Expert –Theoretical modelling and empirical assessment of “Smart Port” and “Green Port” solutions in Africa as levers for climate change mitigation/adaptation

Result of ServiceTo become more resilient against weather extremes, apply innovations that economic growth potential, while creating jobs. Work LocationHome-based Expected duration6 months Duties and ResponsibilitiesUN Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Its mandate is to coordinate the development of environmental policy consensus by keeping the global environment under review and bringing emerging issues to the attention of governments and the international community for action. UNEP's Climate Change Division works with international and national partners, providing technical assistance and capacity development for the implementation of environmental policy, and strengthening the environmental management capacity of developing countries and countries with economies in transition. To promote sustainable development and tackle the decline of nature, nature-based solutions (NBS) should be integrated into many more sectors than is happening at present. Nature and bioeconomy solutions have a significant opportunity to drive future sustainable growth. From fighting climate change through actions to improve water quality and reduce flood risks, to planting urban forests to sequester carbon, mitigate urban heat island effects, to wise deployment of solutions based on nature using bacteria in concrete to improve ‘self-healing’ of cracks in real estate and infrastructure, to using NBS to tackle water pollution, waste and damage to marine and coastal ecosystems from ports and other infrastructure, to using innovation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation and water use (e.g. methane-reducing feed additives such as 3-NOP and seaweed), to upgrade existing grey infrastructures, there is a need to see investment opportunities and innovation using NBS targeted to improve infrastructure and urban and peri-urban climate resilience. The consultant will report to the Programme management officer, Climate Finance Unit, with overall supervision to be carried out by the Chief, Climate Finance Unit Under the supervision of the Programme Management Officer, Climate Finance Unit the consultant will lead on the desk study with the following specific tasks: Phase I – Analysis of the interdependencies and duality of the dyadic energy-port relationship, theoretical modelling and empirical assessment of “Smart Port” and “Green Port” solutions as levers for climate change mitigation/adaptation, economic development and international cooperation of target countries. Activities • Theoretical modelling of the port as an energy hub, in order to enhance its potential role in optimising energy logistics flows, its contribution to the climate adaptation process and the strengthening of political and trade relations of the nations where they are located; • Development of an integrated theoretical framework on the port as a multifunctional strategic infrastructure, capable of operating simultaneously as a logistics hub, a platform for technological innovation (Smart Port) and an active player in climate change mitigation and nature based solutions (Green Port); • Theoretical modelling of the potential contribution of local port systems to energy production (especially from renewable sources), local energy balancing and climate mitigation/adaptation process with respect to their respective countries; • Mapping/estimation of energy consumption for the main energy vectors in the ports of the target African countries and assessment of the main expected trends in future use/consumption; • Analysis of currently used energy sources and low-carbon technologies already adopted or being implemented, with assessment of the level of sustainability and replicability potential on a national or regional scale; • Identification of low environmental impact technological solutions currently adopted by ports in target countries and those being designed/implemented. Phase II: Identification of priority intervention areas and development of three case studies. • Analysis of NbS solutions applicable to the port context, such as green barriers, phyto-purification systems and coastal protection techniques with native vegetation, enhancing NbS interventions that provide synergic integration with investments in renewable energy sources; • Assessment of environmental co-benefits, in terms of biodiversity protection, enhancement of climate resilience, and improvement of environmental quality (air and water), taking into consideration climate risk and vulnerability scenarios. Qualifications/special skillsA Master or PhD in law, economics, environmental science, natural resource management or a related study. At least 7 years of experience working on economic incentives, modeling, legal incentives, green technologies, sustainable transport and/or infrastructure solutions in different geographies – either in academia, with think tanks, non-governmental organisations or government agencies. An excellent network with government officials and relevant companies on the African continent to facilitate the research is desirable. Should be autonomous and computer literate in standard software applications; have excellent writing and communication skills; good analytical skills with an interest in the topic of sustainable infrastructure and green finance; have good interpersonal skills. It is essential that the chosen candidate can work in an independent manner to complete the given assignments. LanguagesFor this consulting position, fluency in oral and written English is required. Being able to speak, write and communicate in other UN languages is a distinct advantage. Additional InformationNot available. No FeeTHE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.