This is what I observed having engaged in series of related projects in the past four years. Inspired by Mfon, I recently took the The World Bank’s Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) course. A very insightful learning experience with relatable case studies.
The course avails practical scenarios of how the World Bank exercises its due diligence on projects from planning to implementation to monitoring.
My Takeaways
1. Proportionality:
The concept of proportionality in E&S provides clear guidance to conduct checks commensurate to the context of a given project. What works in Nigeria might not even crawl in Germany.
2. Mitigation Hierarchy:
Project impact mitigation must start with avoidance to minimisation to mitigation. Offset should always be the last option on the table.
3. Stakeholder Engagement:
I’d say this is the most important component of E&S. Engaging and managing a diverse group of people requires more than just grammar. Skills like communication, negotiation and persuasion are critical to get people with varying interests do what you know is right.
The ESF course is a must-take for sustainability professionals. Have you taken the course yet?
Share your experience with others.
Written by Babajide Oluwase