Draft Road Map Aarhus Centres Green Economy

Aarhus Centres Road Map On Green Economy
and Resource Efficiency
Draft for Discussion at the 2016 Aarhus Centres Annual Meeting
21-23 November 2016
Vienna
This draft was prepared by Michal Musil, Integra Consulting Ltd.
The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the OSCE.
Aarhus Centres road map for Green Economy Prepared by Michal Musil
michal.musil@integracons.com
Contents
Green economy policy context: The Pan-European Strategic Framework for Greening the Economy .. 2
Aarhus Centres and green economy & resource efficiency .................................................................... 4
Rationale for Aarhus Centres involvement in the green economy: SWOT analysis .............................. 5
Thematic Road Map ................................................................................................................................ 7
Capacity-building recommendations .................................................................................................... 10
Annex: Indicative list of green economy actions for Aarhus Centres ................................................... 12
1
Green economy policy context: The Pan-European Strategic

Framework for Greening the Economy
Over the recent years, the debate on green economy has evolved and intensified, particularly with
the emergence of global challenges in the areas of climate, biodiversity depletion, energy prices and
water scarcity. Originally also seen as a useful policy approach to tackle the economic and financial
crisis that began in 20081, green economy today is understood as a strategic way of reaching a fairer
society living in a better environment. Three objectives underlay the green economy approach:
- improving resource efficiency,

- ensuring ecosystem resilience,
- enhancing social equity.2
Although many organisations now have a shared understanding of the concept, certain variability
exists in definitions used by various stakeholders.
An influential definition put forth by UNEP3 describes the green economy as - one that improves
human wellbeing and social equity while significantly reducing environmental risks and ecological
scarcities.
According to the European Environmental Agency the green economy is one that generates
increasing prosperity while maintaining the natural systems that sustain us.4
In the same context, the OECD applies the term Green Growth: Green growth means fostering
economic growth and development while ensuring that natural assets continue to provide the
resources and environmental services on which our well-being relies.5
A number of other organizations coined alternative definitions. Regardless of their nuances, they all
indicate that the process of greening economies shall be understood as a driver for sustainable
development. This was clearly affirmed when Green Economy in the context of sustainable
development and poverty eradication become one of the two of the Rio +20 Conference in 2012.
Namely, governments acknowledged that the green economy can help countries in their efforts to
achieve the commitments made at the Rio+20 Conference and the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) included in 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development6.
In the OSCE region, the green economy agenda enjoys attention of many governmental and non-
governmental stakeholders. An important driving force for the green economy development has
become the mechanism of the recent Environment for Europe (EfE) Ministerial Conferences .
1
European Environment Agency (2014). Resource efficient green economy and EU policies. p. 6.
2
European Environment Agency (2014). Resource efficient green economy and EU policies.
3
United Nations Environment Programme (2011). Towards a Green Economy: Pathways to Sustainable
Development and Poverty Eradication. Nairobi
4
EEA website. http://www.eea.europa.eu/themes/economy/intro
5
OECD (2012). Inclusive Green Growth: The future we want.
6
The Future we want: final document of the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development Rio+20,
Earth Summit 2012. 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, see
http://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/development-agenda/
2
At the Seventh EfE Ministerial Conference in Astana in 2011, the ministers of the UNECE region
committed to take the lead in the transition to a green economy.7 Following this, the UNECE
Committee on Environmental Policy mandated UNECE, jointly with the United Nations Environment
Programme (UNEP), OECD, EEA and other stakeholders working on green economy, prepared the
Pan-European Strategic Framework for Greening the Economy. It was subsequently approved by the
Eighth Environment for Europe Ministerial Conference (Batumi, Georgia, 810 June 2016). The aim of
the Strategic Framework is to guide the region in its transition to an inclusive green economy by 2030
and help countries in the development and implementation of their policies, strategies and plans for
greening the economy and achieving sustainable development. The Framework proposes a vision,
objectives and focus areas that build on the policy effort that followed from the Rio+20 Conference
outcomes and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as well as on the knowledge base and
good practices developed in the region. To support the implementation of the Strategic Framework,
the Batumi Initiative on Green Economy (BIG-E) for the period 20162030 has been introduced. The
BIG-E will comprise voluntary commitments by interested countries and organizations, both public
and private, in the form of green economy actions. The implementation and monitoring of the
Strategic Framework and the BIG-E initiative is facilitated namely by the UNECE Committee on
Environmental Policy and the Environment for Europe ministerial process, and supported by the
Green Growth Knowledge Platform.
The Strategic Framework identifies nine integrated focus areas aiming at achieving three objectives8:
Objective I. Reduced environmental risks and ecological scarcities
Focus area 1. Improve sustainable use of natural capital

Focus area 2. Enhance internalization of externalities that cause loss or damage to
natural capital
Focus area 3. Enhance ecological infrastructure
Objective II. Enhanced economic progress
Focus area 4. Shift consumer behaviours towards sustainable consumption patterns

Focus area 5. Develop clean physical capital for sustainable production patterns
Focus area 6. Promote green and fair trade
Objective III. Improved human well-being and social equity
Focus area 7. Increase green and decent jobs, while developing the necessary human
capital
Focus area 8. Improve access to services, healthy living and well-being
Focus area 9. Promote public participation and education for sustainable
development
7
UNECE Report of the Seventh Environment for Europe Ministerial Conference. Declaration: Save water,
grow green! By Ministers of the region of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe. Astana,
Kazakhstan 2123 September 2011.
8
Economic Commission for Europe (2016): Pan-European Strategic Framework for Greening the Economy.
Eighth Environment for Europe Ministerial Conference Batumi, Georgia 810 June 2016.
ECE/BATUMI.CONF/2016/6
3
Taking into the consideration these recent developments, the Aarhus Centres Road Map on Green
Economy and Resource Efficiency follows the key objectives and focus areas set forth by the Pan-
European Strategic Framework for Greening the Economy (2016). This shall allow planning the
Aarhus Centres green economy-related activities in an efficient manner respecting the broadly
accepted understanding to the content of the green economy agenda in the region. Thus, the
Strategic Framework will serve as a key point of reference for the Road Map, which further identifies
potential actions where the Aarhus Centres can meaningfully contribute to the general effort.
Aarhus Centres and green economy & resource efficiency

The debate on green economy often tends to focus on governmental initiatives in the area of macro-
economic policies and environmental regulation, green technology development (eco-innovations),
role of businesses and financial institutions, and issues related to the measuring of progress in
greening of the economy (sustainability or green economy indicators). An equally important
dimension is the role of the general public, or potentially affected communities. Despite
acknowledgement of the need for the bottom-up initiatives and public engagement in the process of
greening the economy, the effective involvement of the public remains often a challenge.
Deficiencies in general (environmental) awareness, and lack of effective mechanisms for participation
of public in the decision-making can cause sub-optimal effects in the implementation of (green)
economy policies. The lack of ownership, uncertainties about actual benefits and costs for different
stakeholder groups can lead to resistance or opposition to the expert proposals and eventually to the
failure of the plan or project to deliver expected results.
Aarhus Centres, established to provide members of the public with practical resources to exercise
their environmental rights under the Aarhus Convention, are excellently positioned for addressing
this risk. The already existing experience of some Aarhus Centres with green economy-related
projects attests that actions for green economy at community-level, initiatives for increasing the
citizens awareness, and facilitating informed decision-making can make a significant difference.
Thus, for example, Armenian Aarhus Centres served as platform to introduce a new initiative
supporting communities in participation in decision-making on investments focused on addressing
local environmental problems. The project supported by the EU, UNDP and GEF assisted to create
sustainable financial resources for green projects (through the establishment of a revolving fund),
focusing on climate change adaptation, energy savings, nature protection, clean industry, etc.9
Armenian Aarhus Centres further also participated in raising awareness within the project
Improvement of living conditions through the agro-biodiversity conservation and use in rural
communities of Armenia, funded by the GEF with the support of the United Nations Environment
Programme.
In Albania, the Aarhus Centres were involved in a project supported by the OSCE Presence in Albania
on good governance and transparency in the extractive industries, based on the EITI principles.
Aarhus Centres organized public events for the discussion of the EITI national reports with extractive
industries, government authorities and civil society.
9
For furhter details see http://aarhus.am/?page_id=12542&lang=en
4
Similarly focused activities concerning the topic of the rational use of natural resources, compliance
with laws in environmental protection sphere in mining regions were conducted by the Arhus Centre
in Osh, Kyrgyzstan.
In Ukraine, the Arhus Centre recently hosted number of events and trainings related to the
"Greening Economies in the European Union's Eastern Neighbourhood" (EaP GREEN) programme.
In Turkmenistan, the experts of the national Aarhus Centre have participated in preparation of a
number of strategic government documents related to green economy and resource efficiency, in
particular in the area of climate change adaptation.
Examples above illustrate some typical ways the Arhus Centres can contribute to the green economy
agenda and can serve as an inspiration for formulating the objectives for expanding the role of the
Aarhus Centres in the process of greening the economy.
Rationale for Aarhus Centres involvement in the green economy:

SWOT analysis
In order to identify key areas for efficient and effective engagement of Arhus Centres in activities
related to the green economy, a basic analysis of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats
was conducted. The identification of key Strengths and Weaknesses focuses on the internal
conditions of the whole network, while it acknowledges that levels of available expertise,
specialization or institutional and technical capacity vary significantly among individual Centres. In
contrast, the evaluation of important Opportunities and Threats focus on external factors that
cannot be influenced by the activity of the Aarhus Centres.
Strengths Weaknesses
Established presence in the countries of Understanding by stakeholders of the role,

South Eastern Europe, Eastern Europe, the function, services and activities of the
South Caucasus and Central Asia. Centres is not always optimal.
Close interaction with the communities and In some cases lack of legal identity is a
bridging role between communities and problem.
authorities, governmental agencies and in Ensuring the sustainability of Centres is a
some cases business sector actors challenge
Reputation as important platform for Capacity (both expert and institutional
addressing environment and security weight) of individual Centres for developing
related challenges. activities in green economy varies
Proven capacity in Aarhus Convention- significantly.
related agenda. Limited cooperation with
Very diverse portfolio of relevant business/corporate stakeholders
experience (namely if the whole network is Recognition of the Aarhus Centres
considered) relevance/potential for the participation in
Focus on selected locally relevant or preparation of governmental policies
country specific issues (e.g. greening of related to green economy is inconsistent
mining industry, organic agriculture, etc.) across countries
5
Focus on environmental awareness raising,

information dissemination, and public
participation in decision-making
Opportunities Threats
The Pan-European Strategic Framework for Macroeconomic development might

Greening the Economy and the Batumi sideline the whole green economy agenda
Initiative on Green Economy provide strong and reduce funding opportunities
incentives to stakeholders (including Competition of other agencies and NGOs
governments) to seek assistance from active in the green economy area can
Aarhus Centres create inefficiencies instead of synergies
Green economy agenda pursued by
international financial institutions (e.g.
EBRD, ABD, GEF) along with the focus on
Climate Change mitigation and adaptation
policies and related investment create
funding opportunities for relevant Aarhus
Centres actions
Considering the results of the SWOT analysis above and taking into account the existing record of
individual Aarhus Centres relevant experience (sectoral, or in terms of types of activities), a set of
potential actions is put forth in two components:
1) Thematic road map: indicating green economy relevant activities where the Aarhus Centres can
utilize their strengths and opportunities, where they can capitalize on the accumulated experience
and/or potential for transboundary exchange of information, good practices and cooperation.
2) Capacity-building recommendations: aiming at addressing identified internal (institutional)

weaknesses and adaptation to potential external threats.
6
Thematic Road Map

The road map put forth key focus areas of activity, which shall allow for Aarhus Centres to develop
their own green economy agenda in a systematic manner. As a basis for the formulation of the focus
areas served the comprehensive List of possible green economy actions prepared in the framework
of the 2016 Batumi EfE Conference10. In line with the structure used by the Batumi Initiative on
Green Economy11, the suggested actions are clustered according to their scope, i.e. economy-wide
and sectorial. In addition, since cities also play a key role in the green transition, the road map
suggests actions that can help make them smarter, more resource efficient and inclusive. Priority
sectors for greening the economy in the region include: agriculture, forestry, fishing; energy and
mining; manufacturing; transport; water; waste; tourism; and housing, buildings and construction. At
the same time, the actions are sorted according to the following types: Legal, regulatory and policy
instruments, economic and fiscal instruments, and information, education-based, capacity-building
and voluntary instruments.
In the process of preparation of the road map, an Indicative list of green economy actions for Aarhus
Centres was derived from the original Batumi List of possible green economy actions, in order to
identify suitable focus areas or niches where the Aarhus Centres can effectively engage in the green
economy actions. The Indicative list of green economy actions for Aarhus Centres constitutes the
Annex of the road map and is intended as a source of inspiration and basis for the follow-up
discussions on the operationalization of the road map.
The overview of the indicative list of green economy actions for Aarhus Centres presented in the
Annex represents a wide Aarhus Centres network perspective, while individual Aarhus Centres might
want to pursue relatively narrow set of actions relevant to their particular context and capacities.
However, should the green economy agenda become a full-fledged part of the portfolio of the
Aarhus Centres network, certain key activities should be undertaken in coordinated manner, allowing
for joint progress and effective contribution to the green economy development in the region.
In this respect, the following activities could be regarded as of key importance:
Building a knowledge base and raise awareness
The Aarhus Centres are excellently positioned for collection and sharing of success stories
and experiences across the region. Recording and presenting positive examples could be
performed systematically. In this respect, the following specific recommendations are
presented:
o Prepare a comprehensive overview of the green economy relevant information (e.g.

information on initiatives, conferences, case examples, new relevant legislation, etc.)
and update it on regular basis. The information could be visibly presented in the
Aarhus Centres website so that it is easily accessible to the interest public.
10
UNECE (2016) List of possible green economy actions. Eighth Environment for Europe
Ministerial Conference Batumi, Georgia 810 June 2016. ECE/BATUMI.CONF/2016/INF/21
https://www.unece.org/fileadmin/DAM/env/documents/2016/ece/ece.batumi.conf.2016.inf.21.e.pdf
11
Annex to the Pan-European Strategic Framework for Greening the Economy (ECE, 2016).
7
o Establish (or join existing) thematic platforms/networks for sharing information on

green economy. The platform can be an entirely web-based or can have another
form. It should bring together different stakeholders and potential project partners
interested in the green economy. The basic purpose will be to map capacities and
potential for engagement in the green economy activities and facilitate exchange of
information. Subsequently, it can be basis for organizing further awareness raising
activities such as thematic seminars or workshops, e.g. invite R&D institutions, and
businesses to present their solutions to relevant existing problems (e.g. local
transport issues, erosion of agriculture soils, communal waste recycling, etc.).
o Prepare a newsletter on green economy issues.
o Record successful green-economy related projects or initiatives and engage in
exchange of these examples with other Aarhus Centres. Keep references and
executive summary for each such case to gradually expand the archive.
o When good practice examples (e.g. a successful green-economy related project) are
identified, invite community leaders and planners to observe successful solutions
from different localities.
Monitor progress on greening the economy
In line with its key mission, the Aarhus Centres could collect and present information on the
green economy progress and wherever such information is not systematically available, they
could initiate and advocate establishment and operationalization of such system. In this
respect, the following is recommended:
o Present by usual means all information on the existence of national green economy
policies and relevant objectives and targets (if any). In particular, present information
on the national Batumi initiative voluntary commitments (if any).
o Establish monitoring or present results of the existing monitoring of the progress
towards the identified objectives and commitments (e.g. in the form of annual leaflet
or brochure). You may ask responsible authorities and political leaders to contribute
to this presentation.
o Advocate introduction of key sustainable development and green economy-relevant
indicators in the state statistics (presented in official publications) and publish key
monitoring results.
o Facilitate development of the context-appropriate methodology or selection of
relevant sustainability indicators and their adoption by the official authorities (e.g. by
organizing workshops of experts and policy makers).
Contribute to the policy-making
If conditions permit, a direct involvement of an Aarhus Centre in the process of development

and implementation of national green economy policies/strategies/ is a desirable role for
Aarhus Centres. If successfully played, it yields valuable experience and magnify capacity of
the respective Aarhus Centre to engage in other activities relevant for the transition towards
the green economy. In this respect, the following is recommended:
o Follow any initiative(s) by governmental structures related to preparation of a

strategic document related to the green economy and offer capacities to facilitate
8
process of preparation of such policy/strategy/plan, namely the relevant stakeholder

dialogue. If such process does not exist, try to raise this issue with reference to the
international developments and commitments (e.g. Batumi outcomes).
o Collect suggestions and proposals for policy actions, legislative changes or
investment from NGOs, communities and other stakeholders, and voice them in the
process of green economy policy making.
o Initiate/Contribute to development of green economy strategies at the
local/municipal/regional level. It does not necessarily need to have character of full-
fledged strategic planning documents, it can be a for example a statement or
declaration made by the responsible administrations formulating principles or
commitments for greening the local community. Such material can be used for
awareness raising purposes as well as for improving accountability of individual
stakeholders.
o Facilitate feedback from the stakeholders affected by the new environmental (or
other) legislation to the policy makers/legislators, e.g. via organizing thematic
workshops with participation of sectorial business representatives and governmental
experts.
Employ tools designed in the context of implementation of the Aarhus and Espoo
conventions
The core agendas of Aarhus Centres can be used for promotion of green economy objectives
and raising awareness through stakeholder participation and quality control mechanisms of
the relevant formal procedures of the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The implementation of the Pollutant Release and
Transfer Registers (PRTRs)12 constitutes another important opportunity for stimulation of the
popular demand for the greening of the economy. In this context the following is
recommended:
o The Aarhus Centres could continue their role of important enablers of the
implementation of the EIA and SEA through support and facilitation of the public
involvement in the processes in line with the national legislation.
o Initiate or support development of the centralized and publicly accessible on-line
database containing all environmental assessment reports together with the related
plans and programmes (in case of SEA) and awarded permits (for projects
undergoing EIA).
o Promote the idea that the existing officially endorsed green economy objectives and
commitments shall be included in the assessment reference framework in case of
SEA for any sectorial or other plan or program. Encourage NGOs and communities to
demand this aspect to be addressed by the experts conducting the strategic
environmental assessments and results presented in the SEA reports.
o Raise awareness about the existence and state of implementation of the Pollutant
Release and Transfer Registers (PRTRs). Facilitate discussion on approaches to
interpretation and utilization of the generated data for the public debate.
12
The Kyiv Protocol on Pollutant Release and Transfer Registers http://www.unece.org/env/pp/prtr.html
9
Capacity-building recommendations
As indicated above, in addition to the identification of key thematic areas for actions related to the
green economy, a set of steps is presented in order to identify the key actions needed to strengthen
the performance, capacities and impact of Aarhus Centres. In this respect, as a key reference
document can be regarded the OSCE 2009 guidance for the strategic orientation, setup and activities
of the OSCE supported Aarhus Centres.13 The institutional-, status- and sustainability-related issues
shall be addressed in line with the official OSCE guidance. From the perspective of efficient
engagement in the green economy development the following steps shall be taken:
Improving/cultivating relationships with the business/corporate stakeholders.
Business is of key importance for achieving sustainable development and capacity to reach
out to business actors can be an important asset, which in turn can help Aarhus Centre to
engage in preparation of green economy related projects or policies. It is therefore
recommended to:
o Identify agendas that are attractive for business sector and where facilitation of the
dialogue between business and other stakeholders is of key importance. Chose
industry relevant to your particular context, e.g. mining or forestry or other, and
develop a platform for addressing concerns of potentially affected communities as
well as investors (e.g. in the context of the introduction of the Extractive Industry
Transparency Initiative (EITI) or a green forestry certification scheme).
o Together with relevant authorities, help to develop training and capacity building
activities for the business community on new opportunities and risks associated with
the new (environmental) legislation. If successfully executed, in addition to apparent
benefits for the beneficiaries, the Aarhus Centres can in turn establish valuable
contacts and earn recognition useful for activities related to green economy policy
development.
o Facilitate presentation of case examples of commercially successful green solutions
or products to the local/national business community in suitable manner (e.g.
through participation or hosting a green technology oriented trade fair or show, or
through development of a competition award for a green enterprise or product).
o Develop activities towards improving efficiency of the environmental assessment
process (namely EIA). Facilitate feedback from project developers and EIA experts to
the responsible authorities and assist them in communication of their legitimate
concerns in a transparent and fair manner (e.g. through workshops with
representatives of important industries and environmental experts and the like).
Advocate the development of EIA quality assurance mechanisms (e.g. through
facilitation of the transfer of experience from other countries).
Develop expert capacity in multiple fields and key relevant sectors.
Whether through maintaining an in-house expertise or ensuring availability of specific

external expert, the capacity to timely mobilize relevant experts is important for maintaining
13
OSCE (2009). Aarhus Centres Guidelines. Vienna, May 2009.
10
the credibility of an Aarhus Centre as an important actor and facilitator of green economy
related progress. It is therefore recommended to:
o Establish a registry/database of experts and institutions/organizations with proven

capacity to participate in green economy relevant projects that can be approached
with request for consultation or with an offer to participate in specific projects.
o Share knowledge and experience with other Aarhus Centres in order to support each
other with expert knowledge and use synergie
o s
11
Annex: Indicative list of green economy actions for Aarhus Centres

The most relevant actions (due to proximity with the core agenda of Aarhus Centres, or relevance for most of the target countries contexts, or strong
potential for a replication of an individual success story, or utilization of specific experience in other countries) is in this working draft highlighted in red.
For those actions indicative suggestions for suitable activities for Aarhus Centres are also presented.
The P/L column indicates actions where the Arhus Centres could take leading position (L) in development of related activities, while for other actions the
Arhus Centres will more likely participate (P) as partners.
The names of countries in the last column indicate recent experience or an interest in developing projects relevant to a particular action expressed by
Aarhus Centres.
Overarching actions
Focus area/ Type of Action Sector Relevant SDG P/L Suggestions for indicative types of activities Potential/experience
Action for Aarhus Centres Reference/source
- Possible partners
Overarching actions
Develop green economy Legal/Regulatory Economy 2,4,6,7,8,9,10, P Ukraine, Turkmenistan, Moldova
policies/strategies/action- /Policy -wide 11,12
plans at national and/or 13,14,15,16,1
local level to support 7
multiple sustainable
development benefits
Monitor progress on Legal/Regulatory Economy 2,4,6,7,8, L - Monitoring of the implementation of the All target countries based on experience
greening the economy /Policy -wide 9,10,11,12, national Batumi initiative voluntary from Aarhus conventions pillar one agenda
through indicators and data 13,14,15,17 commitments (where commitments were
collection and develop made)
national targets, including - Collect and present information on other Development of systematic monitoring based
those that reflect socio- national objectives and commitments on
environmental co-benefits towards the green economy (e.g. stated - UN Indicators for SDGs (forthcoming)
in official strategic documents). - OECD Green Growth Indicators
12
- Advocate introduction of key sustainable - Shared Environmental Information System

development and green economy- (SEIS)
relevant indicators in the state statistics - Espoo Convention and SEA Protocol
and publish key monitoring results.
Establish and/or strengthen Legal/Regulatory Economy 16,17, P Facilitation of stakeholders dialogue, provide Ukraine, Albania, Moldova
inter-ministerial and multi- /Policy -wide technical support (e.g. venue), Initiate or
stakeholders working propose establishing of such body where it All target countries where Aarhus centres
groups/task forces on green has not yet been set up. have successfully established working
economy contacts at ministerial level
- Aarhus Convention and Protocol on PRTRs

- Republic of Moldova Green Economy
Working Group
Increase awareness and Information/ Economy 7,9, L Establish thematic platform/network for Albania, Ukraine, Kyrgyzstan
build political consensus Education- -wide 12, sharing information on the green economy All target countries
around the benefits of based/Capacity and invite R&D institutions, and businesses to
greening the economy by building/ present their solutions of relevant existing - Green growth knowledge platform (GGKP)
promoting R&D, developing Voluntary problems (e.g. local transport, erosion of - UNECE Innovation Performance Review
information platforms and agriculture soils, communal waste recycling, Programme
conducting information etc.). - Inter-Agency task team on Science,
campaigns, as well as using Prepare quarterly newsletter on green Technology and Innovation for Sustainable
existing international economy issues. Development
platforms Invite community leaders and planners to - Republic of Moldova - Green Development
observe successful solutions on other
localities
Develop and conduct sound Information/ Economy 17, P Requires robust expertise and strong political
evidence-based assessment Education- -wide commitment
to identify opportunities based/Capacity
and priority actions for building/ - UNECE and OECD EPRs
greening the economy Voluntary - UNEP Green Economy Assessment Manual
- UNECE Innovation Performance Review
13
Programme
- Nexus assessments with a methodology
developed under the UNECE Water
Convention
- Espoo Convention and SEA Protocol
- Global SCP Clearinghouse
Objective I. Reduced environmental risks and ecological scarcities
Focus area/ Type of Action Sector Relevant SDG Potential/experience

Action Reference/source
1. Improve sustainable use
of natural capital
Promote the protection, Legal/Regulatory Economy 15 P - Awareness-raising campaigns, trainings Armenia, Bosnia and Hercegovina
restoration and sustainable /Policy -wide
management of terrestrial - Belarus - Strategy for Conservation and
and inland ecosystems and Rational (Sustainable) Use of Peatlands
their services, including - EU Natura 2000
peatlands
Enhance monitoring and Legal/Regulatory Economy 6, 14,15 P Collect suggestions from environmental All target countries strong link to Arh.
enforcement efforts and /Policy -wide professionals for improvement of the state Centers core agenda (UNECE Aarhus
introduce regulations to environmental monitoring (e.g. what useful Convention incl. PRTRs Protocol)
prevent accidental pollution data is missing or are monitored
insufficiently) Kyrgyzstan, Armenia
Facilitate discussion with environmental
protection authorities and business - SEIS
sectorial representatives about - UNECE Water Convention
shortcomings and deficiencies of existing - UNECE Air Convention
environmental reporting. - UNECE Industrial Accidents Convention
Initiate local-level monitoring of
environmental quality based on local
concerns and facilitate dialogue with
14
stakeholders relevant for its

implementation
Promote innovative Information/ Economy 15 P - Organize stakeholder dialogue Kyrgyzstan, Armenia
partnerships for conserving Education- -wide
wildlife through shared based/Capacity - London Conference Declaration on Illegal
management building/ Wildlife Trade
responsibilities (e.g. Voluntary
investments in community
conservancies, public-
private partnerships,
revenue-sharing agreements
and other areas such as
sustainable agriculture)
Promote transboundary Information/ Economy 14,15 P Collect and publish information about Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan
aspects of ecosystem Education- -wide activities and results of the transboundary
services through joint based/Capacity dialogue and cooperation in your region. - UNECE Water Convention - Caspian Sea
bodies for transboundary building/ programme
cooperation and regional Voluntary - EU Water Framework Directive
economic integration - OSPAR
organizations (e.g. river and - HELCOM
lake transboundary
commissions)
Promote harmonised Legal/Regulatory Forestry 15 Assist with introduction and promotion of Potential in most of the target countries
labelling and certification /Policy the certification system and facilitate
systems to ensure forest dialogue about its application (e.g. by - EU Forest Law Enforcement, governance and
products meet sustainability means of public procurement on the local trade
standards level) - Rovaniemi Action Plan for the forest sector in
a Green Economy
- Belarus Forest Certification
- Consumer Information programme of 10YFP
2. Enhance internalization
of externalities that cause
loss or damage to natural
15
capital
Internalise the economic Information, Economy 15 L - Awareness-raising, participation in Kyrgyzstan
and other values of education-based, -wide decision-making processes, information
biodiversity in decision- capacity building material Requires robust expertise and strong political
making and voluntary commitment
- The European Union's Biodiversity Action Plan

- AICHI target 2
- UN SEEA 2012
3. Enhance ecological
infrastructure
Emphasize the role of the Legal/Regulatory Economy 2,,11,13, P Identify key types of disaster risks in your Albania
green economy for disaster /Policy -wide 14,15 region (e.g. floods, land slides, overheating
risk reduction , across all of urban spaces) and facilitate a debate on Potential in all target countries
sectors (e.g. prevention of possible ways of addresing them.
natural disturbances - Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction
through sustainable natural
resources extraction)
Conduct mapping and Information, Economy 14, 15 P Albania
assessment of ecosystem education-based, -wide
and their services capacity building - EU Green Infrastructure Strategy
and voluntary
Develop and implement Information, Economy 14, 15 L Systematically collect case examples and Albania, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan
pilot projects to education-based, -wide present them in targeted manner (e.g.
demonstrate the economic capacity building directly to relevant community leaders, - EU Green Infrastructure Strategy
value and viability of and voluntary planners or enterpreneurs). Identify funding - EU LIFE+ Programme and Structural
ecological/green opportunities and inform potentially Programme
infrastructure compared to interested project developers.
a conventional approach
Incorporate green Legal/Regulatory Cities 6,11,14, P - Consultation, roundtables, participation Armenia
infrastructure options into /Policy 15 in decision-making
city planning (e.g. by using - Good Practice Guidance for green
sustainable infrastructure infrastructure and biodiversity - The Wildlife
16
standards, simbio-city Trust

concepts, green capital)
- UN Charter on Sustainable Housing SEA
Protocol
- Belarus reference about simbio-city
- 10YFP Sustainable Buildings and
Construction programme
Promote sustainable Legal/Regulatory Tourism 12 P Assist with introduction and promotion of Potential in all target countries
tourism practices, including /Policy the certification system and facilitate
certification, to preserve dialogue about its application (e.g. carry out - Global Code of Ethics for Tourism
and enhance ecological information campaign for the tourism - Bar Harbor Declaration on Ecotourism in the
infrastructure and the value services operators) U.S.
of ecosystem and - 10YFP Sustainable Tourism programme
biodiversity
Introduce training Information, Water 6 P - Support training programmes Armenia, Kyrgyzstan
programmes on the education-based,
conservation and capacity building - UNECE Convention on the Protection and Use
restoration of water-related and voluntary of Transboundary Watercourses and
ecosystems with functions International Lakes
of ecological infrastructure - Astana Water Action
as part of local and national - UNECE/WHO Protocol on Water and Health
action programmes
Objective II. Enhanced economic progress
4. Shift consumer
behaviours towards more
sustainable consumption
patterns
Develop capacity for Economic/Fiscal Economy 12 L Collect and present examples of established Potential in all target countries
Sustainable Public -wide and successful systems of the green public
Procurement and establish procurement. Carry out presentations and - Hungary SPP partnership & voluntary
17
information platforms/help trainings for the staff of relevant agreement

desk authorities. - 10YFP Sustainable Public Procurement
programme
Strengthen social research, Information, Economy 12 P - Awareness-raising campaigns Armenia
education and awareness education-based, -wide Potential in all target countries
programs promoting capacity building
sustainable lifestyles as well and voluntary - 10 YFP Sustainable Lifestyle programme
as practices involving - Sweden Consumer Awareness Programme
different sectors
Develop and promote Information, Economy 12 P Collect and present examples of established Bosnia and Hercegovina, Ukraine
environmental product education-based, -wide and successful systems of the Potential in all target countries
information and sound capacity building environmental product information and
labelling for sustainable and voluntary labelling for sustainable goods and services. - Germany: Label Blauer Engel (Blue Angel)
goods and services Invite representatives of sucessful Environmental information on product -The
businesess to present experience with Swiss Green Economy Action Plan
adoption of a green label to the local - EU EcoLabel
business community. - UNEP EcoLabelling
- 10YFP Consumer Information programme
Support awareness raising Information, Agricultu 12 L - Awareness-raising campaigns Armenia, Bosnia and Hercegovina, Kyrgyzstan
for sustainable food education-based, re Potential in all target countries
consumption capacity building
and voluntary - OECD - Promoting Sustainable Consumption
- 10YFP Consumer Information programme
Support and promote Smart Legal/Regulatory Cities 11 P - Participate in decision-making, organize Bosnia and Herzegovina
City concepts towards /Policy public consultations
inclusion, resource and Economic and - UNECE - The Geneva UN Charter on
energy efficiency and fiscal instruments Sustainable Housing
resilience to climate change - UNEP - Cities and Climate Change: Enhancing
and disasters mitigation and adaptation action
- The Netherlands-Energy Agreement for
Sustainable Growth
18
Develop and promote Legal/Regulatory Waste 11,12 P - Awareness-raising Armenia

mechanisms of collection of /Policy Potential in all target countries
reusable and recyclable Information,
wastes and materials education-based, - Switzerland Waste disposal methods
(including deposit system) capacity building - OECD Household Behaviour
- The Netherlands Waste to Resources
- EU Circular economy package EU
Develop and promote safe Information, Water 6 P - Outreach and training Armenia
water reuse activities for education-based,
commercial/industrial/hous capacity building - OECD Greening Household Behaviour
eholds users encouraging and voluntary
the use of differentiated
types of water
5. Develop clean physical
capital for sustainable
production patterns
Implement Resource and Legal/Regulatory Economy 12 P - Support the implementation through Armenia
Energy Efficiency programs, /Policy -wide public outreach and awareness-raising
addressing the sustainable - Dutch Green Growth Strategy
use of raw materials, - EU circular economy package (2015)
including secondary raw - The road map for Resource Efficiency Europe
materials, in production of
goods
Establish policies and Legal/Regulatory Economy 8, 12 P - Participate in the decision-making Armenia
programs that support the /Policy -wide process
development and diffusion - From Transition to Transformation
of green innovation and Sustainable and Inclusive Development in
environmentally-sound Europe and Central Asia
technologies - European Federation of Agencies and Regions
for the Environment - Innovative Financing
Schemes in Local and Regional Energy
Efficiency Policies
19
Introduce regulations on Legal/Regulatory Economy 6,9, P Continue promotion of the good practices Albania
Strategic Environmental /Policy -wide 14,15 and facilitate debate on quality assurance
Assessment and mechanisms for the SEA and EIA processes - Espoo Convention and SEA Protocol
Environmental Impact in your national/local context. Facilitate - UN Habitat - Planning for Climate Change
Assessment dialogue between the responsible
authorities, planners and professionals
preparing the EIA/SEA reports.
Continue facilitating public engagement in
the processes.
Propose considering evaluation of effect of
planned actions from the point of view of
green economy objectives in relevant
assessment cases.
Establish well-functioning Legal/Regulatory Economy 3,8,9, P Raise awareness about the existence of the Armenia, Kyrgyzstan
and user-friendly national /Policy -wide 12,16 PRTR and types of information that it
Pollutant Release and provides. Identify potentially concerned - Protocol on PRTRs; its relevant guidance
Transfer Registers (PRTRs) stakeholders (e.g. local NGOs) and spread material
the word about this new tool.
Monitor functioning of the registers and
confront its performance with examples of
good practice from other countries
Provide the market with Information, Economy 8,9 L - Collect relevant information Kyrgyzstan
credible information on the education-based, -wide
performance of eco capacity building Potential in all target countries, but no
technologies, promoting and voluntary established/easily adaptable approach at hand
their market penetration instruments
- EU Eco-Innovation
Offer training programs on Information, Agricultu 2,12 L - Organize trainings and provide Turkmenistan
green farming practices for education-based, re information
farmers capacity building - Green Economy - A Guidance Manual For
and voluntary Green Economy Policy Assessment
instruments - FAO - Policy Support Guidelines for the
Promotion of Sustainable Production
20
Intensification and Ecosystem Services
Require and audit Legal/regulatory/ Mining 12 P Promote establishment of a centralized Armenia, Kyrgyzstan
Environmental Impact Policy / online database accessible to public Potential exists in other target countries as well
Assessments in the mining Information, presenting EIA and SEA documentations and strong link to the core Arhus agenda
license granting process and education-based, associated awarded permits.
publish all assessments and capacity building - Aarhus Convention
follow up on an online and voluntary - Espoo Convention EIA / Protocol SEA
database - ICCM Sustainable Development Framework
Establish a framework for Legal/regulatory/ Mining 12 P - Advise and advocacy Kyrgyzstan

due diligence and Policy /
stakeholder engagement in Information, -OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Meaningful
the extractive sector. education-based, Stakeholder Engagement in the extractive
capacity building sector
and voluntary
Ensure better governance Information, Mining 12 P Initiate/facilitate introduction of Albania, Kyrgyzstan
and more transparency in education-based, internationally recognized standards for Potential exists in other target countries as well
the extractive sector (e.g. by capacity building extractive industry performance (e.g. EITI). strong link to the core Arhus agenda
Implementing the Extractive and voluntary Facilitate dialogue between state and non-
Industry Transparency state stakeholders on implementation - EITI Standard
Initiative (EITI)) steps. - OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible
Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-
Affected and High-Risk Areas
- GRI
6. Promote green and fair

trade
Promote consumer Information, Economy 12 L Promote awareness about benefits (social Armenia
awareness concerning education-based, -wide and environmental) of buying local Potential exists in all target countries
sustainable goods and capacity building products.
services, and the promotion and voluntary Pesent examples of a corporate - EU Motion for a European Parliament
of fair and ethical trade to responsibility initiatives and practices. Resolution on Fair Trade and Development
reinforce responsible - European Commissions: A Stronger Role of
21
business practices by the Private Sector in Achieving Inclusive and

companies Sustainable Growth in Developing Countries
Action Plan on Green Economy Switzerland
- 10YFP Consumer Information Programme
Objective III. Improved human well-being and social equity

7. Increase green and
decent jobs, while
developing the necessary
human capital
Collaborate with Information, Economy 4,8 L - Bring different stakeholders together Kyrgyzstan
representative trade unions education-based, -wide to discuss these issues, and train Potential exists in most of the target countries,
and employers' capacity building them requires specific expertiese and recognition
organizations to reconcile and voluntary from potential stakeholders
the protection of jobs with instruments
the protection of the - ILO: Green Jobs: Towards decent work in a
environment and to ensure sustainable, low-carbon world
a just transition from
brown to green jobs
Promote innovative Information, Economy 8.9 L - Organize roundtables with different Armenia, Turkmenistan
partnerships at the local education-based, -wide stakeholders
level for greening economic capacity building - London Conference Declaration on Illegal
sectors through shared and voluntary Wildlife Trade
management instruments - UN REDD+
responsibilities such as - UNEP Payment for Ecosystems Services
community conservancies, - Payment for Ecosystems Services (PES) under
public private partnerships, the UNECE Water Convention
revenue sharing agreements - EU Action Plan for the Circular Economy (Dec
with the goal of generating 2015)
22
green jobs for indigenous

and local communities
8. Improve access to
services, healthy living and
well-being
Ensure transparency and Legal/Regulatory Economy 8,9,12,16 L Assist local communities with making full Albania, Armenia, Bosnia and Hercegovina,
effective participation of /Policy -wide use of the potential of environmental Kyrgyzstan
public, including women and assessment processes (SEA/EIA). Facilitate Potential in all target countries close link to
marginalised groups, in involvement of the relevant groups from the core Aarhus agenda
developing and the early stage of the planning process
implementing policies, plans and enable them to voice their concerns - Aarhus Convention and Protocol on PRTRs
and programmes related to in the dialogue with experts, planners and (their relevant guidance material and
green economy at national authorities. recommendations)
and/or local levels - IIED - Securing social justice in green
economies
Promote mobility by Information, Cities/Tr 3,12 L - Public awareness campaigns Bosnia and Hercegovina
encouraging walking, cycling education-based, ansporta Potential in all target countries
and mass transit use in capacity building tion
cities, which reduces energy and voluntary - UNECE - The Geneva UN Charter on
use and emissions and instruments Sustainable Housing
allows greater - THE PEP
transportation choice for - SEA Protocol
citizens and workers, - France: Vlib System Paris
including disadvantaged
groups
9. Promote public
participation, and
education for sustainable
development (ESD)
Ensure access to adequate Legal/regulatory/ Economy 4,12,16 L Initiate discussion about representation of Potential in all target countries close link to
tools and materials for Policy -wide the sustainable development in the the core Aarhus agenda
education for sustainable educational curricula. Collect and present
development examples of tools and materials from - UNECE Strategy for ESD
23
different countries and discuss - Report to UNECE and UNESCO on Indicators of

opportunities for their applicability in your Education for Sustainable Development
context with relevant stakeholders
Organize information and educational
activities with schoolchildren
Green schools (e.g. by Information, Economy 12, 16 P Albania
providing sustainable food, education-based, -wide
waste reduction, improving capacity building - Republic of Moldova - Green Development
energy and water efficiency, and voluntary - Pedibus. Walking
using public instruments
transport/cycling)
Promote broader public Information, Economy 16 L Initiate community planning exercises and Albania, Armenia, Bosnia and Hercegovina,
awareness and education-based, -wide support participation in the planning Kyrgyzstan
participation, whereby capacity building processes at the local/municipal level. Potential in all target countries
citizens contribute to the and voluntary Organize stakeholder dialogues and public
creation of sustainable instruments consultations. Support transparency via - UNECE SEA Protocol
communities providing space for presenting proposed - ESD
solutions before their approval. - UNESCO - Education for sustainable
Propose facilitation of architectonic Development
competitions for public investment - Germany - National Climate Initiative
projects (e.g. rehabilitation of a defunct - 10YFP Sustainable Lifestyles and Education
industrial area in the city). Programme
Advocate application of strategic
environmental assessment process for the
strategic documents prepared by
authorities.
Identify and share Information, Economy 16 L Engage in the collection and exchange of Albania, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan
information, good practices, education-based, -wide examples of good practices/case studies Potential in all target countries
and learning resources capacity building representing the green economy
focused on green economy and voluntary transition and publish them in tailor-made - GGKP
instruments manner to reach out different stakeholder - The Netherlands
groups - 10YFP Sustainable Lifestyles and Education
Program
24
Foster conservation, use, Information, Economy 16 L Kyrgyzstan

and promotion of education-based, -wide
knowledge of indigenous capacity building - UNECE Strategy for ESD
peoples, as well as local and and voluntary - Report to UNECE and UNESCO on Indicators of
traditional knowledge instruments Education for Sustainable Development
- 10YFP Sustainable Lifestyles and Education
Programme
25
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Draft Road Map Aarhus Centres Green Economy

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Draft Road Map Aarhus Centres Green Economy

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Aarhus Centres Road Map On Green Economy

and Resource Efficiency

Draft for Discussion at the 2016 Aarhus Centres Annual Meeting

21-23 November 2016

This draft was prepared by Michal Musil, Integra Consulting Ltd.

Green economy policy context: The Pan-European Strategic

- improving resource efficiency,

Objective I. Reduced environmental risks and ecological scarcities

Focus area 1. Improve sustainable use of natural capital

Objective II. Enhanced economic progress

Focus area 4. Shift consumer behaviours towards sustainable consumption patterns

Objective III. Improved human well-being and social equity

Aarhus Centres and green economy & resource efficiency

Rationale for Aarhus Centres involvement in the green economy:

Established presence in the countries of Understanding by stakeholders of the role,

Focus on environmental awareness raising,

The Pan-European Strategic Framework for Macroeconomic development might

2) Capacity-building recommendations: aiming at addressing identified internal (institutional)

Thematic Road Map

In this respect, the following activities could be regarded as of key importance:

Building a knowledge base and raise awareness

o Prepare a comprehensive overview of the green economy relevant information (e.g.

o Establish (or join existing) thematic platforms/networks for sharing information on

Monitor progress on greening the economy

Contribute to the policy-making

If conditions permit, a direct involvement of an Aarhus Centre in the process of development

o Follow any initiative(s) by governmental structures related to preparation of a

process of preparation of such policy/strategy/plan, namely the relevant stakeholder

Improving/cultivating relationships with the business/corporate stakeholders.

Develop expert capacity in multiple fields and key relevant sectors.

Whether through maintaining an in-house expertise or ensuring availability of specific

o Establish a registry/database of experts and institutions/organizations with proven

Annex: Indicative list of green economy actions for Aarhus Centres

- Advocate introduction of key sustainable - Shared Environmental Information System

- Aarhus Convention and Protocol on PRTRs

Objective I. Reduced environmental risks and ecological scarcities

Focus area/ Type of Action Sector Relevant SDG Potential/experience

stakeholders relevant for its

- The European Union's Biodiversity Action Plan

standards, simbio-city Trust

information platforms/help trainings for the staff of relevant agreement

Develop and promote Legal/Regulatory Waste 11,12 P - Awareness-raising Armenia

Intensification and Ecosystem Services

Establish a framework for Legal/regulatory/ Mining 12 P - Advise and advocacy Kyrgyzstan

6. Promote green and fair

business practices by the Private Sector in Achieving Inclusive and

Objective III. Improved human well-being and social equity

Focus area/ Type of Action Sector Relevant SDG Potential/experience

green jobs for indigenous

different countries and discuss - Report to UNECE and UNESCO on Indicators of

Foster conservation, use, Information, Economy 16 L Kyrgyzstan

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