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UNITED NATIONS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME

PROJECT DOCUMENT

Republic of Armenia

P roject Tlitle: Climate Ri sk Mitigation: Passive Solar Greenhouse

Project/Outp~t ID: 00097661 I 0010 1302

Implementing Partner: UNDP

mm mm Empowered /Ives. Reslllent 110,ioos.

Start Dat€~ : 18/07/2016 End Date: 30/06/2017 PAC Meeting date: 11 /08/2016

Brief Description The project is pi loting pass ive solar greenhouses (PSG) in one of the communities of Shirak region of Armenia to demonstrate the advantages of climate change risk resistant, alternative (non­conventional) energy-effective architectural model greenhouse for year-round fresh crop cultivation in vu lnerable communities. The advantage of PSG is that it offers sustainable agricultural technology through an environmentally friend ly construction, which rely exclusive ly on solar energy and have no significant technological risks or negative ecological impact. The PSG provides opportunities fo r cultivation of high value crops, organic agriculture year-round, and also provides employment opportunities for women in rural communities.

Apart from innovative PSG construction, the Project will focus on development of marketing and cultivation skills, as well as cooperation between the beneficiary fa rmers, based on the principles of the new Law on Cooperatives adopted by the National Assembly of Armenia in 201 5, as well as Civi l Code of Armenia .

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Contribut ing Outcome (UNOA F/CPO, RPO or GPO):

Environment anl:l disaster risk management is integrated into national and local development frameworks.

Ind icative Output(s):

• Pass ive solar greenhouse pi loted in Shi rak region.

• Add itional income generation opportunities created fo r project beneficiaries through production and sales of greenhouse produce (fresh crops, high-value vegetables, seedlings).

• At least 10 local farmers trained on operation of passive solar greenhouse

Agreed by UNDP: (JJ). ' Namo/J3radley Busetto Tit~~ Resident Coordinator

UNDP Resident Representative in Armenia Date:

Tota l resources req uired:

Tota l resou rces allocated:

Unfunded:

USO 74,473.79

UNDP Country Co-

USD Financing

14,473.79 Cost

Sharing: Romania: USO 60,000

Donor: Government:

UNDP In-10,000

Kind :

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I. DEVELOPMENT CHALLENGE

Agriculture is one of the core sectors of Armenia's economy and the main source of income generation and employment for livelihoods in rural areas. Agriculture constitutes 19.3 percent of Armenia’s GDP and contributes substantially to rural employment, as 36.3 percent of economically active population is involved in the sector1. Out of total 915 communities of Armenia 866 are rural, yet, the rural and provincial settlements are the most vulnerable in terms of climatic risks, economic and demographic decline2. Besides, there are substantial development disparities between the rural and urban settlements of Armenia, especially in terms of access to resources, quality infrastructures and innovative alternatives that can tackle the main income generation sphere for the rural population - agriculture. When considering the project’s target area - Shirak region of Armenia - these development disparities become even more evident. Shirak region is located in the north-west of Armenia and borders the Republic of Georgia and Turkey with 165 km of Armenia’s national border. Shirak occupies 9% of the country’s territory and has a population of 245,700. The agricultural lands of the region constitute 80.5% of the total area, 53.29% of agricultural land in pastures, while arable lands account for 36.79%. The region is mainly specialized in milk and meat production and processing, while the crop cultivation mostly includes root vegetables and wheat. In the context of the project, the following challenges are prioritized in Shirak region: Climate risks and non-diversified agricultural practices: Agricultural activities are

connected with high climatic risks in Armenia. Within the territory of the country (29,743 km2) there are 10 climate zones. The climate variability and increasing extreme weather events are making agriculture the most vulnerable sector of the economy, as a sector heavily dependent from ecosystem services. Being on the height of 1500-2000m above sea level, the region of Shirak is characterized with cold to severe winters (-22°C) and mild summers. Due to this climate, the main agricultural practices of Shirak population are cattle breeding and limited (non-diversified) crop cultivation, such as potatoes, beetroot, carrot and wheat, having no serious economic alternatives to it. Other types of fresh crops (vegetables and greens) are usually not available or are purchased at a high price in the urban markets. In addition to unfavorable climatic conditions, the Shirak region is challenged with shortage of irrigation water during summer months, which often results in arguments with co-villagers related to failed crops. This means that in case of negative climate impacts on pastures and crop fields, the farmers of Shirak will witness serious economic losses.

Unemployment and demographic challenges: With 3 urban and 116 rural communities, the

poverty rate in Shirak region is higher than the country average. With almost 46% of the population below the poverty line, Shirak – a high altitude region devastated by the earthquake in 1988 – is still the poorest in Armenia3. The residents of Shirak region find it more and more difficult to subsist on the limited crop cultivation and cattle breeding. The insufficient income and scarcity of jobs drives men to leave the country for seasonal work or emigrate entirely, leaving their households and their communities under the agency of women. Most of the women in the villages are left dependent on remittances or children’s benefits. With own initiative, women demonstrate some entrepreneurial skills in the villages, (i.e. sustaining small gardens for family use, trading of fruit, herbs, etc.) without which even basic survival would have been impossible.

1 National Statistical Service of Armenia, “Armenia in Figures”, 2014. Link: http://armstat.am/en/?nid=82&id=1620 2  Government  of  Armenia,  “Strategic  Program  of  Prospective  Development  for  2014‐2025”.  Link http://www.gov.am/files/docs/1322.pdf 3 Social Snapshot and Poverty in Armenia, 2013. http://www.armstat.am/en/?nid=82&id=1503

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Lack of infrastructure, know-how and innovative alternatives for farming: Provision of durable infrastructure adapted to the environment of Shirak and exchanging knowledge on innovative, yet locally available and cheap farming solutions could substantially improve the agricultural efficiency of Shirak farmers. Though the farmers have developed during the years successful practices of growing certain types of crops, they need to be introduced to diversified practices that are cost-effective and independent at the same time. The farmers also need a professional consultation about improving their growing techniques, applying innovative methods for crop selection, cultivation, storage, as well as sales and marketing.

Within the context of climate change one of the most vulnerable sectors of economy is the agriculture, especially its sectors heavily dependent on natural landscapes, such as the cattle breeding. Most of the mountainous communities of Armenia are specialized in cattle breeding and often do not have any serious economic alternatives to it. This means that in case of negative climate impacts on pastures and grasslands those communities may incur serious economic losses leading to emigration and loss of social capital as well. The project aims to provide tools and knowledge to the communities of Shirak to access improved alternatives for crop cultivation and income-generation, by demonstrating the benefits of operating a passive solar greenhouse in the region, as well as the development of cooperatives. This will also help farmers to diversify their economic activities, thus reducing the vulnerability to negative impacts of climate change. Another important advantage of the Project is that it will provide better employment opportunities for women. The passive solar greenhouse (PSG) has been successfully piloted by UNDP Armenia in Horbategh community (Vayots Dzor region of Armenia). The success of that project can be replicated in Shirak region, to test its effectiveness under less favorable conditions. The proposed project addresses the specific problems identified above by the following:

The PSG will be a demonstrative agricultural alternative for the farmers of Shirak region, as no such model of greenhouse has been operational in the region so far. Being constructed in a community with high altitude and abundant sunshine, the PSG will be operational throughout the year, providing diversified crop for the community.

PSG can create additional source of income for communities, which can thus diversify their economic base, reducing the vulnerability to climate change. The demonstrative model of PSG will show to community members how an alternative income generation may be achieved through comparatively low operational costs.

The PSG will be a knowledge-transfer experience to evaluate whether such models of greenhouses are suitable for Shirak region, and how this technology will be best beneficial in the context of the region’s needs.

II. STRATEGY

Stage 1. The beneficiary community will be identified on the initial stage of the project according to predefined socio-economic, agricultural and geographic criteria to be the best suiting community to carry out the pilot. One of the key criteria for selection of beneficiary community will be the willingness and ability to co-finance the project, including in kind, by providing construction materials or implementing part of the construction activities. Respective Statement of Intent will be signed with the selected community stating the responsibilities of all parties. Prior to the beginning of the construction series of meetings will be conducted in the selected community to inform locals about the project and present the concept of passive solar greenhouse.

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The planning and construction of the PSG will be done in the identified community. The PSG design documentation used for Horbategh community will be reviewed to adapt to the Shirak climatic conditions. The PSG will have a controlled temperature, ventilation, drip irrigation system, fertile soil. The specific parameters of the greenhouses: (1) around 260sq/m growing space; (2) metal construction; (3) plastic inflatable cover; (4) independence of the conventional energy infrastructures (gas, liquid fuel or electricity), small cold storage area. Stage 2. One of the partners of the project implementation will be the Researchers for Bio-Heating Solutions NGO, in cooperation with which there will be conducted trainings for the interested farmers to work at the PSGs. The selection will be done among the most suitable candidates based on the pre-defined criteria. The target group for trainings and recruitment will be women farmers and youth. The recruited employees will receive on-work consultations from the agricultural specialists and experts of the Researchers for Bio-Heating Solutions NGO to grow cash crops in the PSG. Other potential partners of the Project may include EU-UNDP ENPARD Project, as well as UNIDO and others. Stage 3. Assessment of the PSG operations will be done, gaps and advantages will be identified to be consulted during the potential replications of similar PSGs in Shirak region. Partnership will be created among the farmers of the greenhouse and other interested stakeholders to scale up the activities and to mobilize resources for better marketing and sales. III. RESULTS AND PARTNERSHIPS

Expected Results

Passive solar greenhouse is constructed and is operational. Additional income generation opportunities created for project beneficiaries through

production and sales of greenhouse produce (fresh crops, high-value vegetables, seedlings).

At least 10 local farmers trained on operation of passive solar greenhouse

Resources Required to Achieve the Expected Results

USD 74,473.79 will be required for implementation of the Project. Three part-time consultants will be contracted to implement the planned activities, including expert on climate risk mitigation activities in rural communities, architect/designer, and expert on agricultural and organization development activities.

Partnerships

UNDP has positive experience of cooperation with NGOs, including Researchers for Bio-Heating Solutions during the implementation of a similar project in Horbategh village of Vayots Dzor region, thus the cooperation will be continued in Shirak region as well. They can contribute in organisation of trainings of project beneficiaries and provide on-going support to their activities in terms of selection of marketable crops for production, as well as marketing of these.

Risks and Assumptions

Greenhouse construction delays and incidents: The risk will be addressed through considering additional time for construction of PSG due to bad weather conditions, road closures, material supply and other incidents. The risk will be mitigated through careful monitoring and supervision of the construction works.

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Withdrawal and cancellation of contracts by partners, their failure to comply with initially agreed terms of collaboration: This will be prevented through constant clear and direct communication about expectations and cooperation terms.

Inability of the target group to attend the trainings due to unanticipated reasons or time conflict: The risk will be mitigated through targeted scheduling of trainings consulted with the participants.

Inconsistent buying habits of the local customers, insufficient promotion and distribution of produce, stolen and damaged products: The risk will be mitigated through regular consultations on all the stages of product growing, marketing, sales and distribution.

Stakeholder Engagement

The target group to be addressed by the project is small farmers in Shirak marz. The beneficiaries of the project will be identified during the inception phase of the project, when there will be made an announcement for submission of applications by farmers interested in becoming part of the cooperative to be established for management of the greenhouse. All applicants will be invited to participate in a written test. Candidates shortlisted based on the results of written test will be interviewed by UNDP experts. Based on the results of the interviews there will be selected the beneficiary farmers, who will establish a cooperative for management of the greenhouse by signing an agreement on joint operations by citizens involved in agricultural production, provided by the Civic Code of Armenia. This will enable avoiding expenses related with registration of legal entity, as well as hiring of a director and accountant and paying subsequent taxes. It is estimated that up to 10 farmers will be the direct beneficiaries of the project. The selection of the beneficiaries will be done based on their economic needs, experience in agro-production and motivation to learn an alternative growing technology. As the project is a pilot and has a demonstrative character, it is expected that the rest of the identified community members will be the secondary beneficiaries. Other key stakeholders will be the administration of the identified community in Shirak, Agricultural Support Center of Shirak region, and NGOs working for rural development in Shirak.

South-South and Triangular Cooperation (SSC/TrC)

The project has indirect link to SSC since the passive solar greenhouse technology itself has been invented and applied in China.

Knowledge

A report summarizing the results of project implementation will be developed to present the main achievements, results learned, etc. The report will include details on management of passive solar greenhouse, as well as links to design documents of the greenhouse.

Sustainability and Scaling Up

The results of the project will be presented to the Ministry of Nature Protection and the Ministry of Agriculture in addition to already provided information on similar pilot project implemented by UNDP in Vayots Dzor region of Armenia and design documentation of passive solar greenhouse.

IV. PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Cost Efficiency and Effectiveness

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The project intends to deliver maximum results by cooperating with NGOs specialized in design and operation of passive greenhouse, thus ensuring proper management of the facility after its construction, maximization of incomes of beneficiaries. One of the criteria for selection of beneficiaries/beneficiary community will be their ability and willingness to co-finance the project implementation, by either providing respective funds or implementing part of the construction works, including provision of construction materials.

Project Management

The Project will follow the Direct Implementation Modality (DIM) led by UNDP in Armenia. The Country Office will be responsible for the project execution and will provide progress updates to the donor - the Government of Romania. DIM modality will include controlling the expenditure and ensuring adequate financial management of resources provided for the project, undertaking all necessary financial arrangements, processes, request for authorizations and payments with a view to ensure financial accountability. Support from the UNDP Country Office

UNDP Country Office will provide the following support services for the project activities: (i) Identification and/or recruitment and solution of administrative issues related to the project

personnel; (ii) Procurement of commodities, labor and services; (iii) Identification and facilitation of training activities, seminars and workshops; (iv) Financial monitoring and reporting; (v) Processing of direct payments; (vi) Supervision of project implementation, monitoring and assistance in project assessment.

The procurement of goods and services and the recruitment of project personnel by the UNDP country office shall be in accordance with the UNDP regulations, rules, policies and procedures. If the requirements for support services by the country office change during the life of a project. The relevant provisions of the Standard Basic Assistance Agreement (SBAA) between the Government of Armenia and the UNDP, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), signed by the parties on 8 March, 1995, including the provisions on liability and privileges and immunities, shall apply to the provision of such support services. Any claim or dispute arising under or in connection with the provision of support services by the UNDP country office in accordance with this document shall be handled pursuant to the relevant provisions of the SBAA. The logos of the UNDP and donor should appear on all communication and other public materials.

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V. RESULTS FRAMEWORK4

Intended Outcome as stated in the UNDAF/Country [or Global/Regional] Programme Results and Resource Framework:

Environment and disaster risk management is integrated into national and local development framework

This project will contribute to the following country outcome included in the UNDAF/Country Programme Document: By 2020, sustainable development principles and good practices for environmental sustainability resilience building, climate change adaptation and mitigation, and green economy are introduced and applied

Applicable Output(s) from the UNDP Strategic Plan: Climate change adaptation and mitigation

Project title and Atlas Project Number: Climate Risk Mitigation: Passive Solar Greenhouse 00097661

EXPECTED OUTPUTS

OUTPUT INDICATORS5 DATA SOURCE

BASELINE TARGETS (by frequency of data collection)

DATA COLLECTION METHODS &

RISKS Value

Year

Year 1

Year

2

FINAL

Output 1

Provide tools and knowledge to the communities of Shirak to access improved alternatives for crop cultivation and income-generation, by demonstrating the benefits of operating a passive solar greenhouse in the

1.1 One passive solar greenhouse piloted in Shirak region is constructed.

Project annual reports

Passive solar greenhouses constructed

0 0 1 1

1.2 Additional income generation opportunities created for project beneficiaries through production and sales of greenhouse produce (fresh crops, high-value vegetables, seedlings).

Project annual reports

Availability of additional income generation opportunities

Not available

Not available

Available

4 UNDP publishes its project information (indicators, baselines, targets and results) to meet the International Aid Transparency Initiative (IATI) standards. Make sure that indicators are S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time‐bound), provide accurate baselines and targets underpinned by reliable evidence and data, and avoid acronyms so that external audience clearly understand the results of the project. 5 It is recommended that projects use output indicators from the Strategic Plan IRRF, as relevant, in addition to project‐specific results indicators. Indicators should be disaggregated by sex or for other targeted groups where relevant. 

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region.

1.3 At least 10 local farmers trained on operation of passive solar greenhouse

Project annual reports

Farmers trained 0 10 10 10

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VI. PROJECT BUDGET

EXPECTED CP OUTPUTS

and indicators including annual

targets

PLANNED ACTIVITIES (including M&E activities)

RESP. PARTY

PLANNED BUDGET US$

Source of Funds

Code Budget Description 2016 2017 Total

Project title: Climate Risk Mitigation: Passive Solar Greenhouse UNDP/00097661

Project Outcome: Promoted climate resilience of rural communities vulnerable to climate change risks

Baseline: Limited knowledge on who is the most vulnerable to climate change risks. Target for 2016: Provide tools and knowledge to the communities of Shirak to access improved alternatives for crop cultivation and income-generation, by demonstrating the benefits of operating a passive solar greenhouse in the region Indicators: • Passive solar greenhouse piloted in

Activity 1: Supporting implementation of selected CRM measures in rural communities with special emphasis on assisting women-headed farms. 1.1. Identification of Shirak marz community for the construction of pilot PSG, based on predefined socio-economic, agricultural and geographic criteria. 1.2. Training of farmers interested in working in PSG, selection of the most suitable candidates for working in PSG among the trained farmers, with focus on women and youth.

MNP MTA

UNDP 30084

MA DRRNF CBOs 71300 Local Consultants 6,550 - 6,550.00 NGOs 71400 Contractual services-individuals 4,710 - 4,710.00

71600 Travel 1,580.0 - 1,580.00 72100 Contractual services-companies 315.00 - 315.00 74200 AV and Printing Production Costs 815.00 - 815.00 74500 Miscellaneous 503.79 - 503.79

UNDP 14,473.79 - 14,473.79 1.3. Adjusting of existing PSG design based on peculiarities of selected community, contracting of construction company.

MNP MTA

Gov. of Romania

MA 30000 DRRNF

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Shirak region. • Additional income generation opportunities created for project beneficiaries through production and sales of greenhouse produce (fresh crops, high-value vegetables, seedlings). • At least 10 local farmers trained on operation of passive solar greenhouse

1.4. Construction of PSG, installation of required equipment. 1.5. Monitoring of the construction activities and other works. 1.6. Testing and optimization of crops, training of PSG beneficiaries on marketing of products. 1.7. Assessment of PSG operations, identify the gaps and plan on optimization and replication.

CBOs 71300 Local Consultants 800.00 4,450.00 5,250.00 NGOs 71600 Travel 700.00 1,000.00 1,700.00

72100 Contractual services-companies 35,000.00 - 35,000.00 72300 Materials & Goods 700.00 700.00 1,400.00 72500 Supplies 100.00 200.00 300.00 73400 Rental and Maintenance of Other

Equipment 400.00 400.00 800.00

75100 Facilities and administration 3,016.00 540.00 3,556.00

Romania 40,716.00 7,290.00 48,006.00 Total Activity 1 55,189.79 7,290.00 62,479.79 Activity 2: Project management: implementation, monitoring and evaluation 2.1. Develop and quarterly revise detailed work plans 2.2. Prepare quarterly and annual progress reports 2.3. Prepare Project Implementation report

MNP MTA MA

DRRNF CBOs NGOs

Gov. of Romania

30000

71400 Contractual services-individuals 3,680.00 5,450.00 9,130.00 72400 Communication and AV

equipment 400.00 400.00 800.00

74500 Miscellaneous 500.00 675.56 1,175.56 75100 Facilities and administration 366.40 522.04 888.44

Total Activity 2 4,946.40 7,047.60 11,994.00 UNDP Total 14,473.79 - 14,473.79 Romania Total 45,662.40 14,337.60 60,000.00 PROJECT TOTAL 60,136.19 14,337.60 74,473.79

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VII. MONITORING AND EVALUATION

In accordance with UNDP’s programming policies and procedures, the project will be monitored through the following monitoring and evaluation plans: [Note: monitoring and evaluation plans should be adapted to project context, as needed] Monitoring Plan

Monitoring Activity Purpose Frequency Expected Action Partners (if joint)

Cost (if any)

Track results progress

Progress data against the results indicators in the RRF will be collected and analysed to assess the progress of the project in achieving the agreed outputs.

Quarterly, or in the frequency required for each indicator.

If slower than expected, the progress will be addressed by project management.

Monitor and Manage Risk

Identify specific risks that may threaten achievement of intended results. Identify and monitor risk management actions using a risk log. This includes monitoring measures and plans that may have been required as per UNDP’s Social and Environmental Standards. Audits will be conducted in accordance with UNDP’s audit policy to manage financial risk.

Quarterly

Risks are identified by project management and actions are taken to manage risk. The risk log is actively maintained to keep track of identified risks and actions taken.

Learn Knowledge, good practices and lessons will be captured regularly, as well as actively sourced from other projects and partners and integrated back into the project.

End of project

Relevant lessons are captured by the project team and used to inform management decisions.

Annual Project Quality Assurance

The quality of the project will be assessed against UNDP’s quality standards to identify project strengths and weaknesses and to inform management decision making to improve the project.

End of project

Areas of strength and weakness will be reviewed by project management and used to inform decisions to improve project performance.

Project Report

A progress report will be presented to the Project Board and key stakeholders, consisting of progress data showing the results achieved against pre-defined annual targets at the output level, the annual project quality rating summary, an updated risk long with mitigation measures, and any evaluation or review reports prepared over the period.

End of project

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VIII. MULTI-YEAR WORK PLAN 6 7

All anticipated programmatic and operational costs to support the project, including development effectiveness and implementation support arrangements, need to be identified, estimated and fully costed in the project budget under the relevant output(s). This includes activities that directly support the project, such as communication, human resources, procurement, finance, audit, policy advisory, quality assurance, reporting, management, etc. All services which are directly related to the project need to be disclosed transparently in the project document.

EXPECTED OUTPUTS

PLANNED ACTIVITIES Planned Budget by Year

RESPONSIBLE

PARTY PLANNED BUDGET

Y1

Y2

Funding Source

Budget Descripti

on Amount

Output 1

1.1 Supporting implementation of selected CRM measures in rural communities.

55,343.79 7,228 UNDP

UNDP 14,473.79

Romania 48,098.00

1.2 Project management: implementation, monitoring and evaluation

4,782 7,120 UNDP UNDP 0

Romania 11,902.00

MONITORING

Sub-Total for Output 1 74,473.79

TOTAL 74,473.79

6 Cost definitions and classifications for programme and development effectiveness costs to be charged to the project are defined in the Executive Board decision DP/2010/32 7 Changes to a project budget affecting the scope (outputs), completion date, or total estimated project costs require a formal budget revision that must be signed by the project board. In other cases,  the UNDP programme manager alone may  sign  the  revision provided  the other  signatories have no objection. This procedure may be applied  for example when  the purpose of the revision is only to re‐phase activities among years.  

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IX. GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS

The Project Board will consist of UNDP DRR, UNDP Sustainable Growth and Resilience Portfolio Analyst, and the National Director of the Environment Governance Portfolio, a focal person nominated from the responsible partner. This Project Board will provide management decisions as required. The Project Board will also have the final authority on matters requiring official review and approval, including annual work plans, budgets. Sustainable Growth and Resilience Portfolio Analyst will provide technical support to the project and guidance to the Project Coordinator. In addition, the Portfolio Manager will lead in the identification and assessment of risks, and formulate measures aimed at strengthening management of risks, and engage and negotiate with donor and international financial institution partners. The day-to-day implementation of the project will be carried out through the well-established UNDP Climate Change Program Unit located at the Government bld. 3. The knowledge and expertise on implementation of UNFCCC in the country and well-established relations with specialized national institutions and support structures will contribute in smooth start and implementation of the project. A project team will be established and recruited on a competitive basis for project implementation. The project team will be managed by the Programme Coordinator, who will be accountable to Sustainable Growth and Resilience Portfolio Analyst and UNDP for planning, implementation quality, timeliness and effectiveness of the activities carried out and the proper use of funds. The Programme Coordinator will be supported by local support staff in the overall project management, including administrative and finance assistance, logistic support/driver, assistant. The Project Management Team will be responsible for financial and technical reporting including preparation of progress reports; monitoring and evaluation; organization of training/workshop activities; and other tasks.

Project Organisation Structure

Project Board (Governance Mechanism)

Executive

UNDP

Senior Supplier

UNDP

UNDP Climate Change Programme Coordinator

Technical Advisory Committee

Project Assurance UNDP SGR Portfolio

Analyst

National Experts: Climate risk mitigation pilot activities, Architect/Designer, Agricultural and organization development

activities

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X. LEGAL CONTEXT AND RISK MANAGEMENT

[NOTE: The following section is required for all project documents, and contains the general provisions and alternative texts for the different types of implementation modalities for individual projects. Select one option from each the legal context and risk management standard clauses and include these in your project document under the Legal Context and Risk Management Standard Clauses headings] LEGAL CONTEXT

This project document shall be the instrument referred to as such in Article 1 of the Standard Basic Assistance Agreement between the Government of (country) and UNDP, signed on (date). All references in the SBAA to “Executing Agency” shall be deemed to refer to “Implementing Partner.” RISK MANAGEMENT

UNDP (DIM)

1. UNDP as the Implementing Partner shall comply with the policies, procedures and practices of the United Nations Security Management System (UNSMS.)

2. UNDP agrees to undertake all reasonable efforts to ensure that none of the project funds8 are used to provide support to individuals or entities associated with terrorism and that the recipients of any amounts provided by UNDP hereunder do not appear on the list maintained by the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1267 (1999). The list can be accessed via hthttp://www.un.org/sc/committees/1267/aq_sanctions_list.shtml. This provision must be included in all sub-contracts or sub-agreements entered into under this Project Document.

3. Consistent with UNDP’s Programme and Operations Policies and Procedures, social and environmental sustainability will be enhanced through application of the UNDP Social and Environmental Standards (http://www.undp.org/ses) and related Accountability Mechanism (http://www.undp.org/secu-srm).

4. The Implementing Partner shall: (a) conduct project and programme-related activities in a manner consistent with the UNDP Social and Environmental Standards, (b) implement any management or mitigation plan prepared for the project or programme to comply with such standards, and (c) engage in a constructive and timely manner to address any concerns and complaints raised through the Accountability Mechanism. UNDP will seek to ensure that communities and other project stakeholders are informed of and have access to the Accountability Mechanism.

5. All signatories to the Project Document shall cooperate in good faith with any exercise to evaluate any programme or project-related commitments or compliance with the UNDP Social and Environmental Standards. This includes providing access to project sites, relevant personnel, information, and documentation.

8 To be used where UNDP is the Implementing Partner

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XI. ANNEXES

1. Social and Environmental Screening

Project Information

Project Information

1. Project Title Climate Risk Mitigation: Passive Solar Greenhouse

2. Project Number 00097661

3. Location (Global/Region/Country)

RBEC/ECA/Armenia

Part A. Integrating Overarching Principles to Strengthen Social and Environmental Sustainability

QUESTION 1: How Does the Project Integrate the Overarching Principles in order to Strengthen Social and Environmental Sustainability?

Briefly describe in the space below how the Project mainstreams the human-rights based approach

The project supports the meaningful participation and inclusion of all stakeholders, during the design, implementation and monitoring of the project, which deals with piloting of passive solar greenhouse concept in Shirak region. It is anticipated that broader involvement of the different strata of the society will ensure transparency of the decision-making during the project implementation, as well as to the Measuring Reporting and Verification system for the programs and projects implementation efficacy. This approach is consistent with the participation and inclusion of human rights principle. The stakeholder engagement process will accommodate a wide range of stakeholders and institutions both at the national and community-based levels.

Briefly describe in the space below how the Project is likely to improve gender equality and women’s empowerment

The project intends to empower gender by ensuring equal opportunities for male and female candidates for becoming project beneficiaries. Furthermore, gender will be mainstreamed into the project in a way that ensures that equitable participation of women in the decision-making process. With regard to the technical team to be hired to implement the enabling activity, gender balance will be also considered.

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UN Country team supports the Government of Armenia in its respective efforts through its both direct projects targeting women, and incorporating respective gender-related activities into the project designs and in course of implementing projects. The gender dimension is taken into account when preparing the program for further UN cooperation with the Government of Armenia. In this regards, the project will give special attention to gender as one of the key stakeholders and beneficiaries from piloting of passive solar greenhouses.

Briefly describe in the space below how the Project mainstreams environmental sustainability

The objective of the project is piloting of passive solar greenhouse in one of the rural communities of Shirak region to demonstrate the advantages of alternative (non-conventional) technologies for year-round fresh crop cultivation through an energy-effective architectural model of greenhouse, reducing climate risks for small farms in vulnerable communities. The advantage of PSG is that those offer a sustainable agricultural technology through an environmentally-friendly construction option. PSGs rely exclusively on solar energy and have no significant technological risks or negative ecological impacts.

Part B. Identifying and Managing Social and Environmental Risks

QUESTION 2: What are the Potential Social and Environmental Risks?

QUESTION 3: What is the level of significance of the potential social and environmental risks?

QUESTION 6: What social and environmental assessment and management measures have been conducted and/or are required to address potential risks (for Risks with Moderate and High Significance)?

Risk Description Impact and Probability (1-5)

Significance

(Low, Moderate, High)

Comments Description of assessment and management measures as reflected in the Project design. If ESIA or SESA is required note that the assessment should consider all potential impacts and risks.

Risk 1: None I = P =

N/A N/A N/A

Risk 2 …. I = P =

QUESTION 4: What is the overall Project risk categorization?

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Select one (see SESP for guidance) Comments

Low Risk x There are no environmental or social risks related to this project

Moderate Risk ☐

High Risk ☐

QUESTION 5: Based on the identified risks and risk categorization, what requirements of the SES are relevant?

Check all that apply Comments

Principle 1: Human Rights ☐ None required Principle 2: Gender Equality and

Women’s Empowerment ☐ None required

1. Biodiversity Conservation and Natural Resource Management ☐ None required

2. Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation ☐ None required

3. Community Health, Safety and Working Conditions ☐ None required

4. Cultural Heritage ☐ None required 5. Displacement and Resettlement ☐ None required 6. Indigenous Peoples ☐ None required 7. Pollution Prevention and Resource

Efficiency ☐ None required

Final Sign Off

Signature Date Description

QA Assessor Armen Martirosyan,

UNDP staff member responsible for the Project, typically a UNDP Programme Officer. Final signature confirms they have “checked” to ensure that the SESP is adequately conducted.

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SGR Programme Analyst

QA Approver Claire Medina, Deputy Resident Representative

UNDP senior manager, typically the UNDP Deputy Country Director (DCD), Country Director (CD), Deputy Resident Representative (DRR), or Resident Representative (RR). The QA Approver cannot also be the QA Assessor. Final signature confirms they have “cleared” the SESP prior to submittal to the PAC.

PAC Chair Claire Medina, Deputy Resident Representative

UNDP chair of the PAC. In some cases PAC Chair may also be the QA Approver. Final signature confirms that the SESP was considered as part of the project appraisal and considered in recommendations of the PAC.

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SESP Attachment 1. Social and Environmental Risk Screening Checklist

Checklist Potential Social and Environmental Risks Principles 1: Human Rights Answer

(Yes/No)

1. Could the Project lead to adverse impacts on enjoyment of the human rights (civil, political, economic, social or cultural) of the affected population and particularly of marginalized groups?

No

2. Is there a likelihood that the Project would have inequitable or discriminatory adverse impacts on affected populations, particularly people living in poverty or marginalized or excluded individuals or groups? 9

No

3. Could the Project potentially restrict availability, quality of and access to resources or basic services, in particular to marginalized individuals or groups?

No

4. Is there a likelihood that the Project would exclude any potentially affected stakeholders, in particular marginalized groups, from fully participating in decisions that may affect them?

No

5. Are there measures or mechanisms in place to respond to local community grievances? Yes 6. Is there a risk that duty-bearers do not have the capacity to meet their obligations in the

Project? No

7. Is there a risk that rights-holders do not have the capacity to claim their rights? No 8. Have local communities or individuals, given the opportunity, raised human rights concerns

regarding the Project during the stakeholder engagement process?

No 9. Is there a risk that the Project would exacerbate conflicts among and/or the risk of violence

to project-affected communities and individuals?

No Principle 2: Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment

1. Is there a likelihood that the proposed Project would have adverse impacts on gender equality and/or the situation of women and girls?

No

2. Would the Project potentially reproduce discriminations against women based on gender, especially regarding participation in design and implementation or access to opportunities and benefits?

No

3. Have women’s groups/leaders raised gender equality concerns regarding the Project during the stakeholder engagement process and has this been included in the overall Project proposal and in the risk assessment?

No

3. Would the Project potentially limit women’s ability to use, develop and protect natural resources, taking into account different roles and positions of women and men in accessing environmental goods and services?

For example, activities that could lead to natural resources degradation or depletion in communities who depend on these resources for their livelihoods and well being

No

Principle 3: Environmental Sustainability: Screening questions regarding environmental risks are encompassed by the specific Standard-related questions below

Standard 1: Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Natural Resource Management

1.1 Would the Project potentially cause adverse impacts to habitats (e.g. modified, natural, and critical habitats) and/or ecosystems and ecosystem services?

9 Prohibited  grounds  of  discrimination  include  race,  ethnicity,  gender,  age,  language,  disability,  sexual  orientation,  religion, political or other opinion, national or social or geographical origin, property, birth or other status including as an indigenous person or as a member of a minority. References to “women and men” or similar is understood to include women and men, boys and girls, and other groups discriminated against based on their gender identities, such as transgender people and transsexuals. 

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For example, through habitat loss, conversion or degradation, fragmentation, hydrological changes

No

1.2 Are any Project activities proposed within or adjacent to critical habitats and/or environmentally sensitive areas, including legally protected areas (e.g. nature reserve, national park), areas proposed for protection, or recognized as such by authoritative sources and/or indigenous peoples or local communities?

No

1.3 Does the Project involve changes to the use of lands and resources that may have adverse impacts on habitats, ecosystems, and/or livelihoods? (Note: if restrictions and/or limitations of access to lands would apply, refer to Standard 5)

No

1.4 Would Project activities pose risks to endangered species? No 1.5 Would the Project pose a risk of introducing invasive alien species? No 1.6 Does the Project involve harvesting of natural forests, plantation development, or

reforestation? No

1.7 Does the Project involve the production and/or harvesting of fish populations or other aquatic species?

No

1.8 Does the Project involve significant extraction, diversion or containment of surface or ground water?

For example, construction of dams, reservoirs, river basin developments, groundwater extraction

No

1.9 Does the Project involve utilization of genetic resources? (e.g. collection and/or harvesting, commercial development)

No

1.10 Would the Project generate potential adverse transboundary or global environmental concerns?

No

1.11 Would the Project result in secondary or consequential development activities which could lead to adverse social and environmental effects, or would it generate cumulative impacts with other known existing or planned activities in the area?

For example, a new road through forested lands will generate direct environmental and social impacts (e.g. felling of trees, earthworks, potential relocation of inhabitants). The new road may also facilitate encroachment on lands by illegal settlers or generate unplanned commercial development along the route, potentially in sensitive areas. These are indirect, secondary, or induced impacts that need to be considered. Also, if similar developments in the same forested area are planned, then cumulative impacts of multiple activities (even if not part of the same Project) need to be considered.

No

Standard 2: Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation 2.1 Will the proposed Project result in significant10 greenhouse gas emissions or may

exacerbate climate change? No

2.2 Would the potential outcomes of the Project be sensitive or vulnerable to potential impacts of climate change?

No

2.3 Is the proposed Project likely to directly or indirectly increase social and environmental vulnerability to climate change now or in the future (also known as maladaptive practices)? For example, changes to land use planning may encourage further development of floodplains, potentially increasing the population’s vulnerability to climate change, specifically flooding

No

Standard 3: Community Health, Safety and Working Conditions 3.1 Would elements of Project construction, operation, or decommissioning pose potential

safety risks to local communities? No

3.2 Would the Project pose potential risks to community health and safety due to the transport, storage, and use and/or disposal of hazardous or dangerous materials (e.g. explosives, fuel and other chemicals during construction and operation)?

No

3.3 Does the Project involve large-scale infrastructure development (e.g. dams, roads, buildings)?

No

10 In regards to CO2, ‘significant emissions’ corresponds generally to more than 25,000 tons per year (from both direct and indirect 

sources). [The Guidance Note on Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation provides additional information on GHG emissions.] 

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3.4 Would failure of structural elements of the Project pose risks to communities? (e.g. collapse of buildings or infrastructure)

No

3.5 Would the proposed Project be susceptible to or lead to increased vulnerability to earthquakes, subsidence, landslides, erosion, flooding or extreme climatic conditions?

No

3.6 Would the Project result in potential increased health risks (e.g. from water-borne or other vector-borne diseases or communicable infections such as HIV/AIDS)?

No

3.7 Does the Project pose potential risks and vulnerabilities related to occupational health and safety due to physical, chemical, biological, and radiological hazards during Project construction, operation, or decommissioning?

No

3.8 Does the Project involve support for employment or livelihoods that may fail to comply with national and international labor standards (i.e. principles and standards of ILO fundamental conventions)?

No

3.9 Does the Project engage security personnel that may pose a potential risk to health and safety of communities and/or individuals (e.g. due to a lack of adequate training or accountability)?

No

Standard 4: Cultural Heritage 4.1 Will the proposed Project result in interventions that would potentially adversely impact

sites, structures, or objects with historical, cultural, artistic, traditional or religious values or intangible forms of culture (e.g. knowledge, innovations, practices)? (Note: Projects intended to protect and conserve Cultural Heritage may also have inadvertent adverse impacts)

No

4.2 Does the Project propose utilizing tangible and/or intangible forms of cultural heritage for commercial or other purposes?

No

Standard 5: Displacement and Resettlement 5.1 Would the Project potentially involve temporary or permanent and full or partial

physical displacement? No

5.2 Would the Project possibly result in economic displacement (e.g. loss of assets or access to resources due to land acquisition or access restrictions – even in the absence of physical relocation)?

No

5.3 Is there a risk that the Project would lead to forced evictions?11 No 5.4 Would the proposed Project possibly affect land tenure arrangements and/or community

based property rights/customary rights to land, territories and/or resources? No

Standard 6: Indigenous Peoples 6.1 Are indigenous peoples present in the Project area (including Project area of influence)? No 6.2 Is it likely that the Project or portions of the Project will be located on lands and

territories claimed by indigenous peoples? No

6.3 Would the proposed Project potentially affect the rights, lands and territories of indigenous peoples (regardless of whether Indigenous Peoples possess the legal titles to such areas)?

No

6.4 Has there been an absence of culturally appropriate consultations carried out with the objective of achieving FPIC on matters that may affect the rights and interests, lands, resources, territories and traditional livelihoods of the indigenous peoples concerned?

No

6.4 Does the proposed Project involve the utilization and/or commercial development of natural resources on lands and territories claimed by indigenous peoples?

No

6.5 Is there a potential for forced eviction or the whole or partial physical or economic displacement of indigenous peoples, including through access restrictions to lands, territories, and resources?

No

6.6 Would the Project adversely affect the development priorities of indigenous peoples as defined by them?

No

11 Forced  evictions  include  acts  and/or  omissions  involving  the  coerced  or  involuntary  displacement  of  individuals,  groups,  or communities from homes and/or lands and common property resources that were occupied or depended upon, thus eliminating the  ability  of  an  individual,  group,  or  community  to  reside  or  work  in  a  particular  dwelling,  residence,  or  location without  the provision of, and access to, appropriate forms of legal or other protections.

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6.7 Would the Project potentially affect the traditional livelihoods, physical and cultural survival of indigenous peoples?

No

6.8 Would the Project potentially affect the Cultural Heritage of indigenous peoples, including through the commercialization or use of their traditional knowledge and practices?

No

Standard 7: Pollution Prevention and Resource Efficiency

7.1 Would the Project potentially result in the release of pollutants to the environment due to routine or non-routine circumstances with the potential for adverse local, regional, and/or transboundary impacts?

No

7.2 Would the proposed Project potentially result in the generation of waste (both hazardous and non-hazardous)?

No

7.3 Will the proposed Project potentially involve the manufacture, trade, release, and/or use of hazardous chemicals and/or materials? Does the Project propose use of chemicals or materials subject to international bans or phase-outs? For example, DDT, PCBs and other chemicals listed in international conventions such as the Stockholm Conventions on Persistent Organic Pollutants or the Montreal Protocol

No

7.4 Will the proposed Project involve the application of pesticides that may have a negative effect on the environment or human health?

No

7.5 Does the Project include activities that require significant consumption of raw materials, energy, and/or water?

No

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2. Risk Analysis

Project Title: Climate Risk Mitigation: Passive Solar Greenhouse Award ID: 00101302 Date: September,

2016 # Description Date

Identified Type Impact & Probability Countermeasures / Mngt

response Owner Submitted,

updated by Last Update

Status

1 Severe weather conditions

July 2016

Operational

Experience from CRM project indicates that Greenhouse construction delays may arise, due to early winter colds. P=4 I= 2

The risk will be addressed through considering additional time for construction of PSG due to bad weather conditions, road closures, unavailable materials and other incidents.

UNDP CO

CC Program Coordinator