UNEP post conflict environmental recovery guidance
Development of an implementation plan to prepare technical guidance for collecting data on environmental damage associated with armed conflict
Project snapshot
Region: Global
Dates: 21 August – 20 November 2024
Partners: UNEP, ERM
Funding sources: UNEP
The NICOLE Foundation worked with UNEP to design a practical, inclusive implementation plan for UNEA Resolution 6/12, outlining the process for developing technical guidance on collecting environmental damage data in conflict-affected areas.
Why this work matters
Armed conflicts cause widespread environmental damage, impacting air, water, soil and waste. Destruction of industrial facilities, utilities and infrastructure can result in chemical spills, water pollution and hazardous waste, threatening people, ecosystems and biodiversity.
The escalation of conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza and Sudan has underscored the urgent need for coordinated, science-based approaches to environmental protection during and after conflict. In February 2024, the UN Environment Assembly adopted Resolution 6/12, which calls on states to strengthen environmental assistance and recovery in affected areas.
To help operationalise this resolution, UNEP engaged the NICOLE Foundation to prepare an implementation plan for developing state-of-the-art technical guidance. Drawing on its global expert network and project management experience, the Foundation developed a roadmap to take the concept from resolution to actionable guidance.
Our approach
Activities delivered
Preparation of concept note and implementation plan: Conducted a literature review of existing methodologies, standards and guidance. Held subject matter expert consultations with UNEP specialists, NGOs, and private sector consultants in the fields of digital transformation, post-conflict impact assessment, citizen science, analytical chemistry, remedial measures, and stakeholder engagement.
Identification of key stakeholders: Proposed a broad, inclusive consultation process involving government agencies, international organisations, NGOs, academic institutions and other relevant actors.
Development of workplan and timeline: Outlined the full process for UNEP and its implementing partner, including consultation, editing and clearance, Member State updates, publication, and launch in time for UNEA7 (December 2025).
Draft terms of reference: Prepared TORs for an implementing partner to deliver the steps set out in the plan.
Results and impact
The compressed timeline required rapid mobilisation of experts and clear delegation within the project team. Success relied on early partner briefings, clearly defined roles, and a pragmatic approach over perfection.
Key achievements
Delivered a detailed, practical implementation plan for developing technical guidance, including proposals for digitalising key components.
Facilitated an inclusive consultation framework to ensure broad expert and stakeholder input.
Our partners perspective
‘The NICOLE Foundation has played a pivotal role in shaping UNEP’s approach to assessing and responding to conflict-related environmental damage… Their facilitation of initial expert consultations – engaging UNEP specialists, NGOs, and other experts – has enriched our understanding of best practices in digital data management, impact assessments, and environmental recovery.’ Atila Uras, Head of Response and Recovery Unit, UNEP
Closing statement
This project provided the roadmap for creating robust, science-based guidance on environmental data collection in conflict-affected areas – setting the stage for the proof-of-concept work and future full-scale implementation.
Related project
Following this work, the NICOLE Foundation was commissioned by UNEP to deliver a proof of concept for the proposed technical guidance.
Read the follow-on case study: Preparations for developing technical guidance for environmental data collection in conflict zones [link].
The NICOLE Foundation welcomes collaboration with partners and funders to advance projects like these.
Supported Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs):
