Environmental Policy Specialist at UNDP: A Comprehensive Analysis of Responsibilities, Impact, and Biodiversity Finance in Suriname
Environmental Policy Specialist – UNDP (Paramaribo, Suriname)
This full-time position at UNDP (United Nations Development Programme) is part of a global effort to support countries in developing Biodiversity Finance Plans (BFPs) under the GEF8 Umbrella Programme. The role involves analyzing Suriname’s environmental policies and financial mechanisms to improve funding for biodiversity conservation.
Key Responsibilitieshttp://Environmental Policy Specialist – UNDP, Paramaribo, Suriname
The Environmental Policy Specialist will primarily:@vacancyspaces.com
- Lead Policy and Institutional Review (PIR)
- Analyze biodiversity-related policies, legal frameworks, and financial mechanisms.
- Assess the impact of subsidies, incentives, and harmful financial flows on biodiversity.
- Identify stakeholders and institutions that influence biodiversity finance.
- Support Biodiversity Finance Planning
- Contribute to the Biodiversity Expenditure Review (BER) by mapping national biodiversity-related spending.
- Assist in assessing financial needs for biodiversity projects.
- Help develop funding solutions for conservation efforts.
- Contribute to the Biodiversity Finance Plan (BFP)
- Work with the Project Lead and Global BIOFIN Team to structure Suriname’s BFP.
- Provide policy recommendations for sustainable financing mechanisms.
- Support feasibility studies on biodiversity finance options.
- Stakeholder Engagement & Outreach
- Organize workshops, meetings, and presentations for government and partner organizations.
- Facilitate discussions to strengthen national biodiversity financing.
- Knowledge Sharing & Reporting
- Document policy analysis, decisions, and lessons learned.
- Prepare reports, case studies, and recommendations for global environmental conferences (e.g., CBD COP).
Qualifications & Skills Required
Education:
- Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Forestry, Engineering, Law, Public Administration, Business, Economics, or a related field (OR)
- Bachelor’s degree with 7 years of relevant experience (instead of 5 years required for Master’s holders).
Experience:
- Experience in environmental policy, public finance, and biodiversity conservation.
- Knowledge of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and global biodiversity finance trends.
- Familiarity with Suriname’s government policies and financial structures.
- Experience in workshops, stakeholder collaboration, and report writing.
- Understanding of international funding mechanisms (GEF, GCF, UN, WB, etc.).
Language Requirements:
- Fluency in Dutch (required).
- English proficiency is an asset.
Contract & Work Details
- Contract Type: National Personnel Service Agreement (NPSA-10)
- Duration: 1 Year (renewable based on performance).
- Location: Paramaribo, Suriname
- Mobility: Not required (no relocation).
Why This Role Matters?
This role is crucial in shaping Suriname’s biodiversity finance strategy, ensuring that funding for conservation projects is sustainable and effective. It also contributes to global climate action goals and helps Suriname align with the Montreal-Kunming Global Biodiversity Framework
Table of Contents
Environmental Policy Specialist – UNDP (Paramaribo, Suriname)
Introduction to UNDP and Its Mission
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is one of the leading global organizations working toward sustainable development and poverty eradication. With operations in more than 170 countries and territories, UNDP supports governments in implementing policies that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
One of UNDP’s core focus areas is environmental sustainability, which includes biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, and promoting nature-based solutions for economic development. The organization serves as a key partner for countries aiming to transition to a more sustainable, low-carbon, and nature-positive economy.
As part of this mission, UNDP’s Nature, Climate, and Energy (NCE) team collaborates with governments, financial institutions, and international organizations to create innovative solutions for environmental challenges. One of these initiatives is BIOFIN (Biodiversity Finance Initiative), which focuses on ensuring that countries can develop financial mechanisms to support their biodiversity goals.
The Environmental Policy Specialist role in Paramaribo, Suriname, falls under this framework, contributing to the implementation of a National Biodiversity Finance Plan (BFP) under the GEF8 Umbrella Programme. The GEF (Global Environment Facility) is a global partnership that provides financial resources for environmental projects worldwide, helping developing countries tackle biodiversity loss, climate change, and land degradation.
Overview of the Position
The Environmental Policy Specialist will be responsible for analyzing policy frameworks, institutional arrangements, and financial mechanisms related to biodiversity in Suriname. The main objective is to assess current financial flows, subsidies, and funding gaps that impact biodiversity conservation.
By conducting a Policy and Institutional Review (PIR) and contributing to the Biodiversity Finance Plan (BFP), the specialist will support the country in:
- Identifying harmful subsidies and financial policies that negatively impact biodiversity.
- Proposing new financial mechanisms to mobilize funds for conservation.
- Ensuring that Suriname’s biodiversity finance strategy aligns with global commitments such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).
- Strengthening the integration of biodiversity finance into national economic planning.
The role is crucial in ensuring that Suriname has a sustainable financial plan to support its biodiversity and environmental goals, helping the country transition to a greener and more resilient economy.
Key Responsibilities
1. Policy and Institutional Review (PIR) Leadership
One of the primary tasks of the Environmental Policy Specialist is to lead the Policy and Institutional Review (PIR). This involves:
- Analyzing the current policy landscape related to biodiversity, including legal frameworks, national strategies, and existing financial mechanisms.
- Identifying key stakeholders who influence biodiversity finance, such as government agencies, private sector entities, NGOs, and international donors.
- Assessing subsidies and financial incentives that either support or harm biodiversity. This includes examining subsidies for agriculture, forestry, and mining sectors that may lead to deforestation or habitat destruction.
- Reviewing existing biodiversity-related expenditures, both public and private, to understand the overall financial commitment to conservation.
- Compiling an inventory of current biodiversity financing mechanisms, such as grants, green bonds, public-private partnerships, and environmental taxes.
By completing this review, the specialist will provide key insights that will guide the development of the Biodiversity Finance Plan.
2. Contribution to the Biodiversity Expenditure Review (BER)
In addition to conducting the PIR, the specialist will contribute to the Biodiversity Expenditure Review (BER), which is another crucial step in understanding how financial resources are allocated for biodiversity.
The tasks in this area include:
- Identifying major biodiversity-related expenditures across different sectors (government, private sector, and international funding).
- Evaluating how effective these expenditures are in achieving biodiversity goals.
- Analyzing spending trends over time, identifying gaps or areas where funds are being underutilized.
- Working with finance experts to propose ways to reallocate or increase funding for biodiversity programs.
This review will provide a clear picture of current spending and help formulate strategies for more effective biodiversity finance planning.
3. Supporting the Biodiversity Finance Needs Assessment (FNA)
The Finance Needs Assessment (FNA) is an important step in determining how much money is required to implement Suriname’s biodiversity conservation strategies.
Key tasks in this area include:
- Estimating the financial resources needed to achieve national and international biodiversity goals.
- Identifying funding gaps and areas where additional financial resources are required.
- Providing recommendations on how to bridge these gaps through new financing solutions.
The findings from the FNA will directly influence how the country structures its Biodiversity Finance Plan.
4. Developing the Biodiversity Finance Plan (BFP)
The Biodiversity Finance Plan (BFP) is the end goal of this position. The Environmental Policy Specialist will support the Project Lead in:
- Summarizing key findings from the PIR, BER, and FNA.
- Developing innovative financial mechanisms for biodiversity conservation, such as:
- Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES)
- Green taxation policies
- Carbon credit programs
- Biodiversity-friendly investment schemes
- Advising on feasibility studies for proposed finance mechanisms.
- Ensuring the finance plan aligns with international biodiversity finance strategies, such as those outlined by the CBD (Convention on Biological Diversity).
The specialist will play a key role in designing a plan that will ensure long-term financial sustainability for Suriname’s biodiversity initiatives.
5. Stakeholder Engagement and Outreach
The role also includes engaging with government officials, NGOs, private sector entities, and donors to ensure broad support for the Biodiversity Finance Plan. This includes:
- Organizing and leading workshops, meetings, and presentations to discuss policy recommendations.
- Building partnerships with financial institutions, development agencies, and environmental organizations.
- Communicating findings and recommendations to key decision-makers.
Stakeholder collaboration is essential for the success of biodiversity finance strategies, and the specialist will be responsible for fostering these relationships.
6. Knowledge Management and Reporting
The Environmental Policy Specialist will also contribute to knowledge sharing and reporting by:
- Documenting lessons learned from the project.
- Preparing reports and case studies for submission to international environmental conferences.
- Providing recommendations on how to improve the BIOFIN methodology based on Suriname’s experience.
By capturing and sharing knowledge, the specialist will help strengthen biodiversity finance efforts globally.
Required Qualifications and Skills
Education Requirements
- Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Forestry, Law, Public Administration, Business, Economics, or related field (OR)
- Bachelor’s degree with 7 years of experience in environmental policy or finance.
Work Experience
- At least 5-7 years of experience in environmental policy, biodiversity conservation, or public finance.
- Experience working with government institutions, NGOs, and international organizations.
- Strong knowledge of financial mechanisms and policy frameworks related to biodiversity.
Technical Skills
- Ability to analyze policy and financial data.
- Strong report writing and presentation skills.
- Experience organizing workshops and stakeholder meetings.
Language Requirements
- Fluency in Dutch (required).
- Proficiency in English (preferred).
Conclusion
This role is critical in shaping Suriname’s environmental finance strategy. By developing a Biodiversity Finance Plan, the Environmental Policy Specialist will contribute to sustainable development, conservation, and climate resilience in the country.
Environmental Policy Specialist – A Comprehensive Analysis
1. Introduction to UNDP and Its Environmental Focus
1.1 Overview of UNDP
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is a leading global organization working on sustainable development, poverty reduction, governance, and environmental sustainability. UNDP operates in over 170 countries and territories, assisting governments in implementing policies and programs that align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Among UNDP’s many focus areas, environmental sustainability and climate action are critical components. The organization actively works with governments, financial institutions, international donors, and private sector stakeholders to develop climate adaptation strategies, biodiversity conservation programs, and sustainable financial mechanisms.
In response to growing global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and ecosystem degradation, UNDP’s Nature, Climate, and Energy (NCE) team provides strategic support to governments in implementing nature-based solutions and sustainable finance strategies.
1.2 UNDP’s Nature, Climate, and Energy (NCE) Portfolio
UNDP’s NCE portfolio is dedicated to promoting:
- Biodiversity conservation
- Sustainable land use and reforestation
- Climate resilience and adaptation
- Energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives
- Sustainable finance for environmental projects
One of the key initiatives within this framework is BIOFIN (Biodiversity Finance Initiative), a global program that helps countries develop sustainable financing mechanisms for biodiversity conservation. BIOFIN supports nations in:
- Analyzing existing biodiversity expenditures
- Identifying funding gaps in conservation efforts
- Developing new financial instruments for biodiversity protection
The Environmental Policy Specialist role in Paramaribo, Suriname is part of this broader strategy, particularly under the GEF8 Umbrella Programme, which provides funding for environmental projects worldwide. The specialist will play a critical role in shaping Suriname’s biodiversity finance strategy through the Biodiversity Finance Plan (BFP).
2. The Importance of Biodiversity Finance in Suriname
2.1 Suriname’s Unique Biodiversity
Suriname is one of the most forested countries in the world, with over 90% of its land covered by tropical rainforest. The country is home to an extraordinary range of flora and fauna, including many endemic and endangered species. Some key biodiversity features include:
- Rich Amazonian ecosystems
- Diverse marine and coastal habitats
- Unique indigenous and local community conservation practices
Despite its vast natural wealth, Suriname faces multiple environmental and financial challenges related to biodiversity conservation. The lack of sustainable financing for biodiversity programs is a major obstacle. This is where the Environmental Policy Specialist will play a critical role by developing new financing mechanisms that ensure long-term conservation efforts.
2.2 The Role of Biodiversity Finance in Sustainable Development
Biodiversity finance refers to the mobilization of financial resources to support conservation, sustainable land use, and ecosystem restoration. It involves:
- Public and private investments
- Environmental taxes and subsidies
- Green bonds and biodiversity-friendly investments
- Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES)
Without adequate biodiversity finance, conservation programs in Suriname may struggle due to:
- Limited government funding for protected areas
- Conflicting economic interests (e.g., mining, logging)
- Lack of financial incentives for sustainable practices
The Environmental Policy Specialist will help Suriname design financial strategies to secure funding for biodiversity conservation while aligning with international commitments, such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).
3. Key Responsibilities of the Environmental Policy Specialist
3.1 Policy and Institutional Review (PIR)
One of the first tasks of the specialist will be to conduct a thorough review of Suriname’s existing biodiversity policies and institutional frameworks. This includes:
- Assessing national laws, regulations, and policies that influence biodiversity finance
- Identifying government institutions and private entities involved in biodiversity conservation
- Analyzing existing financial mechanisms that support biodiversity projects
This review will help identify gaps and opportunities in Suriname’s biodiversity finance landscape.
3.2 Biodiversity Expenditure Review (BER)
The specialist will also contribute to the Biodiversity Expenditure Review (BER), which evaluates:
- How much money is currently being spent on biodiversity conservation
- Whether these expenditures are effective in achieving conservation goals
- Funding trends over the past 5–10 years
By understanding past and present biodiversity investments, the specialist can make data-driven recommendations for the Biodiversity Finance Plan.
3.3 Biodiversity Finance Needs Assessment (FNA)
Another key responsibility is conducting the Biodiversity Finance Needs Assessment (FNA) to estimate future financial requirements for biodiversity programs. The specialist will:
- Identify funding gaps and areas needing more investment
- Provide recommendations for increasing financial resources
- Work with stakeholders to design innovative finance mechanisms
3.4 Developing the Biodiversity Finance Plan (BFP)
The Biodiversity Finance Plan (BFP) will outline:
- Sustainable financing mechanisms (e.g., green taxes, conservation trust funds)
- Policy recommendations for increasing biodiversity funding
- Partnership strategies with financial institutions and international donors
This plan will serve as a roadmap for long-term biodiversity financing in Suriname.
3.5 Stakeholder Engagement and Capacity Building
The specialist will engage with:
- Government agencies (Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Finance)
- Private sector stakeholders (banks, tourism industry, mining companies)
- Local communities and indigenous groups
Capacity-building activities will include:
- Workshops and training programs for policymakers and financial experts
- Public awareness campaigns on biodiversity finance
- Partnership development with international donors
4. Qualifications and Skills Required
4.1 Educational Requirements
- Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Public Policy, Finance, Law, Economics, or related fields (or)
- Bachelor’s degree with 7+ years of experience in biodiversity finance
4.2 Work Experience
- 5–7 years of experience in environmental policy, biodiversity conservation, or finance
- Experience working with international organizations (e.g., UNDP, World Bank, GEF)
- Proven track record in policy analysis and finance strategy development
4.3 Technical Skills
- Strong analytical skills in policy and financial data
- Ability to develop financing mechanisms (e.g., environmental taxation, PES)
- Excellent report writing and presentation skills
4.4 Language Requirements
- Fluency in Dutch (required)
- Proficiency in English (preferred)
5. Expected Impact of the Role
The Environmental Policy Specialist will contribute to:
- Strengthening biodiversity financing in Suriname
- Enhancing international partnerships for conservation funding
- Supporting Suriname’s transition to a green economy
- Aligning national biodiversity policies with international commitments
This role will directly impact the country’s environmental sustainability by ensuring long-term financial mechanisms for conservation programs.
6. Conclusion
The Environmental Policy Specialist position at UNDP in Paramaribo, Suriname is a highly impactful role that will shape the country’s biodiversity finance strategy. Through policy analysis, financial planning, and stakeholder engagement, the specialist will help secure funding for conservation while promoting sustainable economic growth.
