ToRs Consultant – Technical Expert (Environmental Economist)

PROJECT BACKGROUND:

We are implementing a project titled “Gilgit-Baltistan Local Area Development Programme (Diamer) Region” in District Diamer. It focuses on enhancing ecosystem services and conservation practices, improving local livelihoods, and increasing climate resilience through community-based initiatives. The overall goal of the project is to contribute to poverty alleviation through climate-resilient sustainable development.

The key objectives of the project are:

1. Developing bio-physical ecosystem management practices to supply ecosystem services.
2. Developing governance capacity for ecosystem management, including climate sensitive gender mainstreaming.
3. Developing economic instruments to promote desired ecosystem results.
4. Promote renewable energy solutions for green growth and development.

The Expected Results (ERs) of the project are:

1. Improved biophysical ecosystem management practices through provision of ecosystem services.
2. Strengthened governance capacity for ecosystem management, with a focus on climate sensitive gender mainstreaming.
3. Enhanced economic instruments effectively promoting desired ecosystem outcomes.
4. Increased access to renewable energy solution delivering environmental, economic, and social benefits.

Objective of the Consultancy

Contributing to Objective III the consultant will analyse the existing market-based instruments and based on the findings S/He will design/develop market-based instruments, including environmental taxes and subsidies. The consultancy will involve research, stakeholder engagement, and policy recommendations to incorporate designed instruments into existing environmental regulations. The consultant will work closely with the project team and stakeholders to ensure the successful implementation of the designed instruments to support sustainable development goals.

Scope of Work and Expected Outputs/Deliverables

Main Activities

Research and analysis

• Evaluate the existing market-based instruments and their potential economic, environmental, and social impacts.
• Conduct a comparative analysis of best practices in similar regions or sectors.
• Assess the effectiveness of current economic instruments and environmental policies while identifying gaps and areas of improvement.

Development of market-based instruments

• Design market-based instruments such as environmental taxes and subsidies to internalize environmental costs and incentivize sustainable practices.
• Develop mechanisms for incorporation, implementation, and monitoring of these instruments.

Stakeholder engagement and capacity building

2. • Engage with government bodies, businesses, NGOs, and communities to promote adoption.
   • Facilitate workshops, seminars, and training sessions to build awareness and capacity.

Policy recommendations

2. • Provide evidence-based recommendations for integrating instruments into environmental and economic frameworks.
   • Draft comprehensive reports, policy briefs, and white papers highlighting benefits, challenges, and best practices

Documentation of outcomes

2. • Prepare final reports summarizing research findings, stakeholder consultations, and policy brief and recommendations.
   • Document lessons learned and best practices for future reference. 

Expected Outputs

• Report on the design and implementation of market-based instruments.
• Policy recommendations report for integration of environmental taxes and subsidies into existing regulations.
• Stakeholder engagement reports and workshop materials.
• Final project report detailing research findings, recommendations, and implementation strategies.

Methodology
The consultant will adopt an evidence-based and participatory approach, ensuring that local and stakeholder perspectives are considered. Activities will include:

• Desk review of relevant environmental and economic policies.
• Qualitative and quantitative research to assess the viability and impact of market-based instruments.
• Stakeholder consultations through interviews, focus groups, and workshops. 

Time Frame and Input

The consultancy will be conducted over 15 to 18 months.

Key Qualifications of Consultant

• Advanced degree in Environmental Science, Environmental Economics, Environmental Policy, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in environmental management, policy development, or market-based approaches.
• Strong understanding of ecosystem management and environmental impact assessments.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders in a multicultural environment.
• Excellent analytical, report-writing, and communication skills.

Deliverable & Reporting Requirements

The consultant will provide the following deliverables:

Reporting Requirements:

The consultant will report directly to the Director Programs & Partnerships, providing regular updates and ensuring alignment with project goals. Deliverables will include detailed reports, presentations, and documentation as outlined in the schedule above.