral reefs help to protect coastal and low-lying areas from tropical storms and hurricanes helping to prevent coastal erosion and storm damage. They may also be storehouses for chemical compounds that could prove to be effective pharmaceutical drugs for a wide variety of diseases. Coastal industries also heavily rely on coral reefs, particularly fishing and tourism industries. Artisanal and recreational fisheries rely on reefs to provide them with fish while the tourism industry, often depends on coral reefs for reef-related activities such as SCUBA diving and snorkeling. However, because Jamaica depends so heavily on the resources found in coral reefs they have been heavily impacted and degraded. Degraded coral reefs will have negative effects on all of these industries. Increased fishing pressure combined with destructive fishing practices such as spearfishing, dynamite and cyanide fishing, gill and seine nets, and pot fishing on top of the reef have resulted in a decrease in the diversity of fish found on the reef as well as a decrease in fish size. However, fishing pressure not only decreases the amount and sizes of fish found on the reef but can also be damaging to the reef itself as destructive fishing practices can cause the death of coral species, damaging the reef structure and may lead to coral bleaching due to increased stress. Sensitization and education of fisher folk on sustainable fishing practices will also have to be implemented. It would therefore be the aim of this project to eliminate destructive fishing practices and try to implement and maintain in their stead sustainable fishing practices. Dependence on reef-related tourism activities can also have disastrous effects on reef structure and reef composition. Large numbers of SCUBA divers and snorkelers can have negative effects on the reef due to finning, breaking of coral for souvenirs, anchor damage from boats, among others. The construction of hotels and other tourism venues can also lead to increases in sedimentation and nutrient-rich waters leading to eutrophication. It is therefore necessary to reduce the effects of tourism activities on the reef by determining carrying capacities, finding alternate venues as dive and snorkel sites and trying to limit the amount of nutrients entering the water. The installation and maintenance of mooring buoys will also be implemented as well as sensitization of both hotel staff and other members of the tourism industry. This project is of national significance because progress and insights derived from this project will be used to implement these methods on a wider-scale. Returning the coral reefs in Jamaica into viable, healthy ecosystems will have significant returns to industries in Jamaica as well as to the Jamaican environment.


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10. Expected outcomes:

The primary objective of the project is to rehabilitate the coral reefs found within the borders of three Marine Parks

Specific objectives to be attained from the project include the following:

1) To determine the present state of the coral reefs 2) Determine and reduce the level of pollution entering the environment 3) Limit and monitor tourism-related activities at coral reef sites. 4) Limit and monitor fisher activities at reef sites

11. Planned activities to achieve outcomes:

Objective 1: To determine the present state of the coral reefs

Activities:

§ Mapping and assessment of the coral reefs present

Success Indicators:

§ Determine the present state of the coral reefs § Changes in reef structure recorded as project progresses

Objective 2: Determine and reduce the level of pollution entering the environment

Activities:

§ Determine both point and non-point sources of water pollution § Place stricter measures/fines on those emitting effluent into the water § Implement measures to reduce sedimentation

Success Indicators:

§ Increase water quality in surrounding areas § Decreases in levels of macroalgae and other pollution indicators at reef sites


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Objective 3: Limit and monitor tourism-related activities at coral reef sites.

Activities:

§ Install and maintain mooring buoys at reef sites § Determine carrying capacity for divers/snorkellers § Find/implement alternative dive/snorkel sites for inexperienced divers § Tourist and tourism operator education and sensitization on reef issues § Implement user fees to maintain upkeep of mooring buoys § Enforcement of MPA rules

Success Indicator: § Decrease in amount of tourist and tourism related ac tivities that negatively impact reef should result

in improvement in reef structure Objective 4: Limit and monitor fisher activities at reef sites

Activities:

§ Implement sustainable fisheries legislation § Implement sustainable fishing practices on reef § Enforcement of MPA rules § Education/sensitization of fishers § Find alternative sources of income for fishers

Success Indicator:

§ Restoration of fish populations § Increase in coral cover § Decrease in macroalgal cover

INPUTS

Consultants will not be needed but the project will rely heavily on the expertise found within the National

Environment and Planning Agency, the Center for Marine Sciences and the Marine Protected Area

Management found in Jamaica

12. Stakeholders involved in project: National Environment and Planning Agency, Fisheries Division, University of West Indies, Maritime Authority, Maritime Police and Coast Guard, Council on Oceans and Coastal Zone, Negril Coral Reef Preservation Society, Montego Bay Marine Park Trust, Caribbean Area Coastal Management Foundation, Friends of the Sea, Portland Environmental Protection Agency, University of the West Indies (Center for Marine Sciences, Discovery Bay Marine Laboratory, Port Royal marine Laboratory), Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association, Tourism Products Development Company


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13. Information on project proposer: National Environmental & Planning Agency (NEPA) is a new Executive Agency that became operational on April1, 2001. NEPA represents a merger between the Natural Resources Conservation Authority (NRCA), Land Development uitlisation Commission (LDUC) and The Town Planning Division (TPD).

14. Information on proposed executing agency (if different from above):

15. Estimated budget (in US$ or local currency):

GEF Financing: Co-financing: Estimated Total Budget: Estimated Starting Date: Duration: 10 years


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United Nations Development Programme Global Environment Facility

Appendix IV. Strengthening and Developing of Environmental Management Tools for Effective Governance and to Address Institutional Strengthening in Jamaica in Response to Priority Areas of Action in the NCSA

National Environment and Planning Agency, United Nations Development

Programme

Strengthening and Developing of Environmental Management Tools for Effective Governance and to Address Institutional Strengthening in Jamaica in Response to

Priority Areas of Action in the NCSA

On Behalf of Signature Date Name/Title UNDP

PIOJ

Ministry of Land & Environment Forestry Department

In June 2004, Jamaica officially launched the National Capacity Self-Assessment Project (NCSA) aimed at conducting a comprehensive examination of the country’s capacity to execute actions under the three Rio conventions, as well as the need for, and benefits to be derived from a coordinated and cross-sectional approach to environmental activities in order to meet its national priorities and global commitments. Jamaica’s National Capacity Self Assessment identified the issue of governance as a key area to be addressed in strengthening the institutional framework for effective implementation of the three Rio Conventions

The Environmental Impact Assessment process is one of the cross-cutting tools under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). Effective use of this tool is a strong indicator of good governance in the area of environmental protection and sustainable use of natural resources. In recent times theEnvironmental Impact Assessment (EIA) framework and process, have been questioned with the view of having greater transparency and participation of stakeholders in the decision-making process. It has also been recognized that environmental issues are normally not incorporated in policy-making processes of the Government of Jamaica (GOJ). As a result, in 2001, the Cabinet Office commissioned a review of the integration of environmental considerations into the GOJ decision-making machinery as a first step in developing guidelines for Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of proposed government policies, plans and programmes (PPPs). Additionally, economic evaluation is a valuable tool for decision makers. Jamaica’s natural forests are an extremely valuable resource and no economic evaluations of this resource have been done. The will project will use these two tools in the strengthening of the framework for good governance. The project will involve using a particular geographic area such as the Cockpit country (protected area slated for bauxite mining) as a pilot to further develop these environmental management tools and to strengthen the organisations which need the tools enhance their organisation’s effectiveness and the decision making process.

Starting Date : October 2005 Expected End Date : February 2006

Total Budget: US$50,000 Executing Agency: National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA)


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Strengthening and Developing of Environmental Management Tools for Effective

Governance

Country name: Jamaica

Project Title: National Capacity Self Assessment: MSP

GEF Implementing Agency: UNDP

GEF Operational Focal Point: Miss Leonie Barnaby, Senior Director, Ministry of Land and Environment

National Executing Agency: National Environment and Planning Agency

GEF Financing (Already granted via PIMS 2763):

US $50,000

Government Cost Sharing: US $5000

Estimated Total Budget: US $55,000

Estimated Starting Date: October 2005

Expected end date: February 2006


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LIST OF ACRONYMS CBD Convention on Biological Diversity EIA Environmental Impact Assessment GEF Global Environment Facility GOJ Government of Jamaica IA The Implementing Agency JaNEAP Jamaica National Environmental Action Plan MLE Ministry of Land and Environment MSP Medium Size Project NCSA National Capacity Self Assessment

NEPA National Environment and Planning Agency NGO Non-Governmental Organisation NLP National Land Policy NSDS National Strategies for Sustainable Development PC Project Coordinator PIOJ Planning Institute of Jamaica PMU Project Management Unit PPPs Policies, plans and programmes PSC Project Steering Committee SD Sustainable Development SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment UN United Nations UNCED United Nations Conference on Environment and Development UNDP United Nations Development Programme UNEP United Nations Environmental Programme


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SECTION I 1. Rationale for GEF Involvement 1. The Government of Jamaica (GOJ) is requesting US$50,000 from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to assist in the preparation of a medium-sized project that promotes the strengthening of institutional capacity for effective governance in order to inform the decision making process and develop an integrated approach to natural resource management. 2. In June 2004, Jamaica officially launched the National Capacity Self-Assessment Project (NCSA) aimed at conducting a comprehensive examination of the country’s capacity to execute actions under the three Rio Conventions as well as the need for and benefits to be derived from a coordinated and cross-sectional approach to environmental activities in order to meet its national priorities and global commitments. 3. The project provided Jamaica with the opportunity to conduct a thorough self-assessment and analysis of national capacity needs priorities and constraints with respect to efforts at meeting global environmental management objectives. 4. Phase I of the comes to an end in September 2005 and one of the clear areas of action which was identified in the thematic and cross cutting reports was the need to coordinate and harmonize overlapping activities among the three Conventions and to help to ensure effective national measures to protect the global environment. 5. The outcome of the self-assessment acknowledged the synergies between the three Rio Conventions and the need for more integrated approaches in programming. 6. The Government of Jamaica also acknowledges the crucial link between global environmental protection, sustainable development and human welfare, and the negative impacts, particularly on the poor, of not addressing global environmental challenges. 2. Expected Goal, Objective and Outcomes of MSP and Relevance to Outcomes for the UNCBD, UNCCD and UNFCCC 7. The NCSA served to promote a national dialogue which brought together conventional focal points, multiple stakeholder groups and inter-ministerial organizations, and has served to foster collaboration across sectors and to collectively identify opportunities for integrated approaches to natural resources management. 8. The national dialogue has led to recognition that in order to more effectively achieve the country’s environmental obligations institutions must be strengthened and mechanisms found which would lead to coordinated action. These new approaches would be facilitated by the following: (i) tools which inform the use and management of the country’s natural resource base; (ii) wider participation of communities and key stakeholders in the decision making process; (iii) a clear and cohesive policy which is transparent and demands accountability; and (iv) an informed citizenry who can effectively participate in the decision making process. 9. The MSP project will contribute to the overall goal of maintaining and enhancing ecosystem health and integrity. The project will increase the focus on sustainable use of biodiversity, sustainable land


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management and adaptation, all of which are linked to productive activities and local communities, leading to greater emphasis on development concerns. 10. The immediate objectives of the project are to:

(i) Review the current EIA process and identify gaps particularly as it relates to a framework for effective governance.

(ii) Review the GOJ’s draft Strategic Environmental Assessment Policy with the view of

identifying steps for its effective implementation.

(iii) Review the use of valuation tools locally and internationally and assess their strengths and weaknesses.

(iv) Using the information from the review process to develop a project proposal which will result

in appropriate use of these tools, resulting in strengthening of the governance framework and relevant institutions.

3. Situation Analysis A. Global Context 11. The synergies among or between the three Rio Conventions are many. The GEF will support cross cutting projects that aim at increasing the resilience of ecosystems to climate change impacts, thereby improving natural resource management, increasing the long-term sustainability of project activities, and improving overall cost-effectiveness. 12. Adaptation to climate change offers a concrete opportunity to test the operational linkages between the regimes created by the Convention on Biodiversity (CBD), the UN Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the UN Convention on Desertification (UNCCD). 13. Climate change is among the key stress factors accelerating land degradation trends, especially in sub-Saharan Africa. There is a strong link between land degradation and poverty. There are also strong links with drought and water availability and watershed management. 14. The systematic mainstreaming of adaptation into sustainable land management initiatives will contribute to addressing in a comprehensive way the challenges associated with land degradation, including sustainable forest management, which touches upon the conservation and sustainable use of forest biodiversity, the production of timber and non-timber forest-products and biomass energy. 15. In summary, the GEF is seeking to increase the cost effectiveness and sustainability of its efforts by seeking more coherence within focal areas, greater synergies across its focal areas, and moving to integrated approaches to natural resource management as opportunities arise. 16. GEF is working with its Implementing Agencies to develop incentives, modalities and performance measures necessary for better integrating global environmental concerns in national policy making, coordination and sector planning.


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B. The National Capacity Self-Assessment Project 17. Jamaica’s National Capacity Self Assessment identified the issue of governance as a key area to be addressed in strengthening the institutional framework for effective implementation of the three Conventions. Some important findings were:


• the need for economic evaluation of environmental resources as a tool for decision making;



• the need for a thorough assessment of the impact of the implementation and non-implementation of the various environmental policies..

18. The Government of Jamaica has a well-defined Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) framework and process, in which the EIA methodology is applied primarily to specific actions or projects focusing on how the proposed action or project should take place, in order to minimize adverse environmental impacts. It is perhaps timely that the EIA process and procedures be examined for improvements in line with the principles of good governance. 19. In 2001, the Cabinet Office commissioned a review of the integration of environmental considerations into the GOJ decision-making machinery as a first step in developing guidelines for Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of proposed government policies, plans and programmes (PPPs).

20. The implementation of this SEA policy is expected to fulfill the following goals: q mainstreaming environmental considerations into the policy decision-making process of the

government; q assessment of the environmental impacts of all government PPPs; and q more informed decisions in support of development that is environmentally sustainable. 21. SEA should be part of an open and accountable decision-making process within the GOJ. The draft SEA policy has just been completed. The challenge now is to develop the procedures to make it functional. 22. A few resource valuations have been conducted previously, for example, of the Montego Bay Marine Park. However, the tool still needs further refinement to meet the needs of the environmental management agencies and decision makers in Jamaica. 4. Strategy 23. The Environmental Impact Assessment process and SEAs are two of the cross-cutting tools of relevance to the CBD, UNFCCC and the UNCCD. Effective use of these tools is a strong indicator of good governance in the area of environmental protection and sustainable use of natural resources.


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Additionally, economic evaluation is a valuable tool for decision makers. Jamaica’s natural forests are an extremely valuable resource and no economic evaluations of this resource have been done. The will project will use these tools in the strengthening of the framework for good governance. 24. The Cockpit country is being proposed as the geographic area (protected area slated for bauxite mining) to be used in a pilot to develop these tools. The Cockpit country is a large area in western Jamaica known for its natural and cultural importance. Within Jamaica endemism is particularly high in the Cockpit Country. Its vegetation is the largest and most intact limestone forest in Jamaica. The watershed is an important source of water to the growing towns and communities on the north western coast of the island. It is also an area increasingly under threat by poor agricultural practices. 25. The project will offer a unique opportunity through the development these tools to address issues of importance to all three conventions as well as proving solutions to strengthen institutions and the governance framework; issues which were identified for priority areas for action in the NCSA. 26. The project will involve the various stakeholders, the development of procedures, training and lessons learnt which will be used as the basis of mainstreaming the findings at the end of the pilot.

5. Management Arrangements A. Institutional 27. The PDF A project will be managed during the monitoring phase of the NCSA project and will be implemented by the NEPA using the existing project management framework. The Ministry of Land and Environment and the Planning Institute of Jamaica has endorsed the project . Political oversight for the project will be provided through the Natural Resources Sub-Committee of the Cabinet of Jamaica. The Minister will report to Cabinet on the progress of the project and will guide the approval of the Action Plan through that body.

28. The National Environment and Planning Agency, an arm of the Ministry of Land and the Environment, will execute the project in consultation with the NSCA Project Monitoring Committee (Annex 1) of the NCSA project and the UNDP. UNDP will serve as the Implementing Agency. The Monitoring Committee will comprise all the Rio Conventions Focal Points, the GEF Focal Point and representatives from the relevant supporting organizations to create a balanced representation from key government ministries.

B. Project Management Unit 29. The project will be conducted over 5 months. The NCSA PMU is situated in the Policy, Programs, and Projects Division of NEPA and will provide the necessary management oversight, office space, secretarial and administrative support as part of the GOJ’s contribution to the NCSA Project.

30. The PMU will be staffed by a Project Assistant (Annex 2) who is already in place. A specialist team of consultant(s) will be contracted (Annex 3) to carry out the project activities. The Director of Policy, Programs, and Projects Division of NEPA will supervise the work of the consultants on the project and


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be responsible for the preparation of the project proposal. Approval of the outputs will rest finally with the NCSA Monitoring Committee.

6. Monitoring and Evaluation 31. The Implementing Agency (IA): UNDP, (through its offices in Jamaica), will provide information on UNDP and GEF procedures, disburse funds, monitor and support project implementation, and provide other administrative and advisory services where necessary. The Regional Coordination Unit in Panama will provide technical backstopping and advice on GEF matters. The global Coordination Unit of the Portfolio project will facilitate the preparatory process and technically clear the MSP. UNDP-GEF HQ will provide technical clearance of the funding requests. 7. Total Cost of preparation 32. The cost of preparation is $55,000, of which $50,000 is requested from GEF and $5,000 will be provided by the Government of Jamaica. SECTION II—The Work plan and Budget I. Objectives

The immediate objectives of the project are to:

(i) Review the current EIA process and identify gaps particularly as it relates to a framework for effective governance.

(ii) Review the GOJ’s draft Strategic Environmental Assessment Policy with the view of

identifying steps to its effective implementation.

(iii) Review the use of resource valuation tools locally and internationally and make an assessment of strengths and weaknesses.

(iv) Using the information from the review process develop a project proposal which will result in

appropriate use of these tools resulting in strengthening of the governance framework and relevant institutions.

The project is expected to:

• Develop a project proposal for NSCA MSP Expedited funding to address Strengthening and Developing of Environmental Management Tools for Effective Governance and Institutional Strengthening in Jamaica in Response to Priority Areas of Action in the NCSA


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II. Tasks/Scope of Work The following outlines the tasks to be undertaken during the project. 1. Review current EIA process The Consultant will conduct the review in order to determine where the country is now and to better define the activities required in the MSP. 2. Review the GOJ’s draft Strategic Environmental Assessment Policy The Consultant will review the policy in an effort to understand the requirements for its implementation and include in the project proposal steps which will help to operationalise the policy and prepare technocrats for its effective utilisation 3. Review the use of resource valuation tools In an effort to learn from the experience of Jamaica to date, as well as other countries who have used valuation instruments in the decision making process, the consultant will review the work in this area. The review should include a range of countries including developed, countries in transition. and developing countries. The review should examine the institutional policy and legislation framework, the consultative process and decision-making mechanisms.

4. Develop Project Proposal Drafting of a proposal for the a medium sized project for Jamaica that address Strengthening and

Developing of Environmental Management Tools for Effective Governance and Institutional

Strengthening in Jamaica in Response to Priority Areas of Action in the NCSA. The proposal

development should be informed by the work done in 1 through 3.

III. Timeframe The timeframe is outline in Table1.


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Table 1. Project Schedule

ACTIVITY

1 2 3 4 5

1. Project & Initiation of the Planning Process

Assemble Monitoring Committee

Hire Consultant(s)

2. Tasks

Review EIA process

Review SEA Policy requirements

Review resource valuation instruments

3. Develop Project Proposal


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IV. Budget

Table 2. Activity Budget (US $)

ACTIVITY Funding (US$) GOV’T

in-kind

(US $)

TOTAL

(US $)

1. Consultancy Tasks

- Review EIA process

-Review SEA requirements

- Review resource valuation tools

-Development of project proposal

35,000.00

35,000.00

2. Report Preparation and Office Costs 3,000.00 3,000.00

3. Meetings, and consultations 4,000.00 4,000.00

4. Communication 2,000.00 2,000.00

5. Recruitment 1,000.00 1,000.00

6. PR/Public Education 5,000.00 5,000.00

7.Project Assistant 3,000.00 3,000.00

8. Sundries 2,000.00 2,000.00

TOTAL 55,000.00 5,000.00 50,000.00


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SIGNATURE PAGE

Country: Jamaica

UNDAF Outcome(s)/Indicator(s): _____________________________________ (Link to UNDAF outcome., If no UNDAF, leave blank)

Expected Outcome(s)/Indicator (s): _____________________________________ (Those that are linked to the project, are extracted from the CP _____________________________________ and are linked to the SRF/MYFF goal and service line)

Expected Output(s)/Indicator(s): _____________________________________ (Those that are linked to the project, are extracted from the CP _____________________________________ and are linked to the SRF/MYFF goal and service line)

Implementing partner: _________________________ (designated institution)

Other Partners: _________________________ (formerly implementing agencies )

_________________________

Agreed by (Government): _______________________________________________________ Agreed by (Implementing partner):_______________________________________________ Agreed by (UNDP):_____________________________________________________________

Total budget: ____________ Allocated resources: ____________ • Government

____________ • Regular

____________ • Other:(including in-kind

contributions) o Donor _________ o Donor _________ o Donor _________

Programme Period: 2002-2006 Programme Component: Environment & Energy_________ Project Title: NCSA: Sustainable Development addendum Project Code: 00013166 Project Duration: October 2005 to February 2006


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ANNEXES

Annex 1: Terms of Reference Monitoring Committee

Annex 2: Terms of Reference Project Assistant

Annex 3: Terms of Reference Consultant


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ANNEX 1.

TERMS OF REFERENCE PROJECT MONITORING COMMITTEE

BACKGROUND The National Capacity Self-Assessment (NCSA) process will provide Jamaica the opportunity to articulate a thorough self-assessment and analysis of national capacity needs, priorities and constraints facing national efforts to meet global environmental management objectives as set forth in the Rio conventions and the related international instruments.

The NCSA process will take into consideration and will evaluate the relevant activities and outputs of the National Strategy and Action Plan for Biological Diversity (NSAPBD), the National Communication on Climate Change (NCCC), and National Reports to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).

It is intended that the NCSA Project facilitate a cross-sectoral process of consultations, stocktaking, sequencing, and prioritization of capacity needs, especially for identifying obstacles that impede the country from fully meeting its objectives under the relevant conventions. It will be based on and linked with already existing programs and information exchange mechanisms relevant to capacity issues. The project output will strive to integrate the results and outputs of past and ongoing capacity assessment and building activities, by ensuring the involvement of a wide range of stakeholders in the NCSA implementation.

The NCSA will provide valuable strategic directions for the consolidation of environmental planning and management activities within the newly formed National Environment and Planning Agency. Specific objectives to be accomplished through the project implementation include:

a) To identify, confirm and review priority issues for action within the thematic areas of Biodiversity, Climate Change and Desertification;

b) To explore related capacity needs within and across the three thematic areas; c) To elaborate a national action plan that focuses on capacity building to address the global

environmental commitments; d) To provide a solid basis for the preparation of requests for future external funding and assistance; e) To link country action to the broader national environmental management and sustainable

development framework; and f) To monitor and evaluate the implementation of the action plan as part of a process of continuous

improvement.

The project is expected to produce the following outputs:

• Build national capacity to take issues related to the three Conventions into account in general planning and strategy formulation; • Find ways to coordinate and harmonize overlapping activities among the three Conventions and to help to ensure effective national measures to protect the global environment; • Prepare a comprehensive national action plan focused on capacity building that will identify overall goals, specific objectives to be achieved, follow-up projects, and courses of action; • Support the transition from this enabling activity to the actual implementation of identified follow up measures addressing loss in biodiversity, losses in soil fertility and climate change; • Enhance general domestic awareness and knowledge about the three Conventions and their inter-relationship; and • Strengthen dialogue, information exchange and cooperation among all relevant stakeholders including governmental, non-governmental, academic and private sectors. 1.0 ROLE The Project Monitoring Committee will in general provide technical guidance to the execution of the NCSA Action Plan over a twelve month period.


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Specifically the Committee will:

(i) Guide the work of the Project Assistant and Consultant(s) throughout the PDF A Project. (ii) Review and approve the work plan developed by the Consultant(s). (iii) Participate in the selection process and approve the appointment of the Consultant(s). (iv) Review, comment on and approve the reports generated from the project as required. (v) Monitor milestones and the timeliness of project deliverables. (vi) Ensure that extensive consultation with all relevant stakeholders (government and non-

government) takes place during the development of the project proposal. (vii) Recommend persons/organizations to be involved in the consultative process. (viii) Act as resource persons to the Consultant(s). (ix) Review in a timely manner and approve the Project Proposal. (x) Ensure that priority actions identified in the NCSA Report and Action Plan are brought to the

attention of local and national authorities for follow up. (xi) Monitor the implementation of the Action Plan.

ANNEX 2.

TERMS OF REFERENCE PROJECT ASSISTANT

1.0 PURPOSE The purpose of the Terms of Reference is to set out the responsibilities of the Administrative Assistant over the twelve month period of the consultancy for Phase II of the National Capacity Self Assessment Project.

2.0 BACKGROUND Jamaica has ratified the UN Conventions on Climate Change, Combating Desertification, and on Biological Diversity. The purpose of the National Capacity Self-Assessment Project (NCSA) is to provide Jamaica the opportunity to conduct a thorough self-assessment and analysis of national capacity needs, priorities and constraints with respect to its efforts at meeting global environmental management objectives. It will facilitate stakeholder consultation in a process of stocktaking, sequencing, identifying and prioritizing capacity needs.

The project is expected to produce the following outputs:

• Build national capacity to mainstream issues related to the three Conventions into general planning and strategy formulation;

• Find ways to coordinate and harmonize overlapping activities among the three Conventions and to help to ensure effective national measures to protect the global environment;

• Prepare a comprehensive national action plan focused on capacity building that will identify follow-up projects, overall goals, specific objectives to be achieved, and courses of action;

• Support the transition from this enabling activity to the implementation of identified follow up measures addressing loss in biodiversity, losses in soil fertility and the effects of climate change;

• Enhance general national awareness and knowledge about the three Conventions and their inter-relationship; and

• Strengthen dialogue, information exchange and cooperation among all relevant stakeholders including governmental, non-governmental, academic and private sectors.

2.0 OBJECTIVES OF THE CONSULTING WORK The Project Management Unit (PMU) will be housed within the National Environment and Planning Agency, which will provide overall guidance to the execution of the project. The PMU will be staffed by a Project Manager (who will also serve as the Lead Consultant), an Environmental Specialist (Natural Resource Management Specialist), and an Administrative Assistant. The two technical members of the PMU will also


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provide consulting expertise to the various activities and will be responsible for compiling the various consultants’ reports and preparing the NCSA Report and Action Plan.

The Administrative Assistant will report to the Project Manager and support the work of the PMU.

4.0 CHARACTERISTICS Duration: Fifteen months full time Qualifications: The candidate should be highly motivated and capable for working independently. Ability to work with a wide variety of people from governments, agencies and NGOs is highly desirable.

In addition the candidate should have:

• Administrative and typing (word processing) skills; • Computer skills, especially pertaining to Power Point, Word, Excel and Microsoft Projects; • Ability in liaising with relevant international institutions and organization; • Good knowledge of English – both oral and written; • Accounting and presentation skills would be an asset; and • At least three years of experience in a similar position.

5.0 TASKS The Project Assistant will support the efficient running of the PMU. Specifically, the Administrative Assistant will under the direction of the Director of Policy, Programs, and Projects Division of NEPA :

(i) Organize the office work, and the scheduling of meetings and workshops and the contacting of all institutions/experts.

(ii) Assist in the preparation for and follow-up to meetings and workshops. (iii) Assist the Director of Policy, Programs, and Projects Division of NEPA in the preparation

of contract documents, reports and materials for workshops and meetings. (iv) Assist the Project Manager in liaising with the relevant international institutions and

organizations, like UNDP/GEF, USAID, Climate Change Convention Secretariat, Biodiversity Convention Secretariat and Convention to Combat the Desertification Secretariat.

(v) Assist in the management and preparation of the project accounts. (vi) Maintain records of all administrative UN/UNDP regulations, policies and procedures relevant

to the project. (vii) Maintain files and accounting/financial reporting to the NEPA and the UNDP office. (viii) Record, prepare and distribute the minutes of the Monitoring Committee meetings. (ix) Perform any other duty, which may be assigned from time to time.

ANNEX 3.

TERMS OF REFERENCE PROJECT CONSULTANT

1.0 PURPOSE The purpose of the Terms of Reference is to set out the responsibilities of the Consultant over the five month period of the consultancy for project.


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2.0 BACKGROUND Jamaica is currently completing the National Capacity Self-Assessment Project (NCSA) which has provided Jamaica with the opportunity to conduct a thorough self-assessment and analysis of national capacity needs, priorities and constraints with respect to its efforts at meeting global environmental management objectives.

Jamaica’s National Capacity Self Assessment identified the issue of governance as a key area to be addressed in strengthening the institutional framework for effective implementation of the three Conventions. Some important findings were:


• the need for economic evaluation of environmental resources as a tool for decision making;



• the need for a thorough assessment of the impact of the implementation and non-implementation of the various environmental policies..

The Government of Jamaica has a well-defined Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) framework and process, in which the EIA methodology is applied primarily to specific actions or projects focusing on how the proposed action or project should take place, in order to minimize adverse environmental impacts. It is perhaps timely that the EIA process and procedures be examined for improvements in line with the pr inciples of good governance. In 2001, the Cabinet Office commissioned a review of the integration of environmental considerations into the GOJ decision-making machinery as a first step in developing guidelines for Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of proposed government policies, plans and programmes (PPPs).

The implementation of this SEA policy is expected to fulfill the following goals:

• mainstreaming environmental considerations into the policy decision-making process of the government;

• assessment of the environmental impacts of all government PPPs; and • more informed decisions in support of development that is environmentally sustainable.

SEA should be part of an open and accountable decision-making process within the GOJ. The draft SEA policy has just been completed. The challenge now is to develop the procedures to make it functional. A few resource valuations have been conducted previously, for example, of the Montego Bay Marine Park. However, the tool still needs further refinement to meet the needs of the environmental management agencies and decision makers in Jamaica. The Environmental Impact Assessment process and SEAs are two of the cross-cutting tools of relevance to the CBD, UNFCCC and the UNCCD. Effective use of these tools is a strong indicator of good governance in the area of environmental protection and sustainable use of natural resources. Additionally, economic evaluation is a valuable tool for decision makers. Jamaica’s natural forests are an extremely valuable resource and no economic evaluations of this resource have been done. The will project will use these tools in the strengthening of the framework for good governance.


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The Cockpit country is being proposed as the geographic area (protected area slated for bauxite mining) to be used in a pilot to develop these tools. The Cockpit country is a large area in western Jamaica known for its natural and cultural importance. Within Jamaica endemism is particularly high in the Cockpit Country. Its vegetation is the largest and most intact limestone forest in Jamaica. The watershed is an important source of water to the growing towns and communities on the north western coast of the island. It is also an area increasingly under threat by poor agricultural practices. The project will offer a unique opportunity through the development these tools to address issues of importance to all three conventions as well as proving solutions to strengthen institutions and the governance framework; issues which were identified for priority areas for action in the NCSA. The project will involve the various stakeholders, the development of procedures, training and lessons learnt which will be used as the basis of mainstreaming the findings at the end of the pilot. The PDF A project will be managed during the monitoring phase of the NCSA project and will be implemented by the NEPA using the existing project management framework. The Ministry of Land and Environment and the Planning Institute of Jamaica has endorsed the project . Political oversight for the project will be provided through the Natural Resources Sub-Committee of the Cabinet of Jamaica. The Minister will report to Cabinet on the progress of the project and will guide the approval of the Action Plan through that body. 3.0 OBJECTIVES OF THE CONSULTING WORK

(v) Review the current EIA process and identify gaps particularly as it relates to a framework for effective governance.

(vi) Review the GOJ’s draft Strategic Environmental Assessment Policy with the view of identifying

steps to its effective implementation.

(vii) Review the use of resource valuation tools locally and internationally and make an assessment of strengths and weaknesses.

(viii) Using the information from the review process develop a project proposal which will result in

appropriate use of these tools resulting in strengthening of the governance framework and relevant institutions.

4.0 CHARACTERISTICS Type of Consultancy: Individual Consultant Duration: five months Level of effort: 20 days Qualifications:

The candidate should be highly motivated and capable for working independently. Ability to work with a wide variety of people from governments, agencies, NGOs, and research institutions is essential. A good grasp of issues related to land degradation is essential.

In addition the consultant should possess:

• University degree in the environmental sciences at least to the Masters level; • Experience in facilitation and stakeholder consultation; • Experience in the preparation and technical review of national reports and relevant international and

national documentation; • Familiarity with relevant global conventions and agreements; • Knowledge of the experts and institutions involved in capacity development in the relevant areas;


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• Good working relations with both government and non-government entit ies; • Strong communication skills (verbal and written); and • Computer skills 5.0 TASKS The Consultant will, in consultation with the Project Steering Committee and the Director of Policy, Programs, and Projects Division of NEPA: 1. Review current EIA process in order to determine where the country is now and to better define the activities required in the MSP. 2. Review the GOJ’s draft Strategic Environmental Assessment Policy in an effort to understand the requirements for its implementation and include in the project proposal steps which will help to operationalise the policy and prepare technocrats for its effective utilisation 3. Review the use of resource valuation tools in an effort to learn from the experience of Jamaica to date, as well as other countries who have used valuation instruments in the decision making process. This should include a range of countries including developed, countries in transition. and developing countries. The review should examine the institutional policy and legislation framework, the consultative process and decision-making mechanisms. 4. Develop Project proposal for a medium sized project for Jamaica that address Strengthening and Developing of Environmental Management Tools for Effective Governance and Institutional Strengthening in Jamaica in Response to Priority Areas of Action in the NCSA. The proposal development should be informed by the work done in 1 through 3.

6.0 EXPECTED OUTPUTS The consultant will be expected to:

(i) Assist in facilitating any relevant workshops (ii) A list and copies of materials reviewed supplied to the PMU library. (iii) Develop a project proposal for NSCA MSP Expedited funding to address Strengthening and

Developing of Environmental Management Tools for Effective Governance and Institutional Strengthening in Jamaica in Response to Priority Areas of Action in the NCSA.


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NATIONAL CAPACITY SELF-ASSESSMENT REPORT and... · 2012. 2. 22. · Jamaica’s National Capacity...

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