Minerals and Metals Specialist

Result of Service

The tasks undertaken under this consultancy will ultimately contribute to achieving the following objectives: - Maintenance and management of the Digital Knowledge Hub on Environmental Aspects of Minerals and Metals - Development of capacity building opportunities for stakeholders on enhancing environmental sustainability of minerals and metals - Mobilization of additional project funding

Work Location

Remote

Expected duration

6 months

Duties and Responsibilities

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system, and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. Its Industry and Economy Division provides solutions to decision-makers and helps change the business environment by offering platforms for multi-stakeholder dialogue and cooperation, innovative policy options, pilot projects and creative market mechanisms to improve the quality of the environment and the well-being of citizens. It promotes sustainable patterns of consumption and production, makes efficient use of natural resources, ensures safe management of chemicals and contributes to making trade and environment policies mutually supportive. This opportunity is located within the Consumption and Production Unit at UNEP. The Unit promotes sustainable consumption and production through resource efficiency and circularity in several industrial sectors, including the high-impact sector on Minerals and Metals. More specifically, UNEP's work with stakeholders from the mining sector has covered the following priority areas: 1. Strengthening Laws and Governance of Minerals and Metals –Facilitating intergovernmental processes around minerals and metals and promote environmental sustainability and circularity in mining governance. 2. Informing Policy with Science– Increasing knowledge and evidence on environmental impacts: provide policymakers and stakeholders with impartial assessments, knowledge and science on environmental threats and impacts of the mining industry. 3. Innovation and Better Business –Encouraging businesses to improve their resource efficiency and adopt sustainable practices along the value chain. In 2024, the United Nations Environment Assembly adopted resolution 6/5 on "Environmental Aspects of Minerals and Metals" which mandates UNEP to: - Establish a digital knowledge hub to compile, among other things, information on existing good practices relevant to the environmental aspects of minerals and metals. - Develop capacity-building opportunities relating to environmental aspects of minerals and metals with experts on the subject from each region, including but not limited to online training. - Support enhanced cooperation among Member States to strengthen the policy, technological, technical and scientific elements of the management of environmental aspects of minerals and metals. - Strengthen the cooperation between the United Nations Environment Programme and relevant international and regional organizations and forums, and with relevant stakeholders, on environmental aspects of minerals and metals. The Consumption and Production Unit is looking for a consultant specifically to support tasks related to the implementation of UNEA resolution 6/5 supporting the establishment of the digital knowledge hub compiling best practices and assist with the development on capacity building opportunities on environmental aspects of minerals and metals. In addition, the consultant will be tasked to strengthen engagement with the Africa region and draft proposals for mobilization of funding at country and regional level on the mining value chain. Tasks will include the following:
• Manage the Digital Knowledge Hub on Environmental Aspects of Minerals and Metals, including updating of resources, liaising with relevant stakeholders and engaging Communities of Practice.
• Assist with the development of capacity building workshops and trainings on priority areas such as governance, value chain aspects, tailings and mine closure.
• Support the development of project applications for international funds.
• Draft proposals for mobilization of funding at country and regional level on the mining value chain.
• Support in preparing background documents, internal and external briefs, meeting summaries as well as communication activities, as requested.

Qualifications/special skills

A master's degree in environmental policy, economics, public policy, international relations, environmental, mining or chemical engineering, environmental economics, law, or related area. A first degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. At least three years demonstrated experience in the mining sector, environmental protection or related areas. Previous experience on project management is desirable. Previous experience with international organizations is an advantage. Key Competencies:
• Proven knowledge and experience in responsible mining, environmental sustainability and circular economy principles.
• Strong expertise in policy development, stakeholder engagement, and facilitating consultations, particularly in the Africa region.
• Demonstrated skills in drafting high-quality reports, project documents, and grant proposals.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and interpersonal skills to engage with diverse stakeholders effectively.
• Solid project management capabilities, including setting objectives, meeting deadlines, and delivering impactful results.
• Commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on environmental governance and extractive sector trends.

Languages

Fluency in English is required. Working knowledge of French and/or Spanish an advantage.

Additional Information

Not available.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS' BANK ACCOUNTS.