The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development strives for more balanced development by addressing the economic, social and environmental dimensions holistically. The momentum set forth by this agenda provides an historic opportunity for reducing inequality and closing gender gaps. Gender, The Environment and Sustainable Development in Asia and the Pacific examines the intersections between gender and the environment at the household, work, community and policy levels, particularly in the spheres of food security and agriculture, energy, water, fisheries and forestry, with a view to providing strategic entry points for policy interventions. Based on a grounded study of the reality in the Asia-Pacific region, this report assembles good practices and policy lessons that could be capitalized on to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Click here for more detial.

SDD​-Gender​-Environment​-report.pdf (4 MB)

This technical report explains priority issues for the management of water resources in the Mekong Delta across Cambodia and Viet Nam. The issues identified include lack of strategic transboundary management plan of flood and drought control, uncoordinated development of water infrastructure and limited monitoring network on hydrological, meteorological and water quality data. This is a joint paper produced by the two countries under the Mekong Integrated Water Resources Management Project. 

MEKONG​-DELTA​-Issue​-paper​-7​-Sep​-17​-for​-web.pdf (3 MB)

The Key Indicators presents the latest statistics on a comprehensive set of economic, financial, social, environmental, and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) indicators for the 48 regional members of the Asian Development Bank. It is designed to serve as a resource for information on development issues across the region for a wide audience, including policy makers, development practitioners, government officials, researchers, students, and the general public.

A key component of this year’s report is a summary of findings from three pilot household surveys to support the development of standardized methods and guidelines for collecting sex-disaggregated data on asset ownership.

Click here for more detial.

key​-indicators​-2017.pdf (6 MB)

This publication describes an innovative financing solution for enhancing both financially bankable as well as environmentally sustainable infrastructure projects. A large financing need challenges climate-adjusted infrastructure in developing Asia, estimated at $26 trillion till 2030. This necessitates crowding-in private sources to meet financing, efficiency, and technology gaps. However, a lack of bankable projects is a major hurdle. This publication suggests one possible innovative financing approach. The Green Finance Catalyzing Facility (GFCF) proposes a blended finance framework for governments and development entities to better leverage development funds for risk mitigation, generate a pipeline of bankable green infrastructure projects, and directly catalyze private finance. The GFCF provides useful inputs for the current debate on mainstreaming green finance into country financial systems.

Click here for more detial.

catalyzing​-green​-finance.pdf (9 MB)

At the global level in 2015 countries set in motion the most far reaching and ambitious development agenda of our time, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. In Asia and the Pacific, countries have already begun translating this ambitious agenda into action and many have already set up the national architecture for coordinating and promoting the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, the policy transformations required to put countries on track to achieve the SDGs have yet to take shape across this or any other region. Business as usual policies and investments are locking countries into unsustainable pathways that will create a gap between ambition and action.

Click here for more detial.

Final SDG Roadmap​_Updated Logo.pdf (631 KB)

The report presents the SDG baseline for the Asia and the Pacific both at the regional and sub-regional levels for selected targets of each SDG. The main objective of the Report is to highlight critical gaps and challenges of the region in achieving the SDGs and inform inter-governmental and inter-agency regional decision making in support of implementing the 2030 development agenda in the region.

The report is organized in three parts:

• Part I provides a regional snapshot of progress since 2000 (starting of the MDGs) and acceleration that is required in order for the region to achieve the 16 goals by 2030. This is further elaborated in a dashboard across the target areas, highlighting the size of the gaps between a “business-as-usual” scenario and the required pace of progress by 2030.
• Part II then sets out a more detailed, goal by goal baseline for the region for selected targets, drawing on the latest data available on the proposed global indicators as well as supplementary statistical information.
• Part III concludes by highlighting key findings of the baseline report and the regional vision for transforming official statistics to tackle challenges in meeting the statistics and data requirements for the follow-up and review of the 2030 agenda. It also emphasize critical role of data disaggregation for achieving the leave-no-one-behind ambition of the SDGs.

Click here for more detial.

ESCAP​_SYB2016​_SDG​_baseline​_report.pdf (28 MB)

The G20 Green Finance Synthesis Report adopted at the G20 Leaders Summit in Hangzhou in September 2016 set out seven options identified by the G20 Green Finance Study Group (GFSG) to accelerate the mobilization of green finance. This paper highlights some of the progress made against these seven options in G20 members and internationally since June 2016. Progress described is illustrative and non-exhaustive, drawing on voluntary contributions from GFSG members and a broader review of global trends. While not comprehensive, it provides a useful summary of many of the key developments and the overall progress made to mobilize private capital for green investment.

Progress observed and reported in this paper indicates that momentum is growing in mainstreaming green finance into the architecture and practice of financial and capital markets. This momentum has directly resulted in an increased mobilization of green finance. UN Environment tracks a range of green finance measures including, for example, green financing mobilized, policies, regulations, standards, guidelines, principles and fiscal incentives. This report shows that more measures related to green finance have been introduced since June 2016 compared with any other one-year period since 2000.

Green Finance Progress Report 2017.pdf (2 MB)

Many Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) underutilise tourism as a means to contribute towards the financial sustainability of protected areas. The development of the present guidelines on tourism partnerships and concessions for protected areas is a response to this under-utilized potential and to recent decisions of the CBD on tourism.

Click here for more detial.

2017​-044.pdf (4 MB)

This report draws widely from the diverse experience of landscape partnerships to analyze the challenges and opportunities for businesses and their partners, and lays out critical actions needed by businesses themselves, and by financial institutions, governments and landscape programs, to improve the effectiveness of landscape partnerships and replicate the approach in many more places.

Business​-for​-Sustainable​-Landscapes​-An​-Action​-Agenda​-for​-Sustainable​-Development​-May​-2017.pdf (4 MB)

Big wins for human health, natural resources in switch to energy efficiency:

- Low-carbon technologies aid clean air, save water and cut land use
- 25 billion tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions and 17 million tonnes of particulates a year could be avoided through low-carbon and energy efficiency technologies

report​_green​_technology​_choices​-final​-2​_web​_090517.pdf (5 MB)

This document describes UN Environment’s five-year Freshwater Strategy from 2017 to 2021. As a living document, it is intended to guide work related to freshwater across UN Environment’s divisions, sub-programmes and regional offices, as well as interactions with governments and partners at national, regional and global levels. The Freshwater Strategy supports the implementation of UN Environment’s Medium-Term Strategy and Programme of Work adopted by universal United Nations (UN) membership through the UN Environment Assembly. Coming at a critical time for freshwater in general, and the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in particular, this strategy aims to unlock the potential of integrated collaboration and spur leadership on freshwater issues globally.

Click here for more detial.

UNEP​-full​_report​-170502.pdf (4 MB)

SEI Annual Report 2016

SEI​-Annual​-Report​-2016.pdf (3 MB)

The Guidelines on Public Participation in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) in the Mekong Region have been developed to address the shared concern for increasing meaningful public participation in development planning, in the context of increasing investment projects across the Mekong region. The Guidelines are intended to help stimulate more effective practices in public participation. These Guidelines are also playing an important role in informing the development of national level guidelines on public participation in EIA. This document is intended as a living resource and it is hoped that it will inspire the continued strengthening of EIA policies and practices in each country and across the region, as well as to advance greater regional collaboration and harmonization among Mekong and ASEAN nations.

Click here for more detail.

Regional EIA Guidelines​-Final.pdf (2 MB)

Satellite-based environmental information are innovative solutions that can provide new ways for ADB to serve and address development challenges.

This report summarizes results of the initiative Earth Observation for a Transforming Asia and Pacific (EOTAP), that brought together the European Space Agency (ESA) and ADB to promote and demonstrate satellite Earth Observation in support of ADB’s investments in its developing member countries (DMCs).

Click here for more detail.

earth​-observation​-asia​-pacific.pdf (13 MB)

As our population continues to grow, so does the pressure on our finite and fragile resources. Yet that threat can be turned into an opportunity to deliver the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This report highlights the massive potential of using increased efficiency as a costeffective way to protect resources, tackle climate change and reduce our environmental footprint, while boosting economic growth, employment and development.

resource​_efficiency​_report​_march​_2017​_web​_res.pdf (22 MB)

Over the past decade, ASEAN has signed Mutual Recognition Arrangements (MRAs) in seven occupations, all designed to facilitate professional mobility within the region.

MRAs are not easy to operationalize, however. Despite progress in key areas, Member States face complex challenges as they move toward full implementation. This report is the latest in a project by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Migration Policy Institute (MPI) to improve understanding of the barriers to the free movement of professionals within ASEAN and to support the development of strategies to overcome these hurdles. The report draws on the insights of nearly 400 ASEAN and Member State officials, private-sector employers, training directors, and others who participated in focus group discussions, meetings, and surveys convened by ADB and MPI.

Click here for more detail.

long​-road​-ahead.pdf (2 MB)

On 25 September 2015, the 193 Member States of the United Nations adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development – including 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 targets – committing the international community to end poverty and hunger and achieve sustainable development between 2016 and 2030. Six months later, a global indicator framework for the SDGs – comprising 230 indicators - was identified to monitor the 169 targets and track progress, becoming the foundation of the SDGs’ accountability structure. The number of indicators - four times greater than for the MDGs - represents an immense challenge for countries. FAO - proposed ‘custodian’ UN agency for 21 SDG indicators and a contributing agency for six more – can assist countries in meeting the new monitoring challenges. This publication presents FAO’s work in developing and strengthening indicators that measure food, agriculture and the sustainable use of natural resources, shining a light on the 21 indicators of FAO custodianship. It describes how the organization can support countries track progress and make the connection between monitoring and policymaking to achieve the SDGs.

Click here for more detail.

a​-i6919e.pdf (2 MB)

National and sub-national policies that create the enabling conditions for integrated landscape management still need to be put in place in most areas of the world. Thankfully, policymakers have a large set of tools at their disposal, many of which are very low or no-cost. Further, there are simple steps that can be taken right away by individual agencies or localities to put ILM-friendly policy implementation on the horizon.

Public​-Policy​-Guidelines​-for​-ILM​-January​-2017​-Final.pdf (2 MB)

South Asia, comprising eight countries including Bangladesh, Maldives and Nepal, is affected by a range of natural disasters including floods, glacial lake outburst floods, storm surges, droughts, cyclones and heavy precipitation. These disasters take a huge toll as they displace thousands of people every year. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has predicted that slow-onset and sudden-onset disasters will increase in severity and frequency, threatening lives and livelihoods across the region. To provide evidence to this issue and assess these trends, the International Organization for Migration has produced an assessment study on climate change, environmental degradation and migration in South Asia. The study contains a review of literature and policies, as well as findings from field research conducted in Bangladesh, Maldives and Nepal. To ensure that climate migration is comprehensively addressed, the study also contains model plans of action ? developed after a consultative process at the national level ? that can be implemented.

environmental​_degradation​_nexus​_in​_south​_asia.pdf (12 MB)

This policy report reviews the current status of waste management in Myanmar and confirms that it remains at a preliminary stage, attributed to challenges at both the national and city levels resulting from a range of technical, social, economic and institutional constraints. Accordingly, the overall guidance of this report is the need for Myanmar to develop a national waste management strategy to serve as a principal framework for waste policies and practices across the country; such a strategy should be designed with a view towards supporting city-level strategies and actions, and focus on the piloting and execution of concrete actions led by Township and City Development Committees. In order to ensure that these national and city waste management strategies are implemented in a coordinated, cost-effective and efficient manner, the report concludes by providing a number of policy recommendations.

Click here for more detail.

POLICY REPORT​_​_Myanmar.final​_.2017.01.31rev.pdf (7 MB)

The Australian Government’s Mekong Business Initiative (MBI) was launched in early 2015 to catalyze private sector-led innovation and growth in the emerging Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) market. It is an advisory facility financed jointly by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Australia’s Department of Foreign A?airs and Trade (DFAT), for a total of $10.5 million. MBI, which is managed by ADB, focuses on Cambodia, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), Myanmar, and Vietnam (collectively–CLMV) because these countries are linked geographically; they have similar natural resources and agrarian economies (although Vietnam is more industrialized); and they have strong potential for economic growth but need to improve the environment for private enterprise and innovation to catch up with their ASEAN counterparts.

To achieve MBI’s expected outcome of an improved business enabling environment for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), MBI carries out its activities through subprojects under three pillars: improved public-private dialogue on private sector development (PSD) policies and regulations, a more robust financing environment, and a more dynamic ecosystem for innovation.

Click here for more detial.

2016​-MBI​-Annual​-report.pdf (10 MB)

The growth rate of these crimes is astonishing. The reportthat follows reveals for the first time that this new area ofcriminality has diversified and skyrocketed to become theworld’s fourth largest crime sector in a few decades, growingat 2-3 times the pace of the global economy. INTERPOL andUNEP now estimate that natural resources worth as much asUSD 91 billion to USD 258 billion annually are being stolenby criminals, depriving countries of future revenues anddevelopment opportunities.

The​_rise​_of​_environmental​_crime​_​_A​_growing​_threat​_to​_natural​_resources​_peace,​_development​_and​_security​-2016environmental​_crimes.pdf.pdf (9 MB)

This guidance note aims to support Government counterparts and strengthen UNDP Country Offices’ and implementing partners’ capacities to plan, design and implement projects for municipal solid waste management (MSWM) in crisis or post-crisis settings, as part of UNDP’s early recovery response.

The Guidance Note focuses in particular on livelihoods recovery and local government service delivery. It is assumed that readers do not have extensive experience in the area of MSWM. The guidance note is intended to inform UNDP Country Offices and implementing partners on the type of programmes UNDP could support in the area of MSWM in an early recovery setting, and provide information on how to plan, design and implement such projects.

Click here for more detail.

GuidanceNote​_Solid​_Waste​_Management.pdf (2 MB)

In 2015, world leaders set out to defy the odds, committing themselves to achieve 17 ambitious and far-reaching Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. This was not the first time the world had attempted to raise the trajectory of human progress by employing Global Goals. In 2000, world leaders blazed a trail by adopting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The MDGs were the first attempt to use Global Goals to capture and advance the shared interest we all have, in a more just, peaceful and prosperous world.

Click here for more detail.

From the MDGs to SD4All.pdf (3 MB)

The Mekong River in the Economy report aims to reframe the debate around development and river resources management, guiding policy makers towards increased sustainability as well as continued growth.

The two are not incompatible, but interdependent. The report lays out the benefits of integrating planning in a series of short narratives, highlighting the major risks and opportunities for different sectors within each Lower Mekong Basin country and illustrating how one actor’s development decisions are felt through the entire river system.

WWF 2016​-Mekong River in the Economy.pdf (6 MB)

This UNDP-World Bank Report pulls together the main lessons learned from the MDG Reviews for the UN system and for its engagement at the country level, which took place at the UN System Chief Executives Board for Coordination (CEB). The Reviews, which brought together UN and World Bank Group staff, systematically identified the country situation, the bottlenecks to MDG attainment, and potential solutions to be implemented. Since many MDGs have been absorbed into the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), many of the observations and solutions provided could prove useful to the implementation of the SDGs.

Click here for more detail.

Transitioning from the MDGs to the SDGs.pdf (3 MB)

Cambodia is a country rich in natural resources that sustain the wellbeing of the nation's population and contribute to the country's economy. It has the largest areas of contiguous and intact forests in mainland Southeast Asia. Millions of people in Cambodia, many rural and poor, depend directly on the natural environment for their daily basic food, water, energy needs and income generation.

Click here for detail.

Source: WWF-Cambodia

mapping​_and​_valuing​_ecosystem​_services​_in​_mondulkiri​_full​_report​_6​_9​_2016​_1.pdf (7 MB)

Integrated landscape initiatives often involve multi-stakeholder platforms. These are meant to enable discussions, negotiations and joint planning between stakeholders from various sectors in a given landscape. With growing investmentsn such platforms, there is a need for simple and affordable methods to aid their planning, monitoring and evaluation (PME). This report presents such a method, providing practical guidelines for participatory PME workshops based on three tools.

Guidelines ​- Participatory Planning, Monitoring, Evaluation of Multistakeholder Platforms in Integrated Landscape Initiatives ​- 2016 Trobenos Int..pdf (2 MB)

Launched in 1998, the East-West Economic Corridor—encompassing the less developed provinces of Myanmar, Lao PDR, Thailand, and Vietnam—is one of the flagship initiatives of the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) in order to improve the economic situation of these areas. Although countries in the EWEC have recently experienced sheer economic growth, unfortunately this growth is unbalanced with the industrial sector growing faster than the agricultural sector, contributing to worsening income inequality. This problem needs to be addressed and tackled urgently as the majority of population depends largely on agriculture, which is declining in its importance. Taken this issue into account, this comprehensive document focuses on three specific agricultural value chains in three target provinces - a rice value chain in Khammouane province of Lao PDR, a coffee value chain in Quang Tri province of Vietnam, and a maize value chain in Kayin State of Myanmar – in order to address prospects and constraints for value chain development, examine costs and margin for each actor in the value chain, and suggest actions to minimize the constraints and maximize the prospects.

Mekong​_Development​_Report​_r261016.pdf (12 MB)

This film highlights the environmental challenges facing China's Southwestern province of Yunnan as well as ongoing efforts to protect the unique biodiversity in the province's Xishuangbanna prefecture.

 

Myanmar Environmental Policies and Legislation are available at:

      -Myanmar Parliament website

      -Mekong Law Center website

Environmental laws, environment related laws, environment related regulations and regulation interpretaton of The People's Republic of China are available on Ministry of Environmental Protection website.

Source: Ministry of Environmental Protection.

Thailand Environmental Policies and Legislation are available to download from:

      -Pollutional Control Department website, MoNRE.

      -Office of the Council of State website

      -Mekong Regional Law Center

These are law, decree and order related to Vietname Environmental Policies and Legislation. All are in PDF format. Most are in English (unofficial translation) and some are in Vietnamese.

 

Sources: REDD Vietname

Vietname​_Decree​_on​_administrative​_violations​_of​_forest​_mgt​_forest​_protection​_and​_development​_and​_forest​_products​_mgt​_11​_Nov​_2013​_Vn.pdf (3 MB) Vietname​_Decree​_on​_collection​_of​_landuse​_fees​_03​_Dec​_2004​_Vn.pdf (262 KB) Vietname​_Decree​_on​_forest​_fire​_prevention​_and​_control​_16​_Jan​_2006​_Vn.pdf (368 KB) Vietname​_Decree​_on​_organization​_and​_management​_of​_the​_special​_use​_forest​_system​_24​_Dec​_2010​_En.pdf (131 KB) Vietname​_Decree​_on​_organization​_and​_operation​_of​_the​_forest protection​_service​_16​_Oct​_2006​_En.pdf (113 KB) Vietname​_Decree​_on​_the​_implementation​_of​_law​_on​_land​_29​_Oct​_2004​_En.pdf (411 KB) Vietname​_Decree​_on​_the​_implementation​_of​_the​_Law​_on​_forest​_protection​_and​_development​_03​_Mar​_2006​_En.pdf (204 KB) Vietname​_Decree​_on​_the​_principles​_and​_methods​_of​_determining​_prices​_of​_forests​_of​_different​_types​_28​_Mar​_2007​_En.pdf (89 KB) Vietname​_Law​_on​_Boidiversity​_28​_Nov​_2008​_En.pdf (116 KB) Vietname​_Law​_on​_Environmental​_Protection​_12​_Dec​_2005​_En.pdf (346 KB) Vietname​_Law​_on​_Forest​_Protection​_and​_Development​_14​_Dec​_2004​_En.pdf (155 KB) Vietname​_Law​_on​_Land​_10​_Dec​_2003​_En.pdf (443 KB) Vietname​_Law​_on​_Royalties​_04​_Dec​_2009​_En.pdf (116 KB)

These are law, decree and order related to Cambodia Environmental Policies and Legislation. All are in PDF format and in Khmer but some are available in English (unofficial translation).

 

Sources: The National Assembly of The Kingdom of Cambodia

Cambodia​_Law​_on​_Environment​_Protection​_and​_Management​_of​_Natural​_Resources​_18​_Nov​_1996​_Kh.pdf (363 KB) Cambodia​_Law​_on​_Environment​_Protection​_and​_Management​_of​_Natural​_Resources​_18​_Nov​_1996​_En.pdf (53 KB) Cambodia​_Law​_on​_Land​_30​_Aug​_2001​_En.pdf (351 KB) Cambodia​_Law​_on​_Land​_30​_Aug​_2001​_Kh.pdf (3 MB) Cambodia​_Law​_on​_Forestry​_31​_Aug​_2002​_En.pdf (212 KB) Cambodia​_Law​_on​_Forestry​_31​_Aug​_2002​_Kh.pdf (2 MB) Cambodia​_Law​_on​_Water​_Resource​_Management​_29​_Jun​_2007​_Kh.pdf (705 KB) Cambodia​_Law​_on​_Water​_Resource​_Management​_29​_Jun​_2007​_En.pdf (143 KB) Cambodia​_Law​_on​_Natural​_Protected​_Areas​_15​_Feb​_2008​_Kh.pdf (2 MB) Cambodia​_Law​_on​_Natural​_Protected​_Areas​_15​_Feb​_2008​_En.pdf (219 KB) Cambodia​_Law​_on​_Biodiversity​_Safety​_18​_Feb​_2008​_Kh.pdf (1 MB)

These are law, decree and order related to Lao PDR Environmental Policies and Legislation. All are in PDF format and in Laos but some are available in English (unofficial translation). 

Sources: The National Assembly of The Lao PDR

Lao​_Law​_on​_Water​_and​_Water​_Resources​_11​_Oc​_1996​_La.pdf (374 KB) Lao​_Law​_on​_Agriculture​_10​_Oct​_1998​_La.pdf (567 KB) Lao​_Law​_on​_Land​_21​_Oct​_2003​_La.pdf (475 KB) Lao​_Law​_on​_Forestry​_24​_Dec​_2007​_La.pdf (400 KB) Lao​_Law​_on​_Plant​_Quarantine​_9​_Dec​_2008​_La.pdf (307 KB) Lao​_Law​_on​_wildlife​_24​_Dec​_2008​_La.pdf (235 KB) Lao​_Law​_on​_Fishrey​_9​_Jul​_2009​_La.pdf (308 KB) Lao​_Decree​_on​_EIA​-Decree​-112​_2010​_En.pdf (168 KB) Lao​_Decree​_on​_EIA​-Decree​-112​_2010​_La.pdf (401 KB) Lao​_Law​_on​_Mining​_16​_Jan​_2012​_La.pdf (1 MB) Lao​_PM​_Order​-No13NA​_on​_halting​_concessions​_Jun​_2012​_La.pdf (618 KB) Lao​_Law​_on​_Envinromental​_Protection​_RevisedVersion​_18​_Dec​_2012​_La.pdf (1 MB) Lao​_Law​_on​_Environmental​_Protection​_RevisedVersion​_18​_Dec​_2012​_En.pdf (N/A)

This publication captures the proceedings of the Second Asian Judges Symposium: "Natural Capital and the Rule of Law" held 3–5 December 2013 in Manila, the Philippines.

 

natural​-capital​-and​-rule​-law.pdf (2 MB)

This report provides an introduction to land evaluation systems, strategies and tools necessary for “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.” The text focuses strongly on how to better match land use with its sustainable potential, in order to reduce the amount of land required to meet human needs, minimize land degradation, and cost-effectively restore already degraded lands. The report provides information that private landowners can use to increase long-term productivity and profitability, while at the same time addressing global objectives defined through land-related Sustainable Development Goals, and particularly 15.3 (land degradation neutrality).

land​_resources​_full​_report​_english.pdf (3 MB)

Between January and August 2015, a series of animal mortality and human morbidity events in PreahVihear Province, were detected by the LACANET wildlife disease surveillance network. Initial findingsraised suspicions towards a link to pesticide use. Given the morbidity and mortality risks for humans,livestock, and endangered species, a thorough investigation was initiated. This document reports theresults of this investigation.

This report was produced by the Wildlife Conservation Society with contribution from Dr MathieuPruvot (WCS), Alistair Mould (WCS), and Dr Mei Castor (US-CDC). Follow the link for more detial about WCS Cambodia.

Carbofuran poisoning at the interface between wildlife, livestock and humans, June 2016.pdf (730 KB)

The State of Environmental Migration series gathers the expertise of researchers, students and professionals to provide an annual assessment of the changing nature and dynamics of environment- and climate-related migration throughout the world.

state​_environmental​_migration​_2014​_0​_0.pdf (5 MB)

This eighth annual performance report of the UNDP Global Environmental Finance (UNDP-GEF) Unit has three primary goals: one, to provide a snapshot of progress made toward multiple development and environment benefits by projects in each region in 2015 – see Demonstrating Impact; two, to highlight progress made in addressing women, work and the environment – see Gender in Action; and three, to demonstrate the services UNDP provides to the vertical funds that it is accredited to, in particular the Global Environment Facility family of funds – see UNDP-GEF Unit. In addition, development and environment benefits that have been realized through projects and that can be reasonably aggregated at the regional and/or global levels are presented in a series of infographics.  This report demonstrates how investments in the environment in 141 countries are already delivering development benefits. 

Click here for more detail.

2015 Annual Performance Report of UNDP​-Supported GEF​-Financed Projects​_DigitalFile.pdf (6 MB)

The assessment presented in this report shows where and how Myanmar’s natural capital contributes to clean and reliable drinking water sources, reduced risks from floods inland and storms along the coasts, and to maintaining the functioning of reservoirs and dams by preventing erosion. 

natural​_connections​_natural capital Myanmar.pdf (7 MB)

The Open Ocean Assessment provides a baseline review of issues linking human well-being with the status of the openocean through the themes of governance, climate change, ocean ecosystems, fisheries, pollution, and integratedassessment of the human-ocean nexus. It uses indices and indicators where data exist, in many cases with futureprojections due to global climate change, complemented by expert scientific assessment of numerous low certaintybut potentially high impact issues where global ocean monitoring is inadequate.

Volume5​_The Open Ocean​_Status and Trends.pdf (2 MB)

This report was prepared for the Asia EIA Conference 2016 organised on 10 May by the Ministry of the Environment, Japan (MOEJ). The conference was held under the theme of enhancing EIA as a sustainable development planning tool in Asia in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and in cooperation with the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA).

Click here for more detail.

Strengthening​_EIA​_in​_Asia​_2016​_IGES.pdf (3 MB)

The SSI Review: Standards and the Blue Economy takes a deep dive into the market and performance trends of the 9 most prevalent seafood certification schemes operating in the wild catch and aquaculture sectors. The Review provides a reference point for buyers, producers, policy makers and consumers in deciding how best to apply voluntary standards in their own decision-making processes.

ssi​-blue​-economy​-2016.pdf (20 MB)

For the past 5 decades, ASEAN and ADB have both supported poverty reduction, sustainable development, and regional cooperation and integration in Southeast Asia. This publication provides an overview of cooperation between ADB and ASEAN, and how it has contributed to a more connected, competitive, and integrated region.

ASEAN–ADB Cooperation Toward The ASEAN Community.pdf (N/A)

A Dynamic Strategy: responding to change and uncertainty

The Basin Development Strategy for 2016-2020 (henceforth BDS 2016-2020) replaces the 2011-2015 Strategy. This updating reflects the dynamic challenges encountered in the Lower Mekong Basin (LMB).  The Mekong, one of the world’s greatest rivers, is an exceptionally complex system with high intra-annual and inter-annual flow variability caused by the Southwest Monsoon, bringing both great risks and opportunities.  It is also a rapidly changing river because of its contribution to the rapid economic development of the basin countries, but also as a consequence of this development on the river itself, including the impacts of increasing population, urbanisation and industrialisation. Adding to these on-going changes are uncertain futures, particularly as a consequence of climate change.

Click here for detail.

MRC​-BDP​-strategy​-complete​-final​-02.16.pdf (3 MB)

Natural capital refers to the stocks of the Earth's natural assets and resources, such as soil, water, air and biodiversity.

This Guide for Environmental Practitioners from UNEP is a guidance document which's presents eight steps to completing Natural Capital Assessments to inform decision making that supports sustainable economic growth.

Natural Capital Assessments ​- Guide For Enviro Practictioners ​- UNEP 2016.pdf (3 MB)

Recognizing the value of large marine ecosystems (LMEs) and other transboundary water systems (open ocean,groundwater aquifers, lakes and reservoirs, and river basins), their continued degradation, the fragmented approachto their management, and the need for better prioritization of interventions, the Global Environment Facility (GEF)embarked on the Transboundary Waters Assessment Programme (TWAP) from 2009 to 2015. TWAP objectives wereto undertake global assessments of the five transboundary water systems to assist GEF and other internationalorganizations set priorities for interventions; and develop formal institutional partnerships for periodic assessmentsof these systems.

Volume4​_Large Marine Ecosystems​_Status and Trends.pdf (5 MB)

The year 2015 marks the 20th anniversary of the Mekong Agreement on Cooperation for the Sustainable Development of the Mekong River Basin. Signed in Chiang Rai on April 5, 1995, the agreement between Cambodia, Lao PDR, Thailand and Viet Nam

20th​-year​-MRC​-2016.pdf (6 MB)

Myanmar is at a critical crossroads. With many environmental assets, and industrial pressure only beginning to develop, it could effectively form policies and regulations that ensure sustainable growth and conservation of key natural resources. This paper aims to identify current and future environmental problems in Myanmar, the pressures underpinning them, and the policy measures that can manage them.

ADB 2015​- Achieving Environmental Sustainability Myanmar.pdf (2 MB)

Cambodia Climate Change Action Plan for Environment Sectors 2016 – 2018

climate change action plan for moe 2016​-2018​-en​-final​-new.pdf (2 MB)

This ‘Strategic Plan 2016 – 2020’ provides theframework that will guide MI’s work to focus on threeregional development themes, together with the issuesand strategies it has identified as being cross cuttingand relevant to all three themes. The plan next setsout the approach that will be taken for monitoring andevaluating performance, and for integrating continuouslearning into all activities. The concluding sectiongives an overview of the institutional framework thatwill guide how MI organizes its work and resources.A final institutional goal defines MI’s commitment tostrive continually for increased internal capacity toachieve development results.

MI​_Strategic​_Plan​_2016​_2020.pdf (3 MB)

To achieve the SDGs by 2030 will require a radically different paradigm of development than was applied to the Millennium Development Goals. A new approach that breaks down sectoral barriers, capitalizes on synergies in land uses and human development, and strengthens coordination and participation of a wide range of stakeholders is needed. Integrated landscape management (ILM) is that approach. This paper makes the case for how we get there.

LPFN​_WhitePaper​_112415c​_lowres.pdf (880 KB)

Goods and services provided by functioning ecosystems contribute directly and indirectly to human welfare and therefore represent a significant, yet often uncounted, portion of the total economic value of the landscape we live in. While there are many ways that humans can value their landscape, the ability to estimate the economic value of ecosystem goods and services provided by a landscape is increasingly recognized as a valuable tool in weighing trade-offs in environmental decision-making and land-use planning.

EcoSystemMappingReport​_vietnam​_FINAL.pdf (5 MB)

Migration Initiatives is the main publication illustrating both the wide scope of IOM activities and the impact that the Organization aims to have in migration governance worldwide. For the first time ever, Migration Initiatives 2016 is structured around the Migration Governance Framework principles and objectives to provide a comprehensive look at what IOM stands for and its contribution to improved migration governance for sustainable development. Accompanying the overview of IOM planned actions for 2016, Migration Initiatives features a compilation of funding requirements per country, region and sector of activities. Migration Initiatives sums up IOM planned interventions for 2016 in a comprehensive, innovative and looking-forward manner and defines the Organization’s activities to promote well-governed migration for the benefit of all.

migration​_initiatives2016.pdf (8 MB)

This report aims to demonstrate the compelling need to increase investments in natural capital in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) and identifies actions now being taken regionally and nationally to manage natural capital. It also proposes a guiding framework for promoting investments and actions by GMS countries to secure natural capital and thus ensure sustainable and inclusive growth in the subregion.

Investing in Natural Capital Report.pdf (3 MB)

This ADB report features Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) Urban Development Strategic Framework, 2015 – 2022. It sets out a broad framework to encourage and facilitate a coordinated approach to the development of urban areas throughout the GMS. The framework includes three pillars: (i) planning and development of key urban areas, (ii) planning and development of border areas, and (iii) capacity development in urban planning and management. Underlying these are four crosscutting themes—green development and climate change resilience, disaster risk management, inclusive development, and competitiveness. The GMS Urban Development Strategic Framework also provides the context for ongoing and planned projects in the six GMS member countries.

gms​-urbandev​-framework​-2015​-2022.pdf (4 MB)

The booklet has five chapters. Chapter One presents the country progress in achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Chapter Two is a regional and country overview of data on production, trade in goods and services, and foreign direct investment. Chapters Three and Four compile indicators in logistics performance, doing business, competitiveness and trade facilitation. Lastly, Chapter Five provides indicators for connectivity, focusing on the transport and information and communications technology sectors.

gms​-statistics​-1st​-ed.pdf (1 MB)

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are the centrepiece of a new global agreement on what society seeks to become over the next fifteen years. This agreement envisages a world free from poverty and deprivation, and where the fundamental conditions for human prosperity—healthy ecosystems, a stable climate, and a clean environment—are safely maintained. However, the SDGs do not offer a plan for how to achieve such laudable objectives. This book joins a timely discussion on how the SDGs can be implemented. It deals with how the globally agreed goals can be adapted to national and local circumstances, and what actions can pave the way for achieving them. More specifically, the book focuses on how reforms in governance—the way in which authority is exercised and decisions are taken and executed—can bring the SDG agenda into action.

Click here for more detail.

00​_All​_Achieving​_the​_SDGs.pdf (4 MB)

This Report examines existing laws, policies, regulations, and guidelines in each Lower Mekong country, and relevant literature, to answer the following four questions :

• What are the specific provisions for public participation in EIA?
• To what degree are the existing national EIA frameworks already harmonized across the Lower Mekong countries?
• What major gaps exist, particularly with respect to public participation processes?
• What specific recommendations can be made for strengthening the EIA process nationally and regionally, specifically with respect to meaningful public participation and stakeholder engagement?

This Report also examines some regional EIA approaches of the Mekong River Commission, as well as the Asian Development Bank‘s Safeguard Policy Statement (2009).

Environmental Impact Assessment Comparative Analysis In Lower Mekong Countries.pdf (4 MB)

Regional Integration is stepping up in Asia. The launch of the ASEAN community by the end of 2015 and the possible establishment of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) signal a new era of deepened regional integration. These and other regional initiatives will influence how Asia develops over the coming decades.

Click here for more detail.

IGESGreeningIntergrationAsiaV2015​_eng​_web.pdf (3 MB)

This brief promotes the value of strategic environmental assessment (SEA) to assist GMS decision makers to more effectively balance economic, social, and environmental considerations early in development planning processes. It draws on lessons from the GMS Core Environment Program’s (CEP) experience applying SEA for energy, land use, and subregional strategic planning processes.

SEA in the GMS.pdf (1 MB)

Myanmar Ecotourism Policy and Management Strategy intends to use ecotourism as a driving force to strengthen the management of Myanmar’s expanding protected areanetwork. It aims to engage all stakeholders to implement ecotourism policies, business models, and management approaches that protect the unique ecosystems of Myanmar, and celebrate indigenous groups that havemade these special areas their home. 

Myanmar Ecotourism Policy and Management Strategy.pdf (7 MB)

These proceedings report the result of a sub-regional consultation on the existence and effectiveness of environmental monitoring systems for fisheries and aquaculture in the Lower Mekong basin. The document also includes a baseline assessment of environmental monitoring systems in Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam, and the report of a regional workshop to discuss the assessments findings and future steps to improve an environmental monitoring and early warning system that will improve climate change adaptation in fisheries and aquaculture in the area.

FAO​-Developing an Environmental Monitoring System.pdf (2 MB)

This ADB report features the Greater Mekong Subregion Regional Investment Framework Implementation Plan, 2014-2018 (RIF-IP). It identifies a robust pipeline of 92 high priority projects from among the more than 200 projects included in the Greater Mekong Subregion Regional Investment Framework, 2013-2022 (RIF). The total cost of the priority projects in the RIF-IP is estimated at US$30.1 billion, or approximately US$20 billion less than all of the projects included in the RIF.

gms​-rif​-ip​-2014​-2018.pdf (551 KB)

This guide is designed to stimulate and provide a clear process for the use of maps in cross-sectoral collaborations to locate, design and monitor interventions in rural landscapes.

SpatialPlanningGuide​_10November2014.pdf (5 MB)

Aimed at sustainable land management researchers and practitioners, the method presented here uses photographs to track land-use changes in order to evaluate the progress and effectiveness of specific management practices. The user guide includes an overview of ground-based photo-monitoring, its capabilities and limitations and provides suggestions for those interested in adopting the methodology.

GBPM​_UsersGuide​_10November2014.pdf (5 MB)

This manual will aid trainers of sustainable land management (SLM) professionals to organize and conduct effective courses on monitoring and evaluation (M&E) from an integrated landscape management perspective.

This brief summarizes major achievements, challenges, and key recommendations from a review of Viet Nam’s payments for forest environmental services (PFES) program. Led by the Center for International Forestry Research and Viet Nam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, with support from the GMS Core Environment Program, the brief was developed as resource for a national PFES review workshop held in Hanoi on 17 September 2014.

PFES in Vietnam.pdf (3 MB)

This publication features ADB's support to the provincial authorities of Quang Nam in Viet Nam to scale up the implementation of payments for forest environmental services through a technical assistance financed by the Governments of Sweden and Norway. The project pilot-tested two innovations—the group approach and the use of a geographic information system—to speed up payments for forest environmental services planning and implementation in the province. Starting with five villages in Ma Cooih commune, the initiative expanded to include two more communes in the Song Bung 4 watershed. 

scaling​-up​-payments​-forest​-environmental​-services​-vietnam.pdf (5 MB)

This ADB publication features the outcomes of a workshop on Green Freight and Logistics in Asia, co-organized by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Deutsche Gesellschaft für InternationaleZusammenarbeit (GIZ) from 25-27 June, 2014 in Singapore. The workshop was held to promote peer learning and exchange among key stakeholders active in freight and logistics.

Workshop proceeding ​- Green Freight and Logistics in Asia Final.pdf (5 MB)

This report combines information about key ecosystem assets into global maps covering terrestrial and marine realms. The assets included are freshwater resources, soil quality, organic carbon, terrestrial and marine biodiversity, and global fish catch (as a proxy for marine fish stocks). The report builds on a considerable body of work in the fields of natural capital accounting and the mapping of ecosystem services.

Towards a Global Map of Natural Capital ​- Key Ecosystem Assets.pdf (6 MB)

This paper examines four environmental dimensions of energy security—climate change, air pollution, water availability and quality, and land-use change—and the environmental impact of various energy systems. Since all energy sources have an environmental impact, policymakers must begin to incorporate the cost of these negative consequences into energy prices.

Environmental Issues, Climate Changes, and Energy Security in Developing Asia.pdf (208 KB)

During 2013 and 2014, CEP supported Lao PDR’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment’s Pollution Control Department to apply the the Industrial Pollution Projection System (IPPS), a model that estimates pollution intensities for different industries and can be applied to large geographic areas at relatively low effort and expense. IPPS was used to estimate pollution intensities for different industries in all 17 provinces and the results are helping the Government to identify the industries and locations to focus pollution control efforts on. Training and awareness raising events were held and a summary report was produced. The results are also being used as a key input into the development of a Pollution Control Strategy for the country, which is also being supported by CEP.

Estimating Industrial Pollution in Lao PDR​_1.PDF (3 MB)

This book is first in a series of a three-volume publication on the environments of the poor, and contains selected papers on Southeast Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific from a conference organized in 2010 by ADB, in cooperation with various development partners and think tank institutes in Asia. The book introduces a spatial approach to poverty, and argues that a triple win -- reducing poverty, protecting the environment, and responding to climate change -- is possible.

environments​-poor​-southeast​-asia.pdf (3 MB)

This brief draws on the findings and key discussions from the 'Workshop on Valuing and Accounting for the Environment in Asia,' which was held in Bangkok 8-10 October, 2013. The brief was compiled by the South Asian Network for Development and Environmental Economics (SANDEE). The Core Environment Program provided funding support for the workshop.

Operationalizing Environmental .pdf (383 KB)

This protected areas report provides an outline of protected areas (PAs) and biodiversity in the Lower Mekong Basin (LMB), and an overview of threats to PAs other than climate change, including land concessions, infrastructure development, illegal activities, and agriculture. The threats posed by climate change to PAs are then reviewed, followed by a series of case studies of climate change impacts, vulnerabilities, and adaptation options in four protected areas: 1) Nong Bong Kai Non Hunting Area – Thailand; 2) Nakai Nam Theun – Lao PDR; 3) Phnom Prich Wildlife Sanctuary – Cambodia; and 4) U Minh Thuong National Park – Vietnam.

Click here for more detail.

mekong​_arcc​_theme​_report​_protected​-areas.pdf (2 MB)

REDD+ is the approach adopted by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from forests. REDD+ stands for reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries, plus conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks (UNFCCC, 2010). If systematically pursued, REDD+ would bring new momentum and new funding to the task of preserving the world’s forests. REDD+ is already delivering important outcomes as it brings further world attention to the conservation of tropical forests, monitoring the state of forests, and the contributions of people living in and around forests.

building​_natural​_capital​_full​_report​_english.pdf (18 MB)

Global cropland is expanding. Changing trends in both the production and consumption of land-based products are increasing pressure on land resources across the globe. This report discusses the need and options to balance consumption with sustainable production. It focuses on land-based products (food, fuels and fibre) and describes methods which enable countries to determine whether their consumption levels exceed sustainable supply capacities. Strategies and measures are outlined which will allow adjusting the policy framework to balance consumption with these capacities.

full​_report​-assessing​_global​_land​_useenglish​_pdf.pdf (5 MB)

This sector assessment, strategy, and road map highlights the Government of Myanmar’s plans and strategies for addressing priority needs for the agriculture, natural resources, and environment sector and identifies possible preliminary areas of international assistance. It assesses key sector development needs by analyzing the strengths, constraints and weaknesses, various risks, and potential threats, as well as the opportunities, including further evolving the development partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

ADB 2013 Myanmar Agriculture, Environment Assement.pdf (5 MB)

This CEP brief summarizes the methodology and lessons learned from a Spatial Multicriteria Assessment (SMCA) recently applied to the GMS Regional Investment Framework. It concludes that SMCA is a valuable tool to help decision makers understand and respond to the economic, environmental, and social risks of investments.  For example, SMCA can assist decision-makers to prioritize investments, determine appropriate land allocation, and plan mitigation measures.

Planning Sustainable Investments in the GMS​_web.pdf (1 MB)

Until now we have put almost no effort in calculating the value of the Borneo forests. It takes the first steps towards quantifying the unseen value of nature in the Heart of Borneo and tells us that with concerted action, a green development pathway is indeed possible, with greater benefits for everybody, including indigenous communities and the poor. It presents a beacon of hope, with conservation, development and economic growth going hand in hand.  In order to implement its message, the real value of natural capital must be reflected in btoh fiscal planning and the prices of goods and services. There must be financial incentives to stimulate the proper husbandry of natural resources, with realistic valuations given to the crucial issue of the growth of low-carbon markets and sustainable, pro-poor economies. Carbon finance through REDD+ can be a key mechanism to safeguard the forests and unlock their true value.  Governments must take the lead and work with civil society, indigenous groups and the private sector to make sustainable forest management financially worthwhile. The Heart of Borneo is an excellent place to begin. We urgently need a new path towards a sustainable future-one which places a true economic value on nature's gifts and the role they play in providing us with the necessities of life. 
 This report will help us to get closer to creating the green economies that will ensure food, water and energy security for all.

heart​_of​_borneo​_green​_economy​_main​_report​_2012.pdf (15 MB)

In the context of Strategy 2020 and in the follow-up to the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), this ADB report provides a coherent overview of ADB environment operations and to articulate how it will step up efforts to help the region achieve a transition to environmentally sustainable growth or green growth. Building on ADB sector and thematic plans, this paper includes a brief review of recent ADB experience in environment operations, and identifies effective approaches for the development of “greener” country partnership strategies, investment projects, and associated knowledge and technical assistance activities. 

ADB Environment Operational Directions 2013​-2020 ​- Green Growth.pdf (911 KB)

This CIFOR Occasional Paper assesses the government of Vietnam’s program of Payments for Forest Environmental Services (PFES), with the aim of providing policy makers with practical policy recommendations for achieving effective, efficient and equitable outcomes. 

Payments for Forest Environmental Services in Vietnam ​- From Policy to Practice.pdf (3 MB)

Prepared for the 20th Anniversary of the GMS, this second edition of the Atlas offers a unique overview of the exquisite beauty and diversity of the subregion’s natural environment. It also highlights the tremendous progress made by the GMS countries, as well as the need to address the increasing risks that they face. 

Access the Atlas here.

This collection of images illustrates the progress and challenges of 20 years of work in the Greater Mekong Subregion. It makes no attempt to focus solely on the work of the Asian Development Bank, or any one partner. It is a celebration of the work of everyone who has labored to make the Greater Mekong Subregion into what it is today.

GMS ​- Twenty Years of Partnership.pdf (6 MB)

This report presents the results of a review of the World Bank's strategic environmental assessment (SEA) experience undertaken by the World Bank learning community the SEA Community of Practice (SEACoP). The review included regional reviews that analyzed the World Bank's SEA experience for all regions in which the Bank is operating. These reviews were complemented by the production of a synthesis and conclusion chapter to draw lessons and good SEA practices. The review has been a vehicle for environmental assessment and sector specialists to dialogue about SEA practice in the World Bank. Ultimately, the review is an attempt to launch a process of continuous learning in order to strengthen the World Bank SEA capacity in response to an increasing interest of client countries in upstream environmental and social analytical work. Thus this report is no more than a first step. Its findings and results cannot be treated as conclusive. Rather, they set a baseline upon which new and complementary learning activities can be undertaken over time.

728950ESW0whit0200ENV0SEA0pub0final.pdf (4 MB)

In the context of supporting biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and poverty reduction, this policy paper portrays the critical role that ecosystem management and ecosystem services can play in the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS). Ecosystem management is"an integrated process to conserve and improve ecosystem health that sustains ecosystem services for human well-being" (UNEP, 2009). The IUCN defines it as "a process that integrates ecological, socio-economic, and institutional factors into comprehensive analysis and action in order to sustain and enhance the quality of the ecosystems to meet current and future needs" (IUCN, 2011). Ecosystem management embraces an interdisciplinary approach that highlights connections between ecological, social-cultural, economic and institutional structures. Underlying the approach is the explicit goal to sustain ecosystem composition, structure, and function while providing for human needs (Grumbine, 1994, Layzer, 2008). Critical to this is ongoing research and monitoring of ecological interactions and processes, and a collaborative, adaptive approach.

PB12252.pdf (5 MB)