The project “Capacity development to catalyze actions and commitments at the national and global level to reduce plastic pollution including in the marine environment” aims to support countries most in need to undertake enabling activities that build their capacity to address plastic pollution, including in the marine environment, through the development and implementation of legal and collaborative frameworks and strategic planning.

The expected outcome of the project is strengthened country capacity for the identification of sources of plastic pollution and the development of action plans, and support for the development and implementation of an ambitious international legally binding instrument. 18 countries will be supported to identify sources of plastic pollution and establish and/or advance National Action Plans to combat plastic pollution, including in the marine environment.

Tasks and deliverables

The consultant is expected to contribute to capacity needs assessment for 18 countries in total, covering Africa, Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean and Small Island Developing States (SIDS), in particular to collect information on country-specific needs to improve plastic-related data aspects in the development of national action plans. The consultant is also expected to prepare a road map for capacity development on the identified needs and to support the development of knowledge and training materials on plastics-related data.

Deliverables and timeline

1. A review of preliminary findings of a needs assessment and methodology of conducting the survey, May 2023

2. In-depth needs assessment on plastics-related data for the 18 countries, July 2023

3. Inputs on plastics-related data provided for capacity development roadmaps for the 18 countries, August 2023

4. Inputs into knowledge and training materials to be used at project meetings on issues of plastics-related data, October 2023

The consultant will be required to work in close coordination with GRID-Arendal’s capacity development experts and the project manager as well as with at least two consultants undertaking similar assignments on areas of socio-economic aspects and technology / material science aspects.

No travel is envisaged.

Please note that contract award is contingent on confirmation of anticipated project funding.

More information in the attachments.