Background

Working in 170 countries and territories to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities and exclusion, UNDP plays a critical role in helping countries achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). One of its key priorities for the next 10 years is to support countries accelerate ambitious action on climate change. Climate change is the single greatest challenge humanity has ever faced, threatening water and food security, health, livelihoods, and the safety of billions of people together with a drastic negative impact on global ecosystem balance. UNDP’s ambitious “Climate Promise” supports over 120 countries to enhance their climate ambitions under the Paris Agreement, with a focus on deeper emissions reduction and resilience building. The second phase of the Climate Promise, launched in 2021 at COP26 in Glasgow, focuses on NDC implementation, climate advocacy, and long-term planning to ensure inclusive climate action at the speed and scale required to keep global temperature below 1.5°C. Achieving carbon neutrality in the second half of the century by all countries is a crucial requirement set by the Paris Agreement to avoid the irreversible global climate change. Realization of this goal involves work on global, national, and local levels, as well as participation of all relevant stakeholders – governments, business, MDBs, international organizations, NSOs. The path to carbon neutrality should be just and leaving no one behind, while empowering women, youth, indigenous people, and vulnerable groups of population. UNDP is well positioned to enable such work through cooperation on HQ, Regional and Country Offices levels, forming an interconnected system of knowledge exchange and expertise delivery enabling the cutting-edge climate policy advocacy, development, and implementation.

UNDP will work with partners to deliver the Climate Promise under the banner of the NDC Partnership – a coalition of countries and development partners that support governments in advancing their NDC. At COP 27, the NDC Partnership launched a Thematic Call on LT-LEDS to galvanize support on preparation, development and implementation of LT-LEDS as well as facilitate the alignment of NDC with LT-LEDS. UNDP as the largest implementing member of the Partnership is responding to this call by providing technical assistance and financial resources to interested countries.

In that regards, UNDP is putting together a pool of experts to support this ‘Climate Promise’. While the roster of experts will be utilized throughout 2023 to provide direct support to countries on Long Term Low Emission Development Strategies (LT-LEDS), it will be further maintained to provide a continued pool of expertise to countries for development, enhancement and implementation of their LT-LEDS, focusing on supporting implementation of actions and delivering results on the ground.

The Experts Roster for Rapid Response (ExpRes) is a recruitment and deployment mechanism which maintains pre-vetted consultants on a roster and contracts them quickly for country office support.

The ExpRes roster provides pre-selected and technically vetted consultants across 21 profiles and 79 sub-profiles to support the work of UNDP Country Offices/units and other UNDP partner agencies in the area of crisis prevention and recovery.

Duties and Responsibilities

To support the development and implementation of LT-LEDS and their alignment with NDCs, the NDC Partnership has defined the Thematic Call around three work streams. They are:

• Stream 1. Preparatory support.

Support under this work stream  aims at understanding the full scope of activities required to develop an LT-LEDS, to update and enhance the NDC, and align the two from the outset. This is  designed for countries that do not have an LT-LEDS and are interested in strengthening the planning of the upcoming NDC update and enhancement, with respect to LT-LEDS development. Such support might include development of roadmaps and methodologies for development and/or enhancement of the LT-LEDS and NDC.

• Stream 2. Development, update and ambition enhancement.

This workstream aims at supporting countries in the submission of the first iteration of LT-LEDS and the update/enhancement of NDC in alignment with LT-LEDS and the outcomes of UNFCCC 26th Conference of Parties.   Under this work stream, the support will be provided (but not limited to)to the development of new or enhanced LT-LEDS; development of new or enhanced NDC; 5-year milestones until 2050 to inform NDC updates; Scenarios that align with net-zero emissions by or around mid-century targets; Assessment of long-term climate risks, impacts, and resilience objectives.

• Stream 3. Promoting long-term transformation and action.

Under this workstream, the support is provided to countries to develop catalytic and paradigm-shifting policies, institutional frameworks and whole-of-society engagement that, going beyond current NDC ambition, kick-start deep climate resilient-building and a just transition to net zero emissions by, or around, mid-century.

The support is provided (but not limited) to development of legislation, regulatory instruments, and sectoral policy reform based on an existing LT-LEDS and beyond current NDC ambition; Paradigm-shifting awareness-raising campaigns, education and capacity building that facilitate economic and social transition; Analysis and development of labor market scenarios and social policy packages for a just transition.

The rostered experts can be deployed on demand as individual contractors for short-term assignments on a national, regional and international level. Specific terms of reference with assignment specific responsibilities and deliverables will be developed for each assignment.

1.    LT-LEDS development and coordination  

The consultant will lead the development of a low-emissions development strategy (LT-LEDS) to achieve a national net-zero emissions target through sectoral action. This will include the following generic functions:

• Lead the process of identifying LT-LEDS requirements;
• Determine, in collaboration with other relevant members of the LT-LEDS team, the appropriate methodology/ies;
• Support the other team members in determining the appropriate techniques and analyses for their activities.
• Provide guidance and technical inputs for the relevant deliverables/outputs and draft relevant entire and/or some related sections of the deliverables of the assignment;
• Define/design the method/model/tools and the scope of reports,
• Carry out quality assurance of the project outputs;
• Managing all LT-LEDS activities, following up on the plans, reflecting the planned, actual and unplanned business items to the plan, and ensuring that the project is carried out according to the adopted implementation methods;
• Coordinating, managing and monitoring the teams;
• Being responsible for the maintenance of LT-LEDS development process documentation and reporting systems;
• Planning, conducting and reporting periodic monitoring meetings;
• Monitoring implemented activities, as well as guiding and managing the LT-LEDS team’s timetable to meet expectations;
• Preparing status reports on LT-LEDS activities;
• Participating in all significant events and consultations involving stakeholders;
• Ensuring communication between UNDP, responsible government institutions and key stakeholders.

2.   Macro-economic modelling (socio-economic impact assessment)

The scope of work includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Define a methodology for the socio-economic analysis of key policy actions to be included for consideration in the LT-LEDS. The methodology will include the scope of the socio-economic analysis, the range of non-market benefits to be covered (e.g. health, social equity, biodiversity), the methods to be used to evaluate these benefits, and the way adaptation co-benefits will be quantified;
• With support from relevant members of the LT-LEDS team supporting sectoral consultations, including the mitigation and adaptation specialists, refine the preliminary assessment of the type of benefits and co-benefits expected from these actions;
• Develop a comprehensive analytic economic or socio-economic impact assessment model or frameworks including identification of existing analysis and remaining gaps, coordinating data gathering and analysis using the cost data provided by the LT-LEDS team, and integrating the results into a deliverable (report, presentation, flowchart referencing the report) used to inform sector groups on estimated socio-economic impacts of the proposed actions;
• Aggregate the results for the pathways recommended at the sector level into a national-level estimate of the socio-economic impacts of the actions;
• Design a capacity-building programme based on the assessment of country gaps and needs and provide training for national experts

3.  GHG modelling (economy-wide and sectoral)

The consultant will be responsible for developing a comprehensive GHG emissions model and tools that will simulate a reference scenario and test alternate mitigation options with different parameters and assumptions, extrapolating NDC modelling and providing pathways to net zero carbon emissions (climate neutrality). The scope of work includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Identify the methodology and provide scientific justification.
• Collect and develop all data, supporting information, and assumptions required to deliver the assignment with the support of sectoral experts.
• Develop the model and tools that will simulate the reference scenario, assuming that no existing or additional policies and measures are implemented from a chosen base year.
• Conduct GHG projections starting from the reference year to the LEDS-identified year and combine the assessment of plausible technical emission reduction opportunities for a specific country.
• Develop country-specific aligned scenarios for all sectors and economy-wide scenarios in line with the mitigation options. Study at least three scenarios: a scenario without measures (baseline/reference scenario), a scenario with existing measures, and a scenario with additional measures.
• Identify targets that will be enshrined in national policy, including legally binding economy-wide GHG emissions targets supported by specific sector-level GHG emission targets. Non-GHG targets will supplement these targets.
• Develop sectoral mitigation potentials for key sectors, assess the abatement potential and cost of different mitigation options, and compare them from the view of society and economic agents implementing these options.
• Prepare the GHG projections for each sector and the Final Modeling Report, which will be an assessment of the country’s GHG emission target, scenario assessment in terms of cost dimension, and policy requirements/suggestions.
• This component may also include a capacity-building programme in line with the identified country  gaps and needs

4.  Adaptation and resilience

The consultant will be responsible for assessing the alignment of the LT-LEDS with the national sustainable development goals, poverty eradication and economic growth strategies, analyzing the resilience-building potential and adaptation co-benefits of the identified LT-LEDS options, as well as identifying entry points for mainstreaming cross-cutting themes (e.g. gender, youth, private sector into the LT-LEDS process. Additionally, the consultant will support drafting a chapter on the resilience-building potential, mainstreaming cross-cutting themes, and socio-economic co-benefits of the LT-LEDS activities.

5.   Sectoral analysis and mainstreaming (energy; industrial processes; construction; agriculture, forestry and other land use; waste; transport)

Based on the NIRs, BURs and NCs and expert interviews, as well as state support programs, regulatory frameworks, and strategic plans related to sector development, the consultant will characterize emissions associated with the sector and describe the relative magnitude and implementation feasibility of mitigation opportunities by identifying the most considerable technical opportunities from the economic, social and environmental points of view, including potential benefits of implementing innovative technologies and practices.

The scope of work includes, but is not limited to, the following:

• Assess the economic efficiency of low-carbon production technologies and evaluate their impact on GDP growth or decline.
• Developing a mechanism, including the timeframe with detailed steps, for assisting in developing LT-LEDS sectoral components, setting targets and actions with long-term (e.g. 2030 and 2050) focus for the sector, and assisting in developing GHG scenarios for the sector. Additionally, the consultant will make projections of possible emission reductions under different scenarios and intensities of action implementation.
• Provide recommendations on how to integrate climate change mitigation into the development strategy of the sector, relevant programs, and strategic plans, and develop and provide final recommendations and guidance on policy framework development and tools for policymakers to support the mainstreaming process.

6.  Gender, social inclusion, and just transition

The consultant will analyze key climate sectors identified in LTS from gender, social inclusion, and just transition perspective, and support the integration of just transition principles, process, and practices into LTS development and implementation.

Additionally, the consultant will conduct a social inclusion analysis, evaluate cross-sectoral policies to protect people's rights, and analyze the potential impacts of the low-carbon transition on workers, communities, and industries. An analysis will also encompass linkages with SDGs and other socio-economic goals of the country. According to national circumstances, the overall societal and economic goals of the country should be reflected/referenced in the long-term objectives formulated under the LT-LEDS. The consultant will propose action-oriented recommendations for addressing identified gaps and provide capacity-building training.

7.  Climate investment and finance

The consultancy services shall include the following tasks:

• Conduct a comprehensive analysis of the current financial landscape and funding opportunities available to support the implementation of the LT-LEDS.
• Identify and evaluate potential funding sources, including public and private sector financing options, to support the implementation of the strategy and assess their feasibility and appropriateness.
• Develop a financing strategy for the implementation of the LT-LEDS, which includes recommendations on how to access and leverage available funding sources to achieve the strategy's goals.
• Provide technical assistance to relevant stakeholders in developing project proposals, investment plans, and financing strategies for specific mitigation and adaptation initiatives.
• Develop financial instruments and mechanisms, such as carbon pricing, green bonds, and climate risk insurance, to mobilize private sector investment in climate action.
• Identify opportunities for collaboration and partnerships with international climate finance institutions and donors to leverage additional funding and support for the implementation of the strategy.
• Provide capacity building and training to relevant stakeholders to enhance their knowledge and skills in climate investment and financing, and support the development of a sustainable and resilient low-carbon economy.
• Provide inputs to the LT-LEDS document related to investment and financing aspects, and ensure alignment with national and international climate finance frameworks.

Based on the assignment, tasks of the Experts may include, yet are not restricted to, the following functions:

• Development of decarbonization approach and methodologies
• Development of the LT-LEDs including formulation of strategies, targets, and relevant policies;
• LT-LEDs scenario modelling, including undertaking of socio-economic impact assessments, fiscal policy analysis, distributional analysis, cost-benefit analysis, and other macroeconomic and microeconomic modelling.
• Design, development, running of greenhouse gas mitigation scenarios and models;
• Development of adaptation targets and measures as part of the LTS
• Conduct sectoral analysis and mainstreaming of LT-LEDs and NDCs
• Development of MRV system to track and monitor LTS implementation progress
• Integrate gender, social, and just transition considerations into LTS vision, policies and other related policy and institutional frameworks
• Support the development and implementation of LT-LEDs financial/Investment strategy
• Other

Competencies

Functional competencies:

• Strategic vision, strong technical and analytical capabilities;
• Strong reporting and writing abilities;
• Ability to work in a team, develop synergies and establish effective working relations with government counterparts, donors, NGOs and other development partners;
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, resourcefulness, initiative, maturity of judgment, tact, and negotiating skills, and the ability to cope with situations which may pose conflict;
• Openness to change and ability to receive/integrate feedback;
• Ability to accommodate additional demands on short notice; 
• Ability to work under pressure and stressful situations;
• Ability to manage heavy workload and solve complex problems with minimum supervision.

Corporate competencies:

• Demonstrates integrity by modeling the UN’s values and ethical standards; 
• Promotes the vision, mission, and strategic goals of UNDP;
• Displays cultural, gender, religion, race, nationality and age sensitivity and adaptability;
• Treats all people fairly without favouritism.
• Fulfils all obligations to gender sensitivity and zero tolerance for sexual harassment.

Required Skills and Experience

Applicants can apply to one or more options from the above expert list. Successful applicants will join the UNDP’s roster of experts and be contacted based on arising country needs.

Applicants are requested to apply for the thematic area where they have the strongest expertise. It is recommended to also indicate expertise in other areas and themes that may apply in their CV.

Please indicate from below  which specific thematic profile you are applying for:

1.   LTS development and coordination expert

• Advanced university degree in climate change policy, environmental studies, development studies, international development, , or other closely related field
• At least 10 years of experience in climate change policy and strategy support at the national level, with specific focus on LTS design and implementation
• Demonstrated experience in conducting gap analysis and prioritization of actions in government’s national climate action policies and plans
• Demonstrated understanding of LT-LEDs and NDCs development process;
• Excellent organizational skills, especially for facilitating meetings and writing reports; 
• Demonstrated experience working with governments and international organizations in a developing country context
• Excellent writing, editing and oral communication skills in English is required.
• Fluency in other languages including French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian or Arabic will be required based on the language spoken in a country to support. Please indicate your language level in languages other than English.

2.   Macro-economic modelling and socio-economic impact assessment expert

• Advanced university degree in Economics, Development economics,  Environmental Economics, econometrics, or a closely related fields.
• At least one research experience in green economy, green jobs and climate change, including scenario development and employment and socio economic impact projections;
• At least 5 years’ experience in economic modelling (planning, development, operating and other) in development contexts
• Demonstrated experience in national data collection and using simulation tools and quantitative analysis methods
• Extensive experience in modelling and policy analysis using simulation tools and quantitative analysis methods in South East Asia with internationally recognized Academic Intuitions or Research Think Tank
• Experience in training and capacity building in economic modelling
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English. 
• Fluency in other languages including French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian or Arabic will be required based on the language spoken in a country to support. Please indicate your language level in languages other than English.

3.   GHG Modelling Expert

• Advanced university degree in Engineering, Climate Change, Environmental Policy, Development Economics, Environmental Economics, Environmental technology or other related fields 
• Minimum 5 years of specific experience in developing country-level greenhouse has mitigation scenarios
• Minimum 5 years of specific experience in areas related to economic and bottom-up energy modelling including design, development, running and analysis based on economic and energy models 
• Specific experience of working with climate change related model and developing scenarios and projections 
• Experience in delivering strategic low emissions development research and data analysis project
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English. 
• Fluency in other languages including French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian or Arabic will be required based on the language spoken in a country to support. Please indicate your language level in languages other than English.

4.    Adaptation and resilience expert

• Advanced university degree in climate change, social sciences, development studies, natural resource management, environment or related field demonstrably relevant to the position;
• At least 5 years of experience in providing technical support in resilience building, adaptation measures, climate change impacts on vulnerable groups, sustainable development goals, and gender.
• Experience in assessing resilience building potential.
• Experience in working with the UNFCCC mechanisms and guidelines, climate policy and governance frameworks is required.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English. 
• Fluency in other languages including French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian or Arabic will be required based on the language spoken in a country to support. Please indicate your language level in languages other than English.

5.   LTS Sectoral analysis expert (key sectors of focus:  Energy; Industrial processes; Construction; Agriculture, forestry and other land use; Waste; Transport )

• Advanced university degree in environmental sciences, development studies, international development, engineering, economics, natural resources management or other closely related field
• At least 5 years of experience conducting relevant sectoral analysis and prioritization of actions for LTS, NDCs, NAPs and/or climate change policies, plans and strategies.
• Demonstrated experience working with governments and international organizations in developing country context.
• Demonstrated strong technical knowledge of UNFCCC processes;
• Excellent writing, editing and oral communication skills in English is required.
• Fluency in other languages including French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian or Arabic will be required based on the language spoken in a country to support. Please indicate your language level in languages other than English.

6.  Gender, social inclusion, and just transition expert

• Master’s degree in any of the related areas: gender, climate change, environment, sustainable development. 
• Work experience in relevant technical areas for at least 5 years in international development, climate change/environment and gender; 
• Demonstrated understanding of just transition issues and key building blocks;
• Proven ability to undertake gender analysis, social and labour analysis, design relevant criteria and gender strategy; 
• Demonstrated understanding of issues related to climate change/environment, relevant strategies and policy documents, particularly LTS,
• Experience in designing and facilitating capacity building processes; 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English. 
• Fluency in other languages including French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian or Arabic will be required based on the language spoken in a country to support. Please indicate your language level in languages other than English.

7.  Climate investment and financing expert

• Advanced university degree in Business/Finance, Economics or related field
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in finance and investment according to the specific assignment (i.e., de-risking approach, development of investment plan, establishment of financing strategy or framework)
• Knowledge of climate finance from both public and private sources is preferred; 
• Demonstrated understanding of climate finance architecture and different financing options;
• Excellent organizational skills, especially for facilitating meetings and writing reports; 
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English. 
• Fluency in other languages including French, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian or Arabic will be required based on the language spoken in a country to support. Please indicate your language level in languages other than English.