Blog Post

“Now is the time for action”: scientists identify pathways to meet global biodiversity targets

Eliot Gee, Alliance Bioversity International - CIAT • Mar 24, 2022

20 countries’ combined experiences have helped identify solutions to both conserve biodiversity and mitigate climate change, while meeting food security goals. A conversation with scientist Sarah Jones explores why it’s not too late to act.

Keywords: Biodiversity, Biodiversity Conservation, Food Systems, Climate Mitigation, Land Use

Takeaways:

  • Halting biodiversity loss requires immediate action, according to a brief by the FABLE scientific consortium and informed by country-specific data and projections.
  • Top actions (shifting diets, increasing crop and livestock productivity, constraining agricultural land expansion) can in many cases also address climate mitigation, without compromising food security.
  • The brief assesses the global impact of feasible country-level actions to conserve biodiversity, taking into account different risks and trade-offs.

Biodiversity loss: less noticeable, but just as urgent as climate change

Hi Sarah! This new FABLE brief addresses biodiversity loss – why now?

Sarah Jones: “With this brief, we wanted to convey the urgent need to conserve biodiversity. Climate change has rightly received a lot of attention over the last decade, partly because the effects are already being felt; whereas biodiversity loss is not so easily noticeable, and a lot of its impact will be gradual. Extinction of one species might not change much, but the cumulative effects will be disastrous. We can't bring species back once they’re gone.

We all depend on biodiversity for many things, particularly agriculture. A big reason for writing this brief was to highlight that the food production system, since it relies so much on biodiversity, should be taking an active interest in how to conserve it. We rely on ecosystem services like pollination, pest control, soil, nutrient cycling… farmers have been aware of these for a long time. And it’s not out of our control. We have the opportunity right now to try and reverse the situation.

The brief makes it clear that we can make progress towards meeting global targets on both climate mitigation and biodiversity conservation through certain actions that are able to create synergies between these two major challenges.”

By pooling our knowledge, we can inform better policy and practice

Let’s back up and discuss the process that went into this. Somebody reading might be wondering, ‘Here's another global brief talking about how important biodiversity loss is, we need to act now, it's already too late...’ What’s unique here?

“The brief is the product of FABLE - the Food, Agriculture, Biodiversity, Land Use and Energy Consortium (*details can be found at the bottom of the page). It's a collaborative initiative that includes policy and research institutes from 20 countries, along with international partners, working with local stakeholders to try and develop feasible pathways for food and land systems to achieve sustainability targets by 2050.

This is the largest network that I know of that's bringing together modeling initiatives across countries. I think it’s a big strength of the consortium and also a good approach for trying to solve these problems. It's very difficult to come up with good, integrative solutions, but pooling the ideas and expertise from many countries gives us a better chance.

"These results differentiate from any other modeling initiatives because we are not presenting pathways made by each country in isolation, rather pathways that are globally consistent. That is key, especially when it comes to assumptions on international trade to preserve biodiversity. The notion of the consortium is what allows this interconnection between the different country pathways.”

If you were in a room with a politician right now, what would you want them to know?

There are things we can do: diet shifts are definitely key for improving the situation. Otherwise, livestock and crop productivity in some places are very low; closing yield gaps and making sure that we are able to minimize land used for agriculture is definitely part of the solution.

But a caveat is that industrial methods for increasing productivity are bad news for biodiversity, and for pretty much everything else. Productivity increases need to be done thoughtfully, and we need more research, and farmers’ experiences to tell us, for example: What agroecological practices effectively close yield gaps in different places? Can we use locally-adapted species that are maybe not the most high-yielding but have stable yields over time and can be grown with fewer inputs? Can we try to increase the quality and density of crops and livestock in a certain area so you get more and better harvestable produce? I could go on, but in the end, it's about mimicking and working with nature in how we produce food including to increase productivity.

So for countries trying to meet global targets, what exactly does this translate into?

The same pattern of actions has been effective in many different places. For example, all the countries that increase their share of land where natural processes predominate, (land where biodiversity is able to thrive relatively undisturbed by humans), have assumed either a decrease or a smaller increase in per capita calorie intake. By putting constraints on new agricultural land development, increasing crop and livestock productivity, or checking population growth, countries contribute much more to meeting global biodiversity targets and there are often win-wins with food security and climate mitigation targets.

For example, in Mexico, we see a large (72%) increase by 2050 in land where natural processes predominate under one scenario tested, mainly through restoration of abandoned agricultural land to grassland, shrubland and wetlands. The agricultural land was freed up by reducing meat and other animal-sourced products in diets, increasing pasture productivity, plus increasing imports of livestock products. Mexico met their food production targets and was able to cut their greenhouse gas emissions by 28%, even though they lost 0.7 Mha forest cover.

One thing to note is that countries have had a first go here at coming up with ambitious sustainability scenarios, working with the local stakeholders to understand what's realistically possible. In many countries, results are now being discussed with national stakeholders and this is opening the door for new discussions about what’s possible, and whether more ambitious pledges and actions can be considered. A high level of ambition will be needed in all countries to achieve the full spectrum of targets that we're aiming for as a planet.”

From commitment to action: who has a role to play?

Over the last year, we witnessed a lot of international conferences like (UN Biodiversity) COP15 and (Climate) COP26. To what extent are these working, and what would you say to somebody who's questioning the progress that's being made?

“The recent IPCC Climate Report flagged our progress – it is too slow. We are already at the threshold for mitigating the worst damage.

But actions are happening, and that's really good. Governments even coming together to make these pledges last year for COP26, and COP15 for biodiversity, are very positive and they are ambitious, so that's promising.

I am hopeful 2022 will bring about real change. It's our last chance, really. We've been hearing that for a couple of years now, and I think it's really true, it's our last chance now to halt the negative impact that us humans are having on other species.

Political commitments need to follow through with strong ambitious actions that help shift food systems towards more sustainable outcomes. Politicians need to get behind that agenda, not just in words, but also in actions – with public investment to support farmers and consumers so they are able to afford, have the knowledge and skills, and are incentivized to make the shift towards, sustainable food systems. As consumers and producers, we need to be engaged and take an active part too.”

You mentioned the role of politicians, consumers, and producers. How about scientists?

“Outputs like this brief show that science has an important role to play in finding solutions. The brief is based on data and models; by working with national stakeholders in 20 countries and international teams to put together reasonable projections of which ambitious actions could be taken in different places, scientists were able to find an optimistic but feasible roadmap for achieving global biodiversity, climate mitigation and food production targets by 2050.

The actions being suggested in all these different places and their combined potential impact are showing us, ‘Okay, we can make real progress here in reversing the biodiversity crisis’. Scientific research and science-policy interactions are what makes it possible to develop methods, tools and collate data so we can model what might reasonably happen in the future.

At the same time, scientists and national institutes have a role to play in improving existing data on biodiversity; good projections rely on good data. For this brief we’ve used an indicator which identifies land areas around the world where nature is thriving – natural processes predominate - because the area falls into one of BirdLife International’s Key Biodiversity Areas , or the land is relatively undisturbed by humans. Further research is needed, for example, to identify where agricultural and other human-dominated landscapes provide important habitat for biodiversity and should be included in biodiversity conservation planning. The FABLE Consortium plans to continue working where this brief has left off and support countries in identifying integrated pathways to a more sustainable future.”

This interview has been edited for clarity and length.


👉Read the study here .

About Sarah Jones
Sarah is a researcher at the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, working on how to produce food in a sustainable way. She leads the biodiversity workstream in FABLE, collaborating with country teams to identify suitable data, indicators and methods for monitoring food and land-use system impacts on biodiversity and vice-versa.

About FABLE
The Food, Agriculture, Biodiversity, Land-Use, and Energy (FABLE) Consortium is a collaborative initiative to support the development of globally consistent mid-century national food and land-use pathways that could inform policies towards greater sustainability. FABLE is convened as part of the Food and Land Use Coalition (FOLU). The Consortium brings together teams of researchers from 20 countries and international partners from Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, and the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK). The authors would like to thank Norway’s International Climate and Forest Initiative (NICFI) as well as FABLE’s other supporters. Learn more here.

By SDSN 24 Apr, 2024
SDSN Portugal will gather high-level speakers from across the SDSN network to discuss and convene inputs for the upcoming UN Summit of the Future.
By Global Schools 16 Apr, 2024
The Global Schools Program (GSP) is thrilled to open applications for this year’s Global Schools Advocates Program cohort. This initiative drives transformative change in classrooms by fostering sustainable development through enhanced teacher training, aligning with SDG 4.7.
By Info 15 Apr, 2024
ABOUT SDSN The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) has been operating since 2012 under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General. SDSN mobilizes global scientific and technological expertise to promote practical solutions for sustainable development, including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement. We aim to accelerate joint learning and promote integrated approaches that address the interconnected economic, social, and environmental challenges confronting the world. SDSN works closely with United Nations agencies, multilateral financing institutions, the private sector, and civil society. It is directed by Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs and operates through offices in New York, Paris, and Kuala Lumpur. ABOUT THE SCIENCE PANEL FOR THE AMAZON The Science Panel for the Amazon, convened under the auspices of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) represents the world’s first high-level science initiative dedicated to the survival of the Amazon. The first report of the SPA, launched at the COP26 in Glasgow, is the most in-depth and holistic report of its kind on the Amazon. The state of urgency and the complexity and scope of the challenges the Amazon is facing calls for continued specialized research and scientific knowledge. It is thus paramount to ensure that the SPA remains active and operational in the long-term to develop much needed scientific assessments on the state of the Amazon and build and share knowledge to advance evidence-based sustainable development pathways for the Amazon. POSITION SUMMARY The consultant will work with the SPA team and several colleagues to develop an overall engagement strategy to work with the financial sector in the Amazon region and support conservation and a sustainable bioeconomy. The consultant may oversee several projects and initiatives. The consultant will analyze data on the supply chains for key commodities in the Amazon, highlighting key players involved as well as the risks and opportunities for more sustainable production systems in the Amazon. Based on the SPA Report’s assessment and recommendations on bioeconomy and restoration, the consultant will identify potential key partners to be engaged in the dialogue for sustainable solutions for the Amazon. Working with the SPA team, the consultant will support the development and implementation of an engagement strategy for dialogues with key development banks and financial institutions. The consultant will support the establishment of partnerships with key stakeholders such as the World Bank, InterAmerican Development Bank and with the GEF and GCF to engage in a series of dialogues on the main findings and proposals to advance sustainable development in the Amazon, and to stimulate financial institutions to adopt science-based social and environmental performance standards to contribute to the sustainable development of the Amazon region. The consultant will develop a strategy for SPA’s engagement with government finance policy makers and financial institutions at the Spring and Autumn meetings of Finance Ministers convened by the IMF and World Bank. The incumbent will prepare presentations for high-level meetings (e.g. with InterAmerican Development, CAF, FEBRABAN). The consultant will support the establishment of partnerships (e.g. with UNEP Financial Initiative) and engage in dialogues with financial institutions at high-level summits and events. PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES Work with SPA leadership to direct work on financing Conduct an analysis of supply chains for key commodities in the Amazon Map of key players in supply chains Build a compendium / database of key financial industry stakeholders in the region Develop an engagement strategy for the finance sector Implement the strategy, including key dialogues, meetings, and events QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE 7-10 years of experience working with or researching international finance institutions An advanced university degree (preferably a Ph.D) in biology, ecology, economics, conservation, sustainable development, or related field. Excellent organizational and project leadership skills. Demonstrated track record of effectively leading a performance-based and outcome-based program. Candidates must have developed and executed strategies that have taken an organization or program to the next stage of impact and growth. They must be skilled in developing strategy. Proven ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a matrixed team environment. Demonstrated experience managing a high-performance team with a deep commitment to diversity, inclusiveness, and empowerment. Ability to adapt technical knowledge and complex concepts to products aimed at policymakers. Strong analytical, quantitative, and empirical research skills; and the ability to link findings to public policy analysis and recommendations. Ability to operate with independence, under pressure, and to meet deadlines and commitments. Excellent interpersonal skills requiring knowing when to use courtesy, tact and/or diplomacy to effectively communicate with all constituents. Ability to effectively prioritize and produce high-quality work under time constraints. Ability to demonstrate integrity in deliverables, behavior, and demeanor. Must be fluent in English and either Portuguese or Spanish. IMPORTANT INFORMATION Location: Remote Travel: None. Contract Length: 6 months, with possibility to renew Benefits: SDSN team members are given the opportunity to follow some of the most thought-provoking discussions on sustainability. In their work, team members get the opportunity to meet and exchange with some of the world’s greatest leaders in sustainable development – professors, economists, bestselling authors, educators, and academics. In addition to this, SDSN team is composed of brilliant, dynamic, sustainable development professionals that come from different countries and backgrounds. With such unique exposure and environment, each member of SDSN can learn and grow while doing the work they love and contribute with a positive impact. Reports to: Emma Torres, Vice President of the Americas SDSN is an Equal Opportunity Employer SDSN provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to unlawful considerations of race, color, creed, religion, gender, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, genetic information, military or veteran status, age, and physical or mental disability, or any other classification protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws. APPLICATION PROCESS To apply, please submit a cover letter INCLUDING DAILY RATE OF PAY and a CV on HR Partner at the following link. https://sdsn.hrpartner.io/jobs/finance-consultant--science-panel-for-the-amazon-z2vy5
By Info 15 Apr, 2024
The SDSN has launched an 'Employee Spotlight Campaign' to showcase the passion and expertise of our staff.
By Info 05 Apr, 2024
Paris, Ile-de-France, France ABOUT SDSN The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) has been operating since 2012 under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General. SDSN mobilizes global scientific and technological expertise to promote practical solutions for sustainable development, including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement. We aim to accelerate joint learning and promote integrated approaches that address the interconnected economic, social, and environmental challenges confronting the world. SDSN works closely with United Nations agencies, multilateral financing institutions, the private sector, and civil society. It is directed by Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs and operates through offices in New York, Paris, and Kuala Lumpur. ABOUT THE DATA VISUALIZATION UNIT We are a small but growing unit at the UN SDSN, focused on building interactive web platforms and data tools for the organization’s flagship reports and products. For our data visualizations, we work primarily with React and Next.js to generate interactive, static websites hosted on Netlify. For our data work, we work primarily in Python and R. We like to innovate, prototype, and push the boundaries of what is possible. POSITION SUMMARY We are looking for a junior full-stack web developer to join our team to support the development of our interactive web platforms and data tools on the Sustainable Development Goals, including those featured in the SDG Transformation Center . Our platforms and tools help educate and empower policymakers, civil society organizations, and the general public to make data-driven decisions for greater impact. If you are seeking a web developer position within a mission-driven organization, SDSN is a place where you could grow and thrive. TASKS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Web Application Management: Maintain our current web application portfolio, including data visualizations and static websites. Feature and Web Application Development: Work closely with a product owner and GIS specialist to conceptualize and implement new features to our existing web application portfolio, as well as the creation of brand-new web applications. Your creativity and technical skills will help visualize complex data models to a wide variety of users. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Actively coordinate with cross-functional teams to define specifications and deliver tailored web applications that meet their needs. Data Workstreams Support: Engage with various data-centric activities at SDSN, such as data extractions and data analysis. Industry Awareness: Keep up to date with the latest industry trends and best practices in web development and data visualization. Apply this knowledge to continuously improve our technology stack and processes. Other: Perform other tasks as needed CORE QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Economics, or another quantitative field OR two to three years working experience. Strong knowledge of React and Node environments, JavaScript, HTML, and CSS. Knowledge of git version control and GitHub. Experience developing websites Fluency in English. Attention to detail. Self-driven, able to work independently as well as on cross-functional teams. Proactive and problem-solving attitude OPTIONAL QUALIFICATIONS UX/UI design skills Knowledge of data and statistics Experience building web applications with NextJS Knowledge with modern CSS frameworks such as Material UI or Tailwind. Familiarity with Python, R, or Stata Familiarity with interactive mapping tools (ArcGIS) Experience testing web applications using Jest and Cypress Familiarity with graphics design (e.g., Illustrator, Inkscape) IMPORTANT INFORMATION Location: Paris. Remotely 2 to 3 days / week. Contract length: CDD, 12 months, with possibility of renewal and conversion into an open-ended contract CDI. The selected candidate would start as soon as possible . Salary range: depending on experience. Benefits: SDSN offers generous leave allowances and flexible, hybrid work policy. SDSN team members are given the opportunity to follow some of the most thought-provoking discussions on sustainability. In their work, team members get the opportunity to meet and exchange with some of the world’s greatest leaders in sustainable development – professors, economists, bestselling authors, educators, and academics. In addition to this, SDSN team is composed of brilliant, dynamic, sustainable development professionals that come from different countries and backgrounds. With such unique exposure and environment, each member of SDSN can learn and grow while doing the work they love and contribute with a positive impact. Work authorization: You must have the right to work in France. The SDSN cannot sponsor a work visa for this position. SDSN IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER We are an equal opportunity employer and value inclusion and diversity at our organization. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability status. We welcome all applicants! APPLICATION PROCESS To apply, please submit a CV on HR Partner . Please include links to relevant projects and code samples that you have worked on. Deadline for applying: 26 April 2024 (Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A PROPOS DE SDSN UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (“SDSN”) opère depuis 2012 sous les auspices du Secrétaire général de l'ONU. SDSN mobilise l'expertise scientifique et technologique mondiale afin de promouvoir des solutions pratiques pour le développement durable, notamment la mise en œuvre des Objectifs de Développement Durable (ODD) et de l'Accord de Paris sur le climat. Nous visons à accélérer l'apprentissage commun et à promouvoir des méthodes intégrées qui répondent aux défis économiques, sociaux et environnementaux interconnectés auxquels le monde est confronté. SDSN travaille en étroite collaboration avec les agences des Nations Unies, les institutions financières multilatérales, le secteur privé et la société civile. Il est dirigé par le professeur Jeffrey D. Sachs et fonctionne par l'intermédiaire de bureaux à New York, Paris et Kuala Lumpur. À PROPOS DE L'UNITÉ DE VISUALISATION DES DONNÉES Nous sommes une petite unité en pleine croissance au sein du SDSN de l'ONU, qui se concentre sur la construction de plateformes web interactives et d'outils de données pour les rapports et produits phares de l'organisation. Pour nos visualisations de données, nous travaillons principalement avec React et Next.js pour générer des sites web interactifs et statiques hébergés sur Netlify. Pour nos travaux sur les données, nous travaillons principalement en Python et R. Nous aimons innover, prototyper et repousser les limites du possible. SYNTHESE DU POSTE A POURVOIR Nous recherchons un/e développeur/développeuse junior full stack pour rejoindre notre équipe afin de soutenir le développement de nos plateformes web interactives et de nos visualisations de données sur les objectifs de développement durable, y compris ceux présentés dans le SDG Transformation Center . Nos plateformes et outils aident à informer et à donner aux décideurs politiques, aux organisations de la société civile et au grand public les moyens de prendre des décisions fondées sur des données pour un plus grand impact. Si vous recherchez un poste de développeur/développeuse au sein d'une organisation axée sur une mission, SDSN est un endroit où vous pourriez grandir et prospérer. PRINCIPALES RESPONSABILITES Gestion des applications Web : maintenir notre portefeuille d'applications Web actuel, y compris les visualisations de données et les sites Web statiques. Développement de fonctionnalités et d'applications Web : travailler en étroite collaboration avec un ‘product owner’ et un spécialiste GIS pour conceptualiser et mettre en œuvre de nouvelles fonctionnalités dans notre portefeuille d'applications Web existant, ainsi que pour la création de toutes nouvelles applications Web. Votre créativité et vos compétences techniques aideront à visualiser des modèles de données complexes pour une grande variété d'utilisateurs. Collaboration interfonctionnelle : coordonner activement avec les équipes interfonctionnelles pour définir les spécifications et fournir des applications Web sur mesure qui répondent à leurs besoins. Prise en charge des flux de travail de données : participer à diverses activités centrées sur les données au SDSN, telles que les extractions et l'analyse de données. Mise à jour dans le domaine du web développement : rester informé des dernières tendances du secteur et des meilleures pratiques en matière de développement web et de visualisation de données. Appliquer ces connaissances pour améliorer continuellement nos processus. Autre : effectuer d'autres tâches selon les besoins QUALIFICATIONS, FORMATION ET EXPERIENCE Baccalauréat ou maîtrise en informatique, statistiques, économie ou dans un autre domaine quantitatif OU deux à trois ans d'expérience professionnelle COMPETENCES CONNEXES Requis: Solide connaissance des environnements React et Node, JavaScript, HTML et CSS Connaissance du contrôle de version git et de GitHub Expérience en développement de sites Web Maîtrise de l'anglais Souci du détail Autonome, capable de travailler de manière indépendante ainsi qu'avec différentes équipes Attitude proactive et axée sur la résolution de problèmes Facultatif: Compétences en conception UX/UI Connaissance des données et des statistiques Expérience dans la création d'applications Web avec NextJS Connaissance des frameworks CSS modernes tels que Material UI ou Tailwind Familiarité avec Python, R ou Stata Familiarité avec les outils de cartographie interactive (ArcGIS) Expérience de test d'applications Web à l'aide de Jest et Cypress Familiarité avec la conception graphique (par exemple, Illustrator, Inkscape) INFORMATION IMPORTANTE Lieu de travail: Paris, régime de travail hybride (2 ou 3 jours par semaine de télétravail) Durée du contrat: CDD pour 12 mois, avec possibilité de renouvellement et de transformation en CDI à durée indéterminée. Le poste est à pourvoir dès que possible. Salaire: En fonction de l’expérience. Avantages: SDSN offre des congés généreux et une politique de travail flexible et hybride. Les membres de l'équipe de SDSN ont la possibilité de suivre certaines discussions très stimulantes sur le développement durable. Dans le cadre de leur travail, les membres de l'équipe ont l'occasion de rencontrer et d'échanger avec certains des plus grands leaders mondiaux en matière de développement durable - professeurs, économistes, auteurs de best-sellers, éducateurs et universitaires. En outre, l'équipe du SDSN est composée de professionnels du développement durable brillants et dynamiques, issus de pays et d'horizons différents. Grâce à cette exposition et à cet environnement uniques, chaque membre de SDSN peut apprendre et se développer tout en faisant le travail qu'il aime et en contribuant à un impact positif. Permis de travail: SDSN ne sponsorise pas les visas, et par conséquent, les candidats doivent avoir un permis pour travailler en France. EGALITE DES CHANCES A L’EMPLOI SDSN est un employeur offrant l'égalité des chances et tous les candidats qualifiés seront considérés de la même manière. PROCESSUS DE CANDIDATURE Pour postuler, veuillez soumettre un CV sur HR PARTNER jusqu’au 26 avril 2024 . Veuillez inclure des liens vers des projets pertinents et des échantillons de code sur lesquels vous avez travaillé. Veuillez noter qu'en raison du volume important de candidatures reçues, seuls les candidat(es) présélectionné(es) seront contacté(es).
By Info 05 Apr, 2024
Paris, Ile-de-France, France ABOUT SDSN The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) has been operating since 2012 under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General. SDSN mobilizes global scientific and technological expertise to promote practical solutions for sustainable development, including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement. We aim to accelerate joint learning and promote integrated approaches that address the interconnected economic, social, and environmental challenges confronting the world. SDSN works closely with United Nations agencies, multilateral financing institutions, the private sector, and civil society. It is directed by Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs and operates through offices in New York, Paris, and Kuala Lumpur. POSITION SUMMARY The SDSN Paris Office is looking for an experienced Strategic Advisor to support partnership development and fundraising efforts. Working closely with the Vice President and Head of Paris Office the Strategic Advisor will be in charge of engaging with existing and potential global partners to advance the implementation of the SDGs. The Strategic Advisor will work closely with SDSN’s global network of Universities and Research Institutions as well as other partners. The Strategic Advisor will also contribute to supporting the efforts of the SDSN, in particular of the SDG Transformation Center , in tracking SDG policies at the country-level. The Strategic Advisor will report directly to the Vice President and Head of Paris Office and will work closely with the Director for Operations and Grant Management. PRINCIPAL RESPONSIBILITIES Partnerships, fundraising & reporting (50%): Lead and coordinate the fundraising strategy of the SDSN Paris, in collaboration with the VP and Head of Paris Office and senior managers. Prepare project proposals and approach potential partners including governments, philanthropists and foundations. Represent the SDSN Paris in high-level meetings. Liaise with senior managers in Paris to understand needs and strategic priorities. Gain transversal knowledge across projects of timelines, reporting mechanisms. Help increase the outreach and visibility of SDSN’s work and in particular the work of the SDG Transformation Center internationally. Contribute to donor compliance, audit processes and grant management. Communications & outreach (30%): Present the work of the SDSN in seminars, workshops and roundtables. Working closely with the SDSN Head of Communications, lead communications efforts for the SDSN Paris Office in particular the social media and website of the SDG Transformation Center and FABLE teams Help prepare press releases and liaise with reporters. Organize the logistics and send out invitations for high-level launch events. Analytical work on SDG policy & data (20%): In collaboration with the SDSN Networks’ team, prepare the annual survey and collect data on Government Efforts and Commitment for the SDGs Expand SDSN’s work on Policy Trackers for key SDG Transformations, in particular on SDG localization. Working closely with the SDG Index team, explore innovative ways to leverage geospatial (GIS) technologies to track SDG progress Provide inputs when needed to SDSN’s flagship reports and working papers, including the Sustainable Development Report & Global Commons Stewardship Index. Perform any other tasks as needed. QUALIFICATIONS, EDUCATION, AND EXPERIENCE An advanced University degree (Master’s or Ph.D) in economics, international studies, political science, business administration, industrial ecology, environmental science, or other relevant topic Experience working on sustainable development issues, preferably acquired in an international context Strong background in partnership development at the international level Experience in fundraising, managing donor relationships and preparing audit reports RELATED SKILLS Strong analytical, quantitative, and empirical research skills; and proven ability to link findings to public policy analysis and recommendations Proven ability to develop constructive relationships with key actors and networks in the area of environmental sustainability Diplomatic skills and ability to work in a team environment Knowledge of one statistical package, preferably STATA and/or R, would be a plus Fluency in English (both written and spoken) is required Professional capacity in French and other languages would be a plus IMPORTANT INFORMATION Location: Paris. The office has a hybrid model of work with 2-3 days at the office. Contract Length: CDD, 18 months (with possibility of conversion to a CDI). The selected candidate would start ideally by June 2024 or in September 2024. Salary Range: depending on experience. Benefits: SDSN offers generous leave allowances and flexible, hybrid work policy. SDSN team members are given the opportunity to follow some of the most thought-provoking discussions on sustainability. In their work, team members get the opportunity to meet and exchange with some of the world’s greatest leaders in sustainable development – professors, economists, bestselling authors, educators, and academics. With such unique exposure and environment, each member of SDSN can learn and grow while doing the work they love and contribute with a positive impact. Reports to: VP and Head of the Paris Office Work authorization: SDSN does not sponsor visas, and therefore applicants must have the right to work in France. SDSN IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER SDSN provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to unlawful considerations of race, color, creed, religion, gender, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, genetic information, military or veteran status, age, and physical or mental disability, or any other classification protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws. APPLICATION PROCESS To apply, please submit a cover letter , your CV and references on HR Partner . Application materials should be submitted in English preferably (but possible also to submit them in French). Deadline for applying: May 1st (Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis) ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONSEILLER/E STRATEGIQUE A PROPOS DE SDSN UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (“SDSN”) opère depuis 2012 sous les auspices du Secrétaire Général de l'ONU. SDSN mobilise l'expertise scientifique et technologique mondiale afin de promouvoir des solutions pratiques pour le développement durable, notamment la mise en œuvre des Objectifs de Développement Durable (ODD) et de l'Accord de Paris sur le climat. Nous visons à accélérer l'apprentissage commun et à promouvoir des méthodes intégrées qui répondent aux défis économiques, sociaux et environnementaux interconnectés auxquels le monde est confronté. SDSN travaille en étroite collaboration avec les agences des Nations Unies, les institutions financières multilatérales, le secteur privé et la société civile. Il est dirigé par le professeur Jeffrey D. Sachs et fonctionne par l'intermédiaire de bureaux à New York, Paris et Kuala Lumpur. A PROPOS DU POSTE A POURVOIR Le bureau parisien du SDSN recherche un/e conseiller/conseillère stratégique expérimenté/e pour soutenir le développement de partenariats et les efforts de collecte de fonds. En étroite collaboration avec le Vice-Président - Chef du bureau de Paris, le/la conseiller/conseillère stratégique sera chargé/e de nouer des relations avec des partenaires au niveau mondial afin de faire progresser la mise en œuvre des ODD. Le/la conseiller/conseillère stratégique travaillera en étroite collaboration avec le réseau mondial d'institutions internationales, nationales et d'universités et centres de recherche de SDSN ainsi qu'avec d'autres partenaires. Le/la conseiller/conseillère stratégique contribuera également à soutenir les efforts du SDSN, en particulier ceux du Centre de transformation des ODD , dans le suivi des politiques relatives aux ODD au niveau national. Il/elle rendra compte directement au Vice-Président - Chef du bureau de Paris et travaillera en étroite collaboration avec la Directrice des Opérations & de la Gestion des Subventions. PRINCIPALES RESPONSABILITES Partenariats, collecte de fonds et suivi (50%) : Diriger et coordonner la stratégie de collecte de fonds du SDSN Paris, en collaboration avec le Vice-Président - Chef du bureau de Paris et les managers. Préparer des propositions de projets et approcher des partenaires potentiels, y compris des gouvernements, des philanthropes et des fondations. Représenter le SDSN Paris dans des réunions de haut niveau. Assurer la liaison avec les managers à Paris pour comprendre les besoins et les priorités stratégiques. Acquérir une connaissance transversale des échéances et des mécanismes d'établissement de rapports pour l'ensemble des projets. Contribuer à accroître la portée et la visibilité du travail du SDSN et en particulier du travail du SDG Transformation Center à l'échelle internationale. Contribuer au respect des exigences des donateurs, aux processus d'audit et à la gestion des subventions. Communication et sensibilisation (30 %) : Présenter le travail du SDSN lors de séminaires, d'ateliers et de tables rondes. En étroite collaboration avec la responsable de la communication du SDSN, diriger les efforts de communication pour le bureau de Paris du SDSN, en particulier les médias sociaux et le site web du SDG Transformation Center et de l’équipe FABLE. Aider à préparer les communiqués de presse et assurer la liaison avec les journalistes. Organiser la logistique et envoyer les invitations pour les événements de lancement de haut niveau. Travail analytique sur la politique et les données relatives aux ODD (20 %) : En collaboration avec l'équipe du réseau SDSN, préparer l'enquête annuelle et collecter des données sur les efforts et l'engagement des gouvernements en faveur des ODD. Développer le travail du SDSN sur les indicateurs de suivi des politiques pour les transformations clés des ODD, en particulier sur la localisation des ODD. En étroite collaboration avec l'équipe de l'indice SDG, explorer des moyens innovants d'exploiter les technologies géospatiales (GIS) pour suivre les progrès des SDG. Contribuer, le cas échéant, aux rapports et documents de travail phares du SDSN, notamment le rapport sur le développement durable et le Global Commons Stewardship Index (indice mondial de gestion des ressources communes). Effectuer toute autre tâche nécessaire. QUALIFICATIONS, FORMATION ET EXPERIENCE Diplôme universitaire supérieur (Master ou doctorat) en économie, études internationales, sciences politiques, administration des affaires, écologie industrielle, sciences de l'environnement ou autre sujet pertinent. Expérience de travail sur les questions de développement durable, acquise de préférence dans un contexte international. Solide expérience en matière de développement de partenariats au niveau international. Expérience de la collecte de fonds, de la gestion des relations avec les donateurs et de la préparation de rapports d'audit. COMPETENCES CONNEXES Solides compétences en matière d'analyse, de recherche quantitative et empirique ; et capacité avérée à relier les résultats à l'analyse et aux recommandations en matière de politique publique. Capacité avérée à développer des relations constructives avec des acteurs et des réseaux clés dans le domaine de la durabilité environnementale. Compétences diplomatiques et capacité à travailler en équipe. La connaissance d'un progiciel statistique, de préférence STATA et/ou R, serait un plus. La maîtrise de l'anglais (à l'écrit et à l'oral) est requise. Une capacité professionnelle en français et dans d'autres langues serait un plus. INFORMATION IMPORTANTE Lieu de travail: Paris. Le bureau suit un mode de travail hybride, avec une présence au bureau à raison de 2-3 jours par semaine. Durée du contrat: CDD, 18 mois (avec la possibilité d’une extension en CDI). Le/la candidat/e sélectionné/e commencera idéalement en juin 2024 ou en Septembre 2024. Avantages: SDSN offre des congés généreux et une politique de travail flexible et hybride. Les membres de l'équipe de SDSN ont la possibilité de suivre certaines discussions très recherchées sur le développement durable. Dans le cadre de leur travail, les membres de l'équipe ont l'occasion de rencontrer et d'échanger avec certains des plus grands leaders mondiaux en matière de développement durable - professeurs, économistes, auteurs de best-sellers et universitaires. En outre, l'équipe du SDSN est composée de professionnels du développement durable brillants et dynamiques, issus de pays et d'horizons différents. Grâce à cette exposition et à cet environnement uniques, chaque membre de SDSN peut apprendre et se développer tout en faisant le travail qu'il aime et en contribuant à un impact positif. Superviseur: Vice-Président et chef du bureau de Paris Permis de travail: SDSN ne sponsorise pas les visas, et par conséquent, les candidats doivent avoir un permis pour travailler en France. EGALITE DES CHANCES A L’EMPLOI SDSN est un employeur offrant l'égalité des chances et tous les candidats qualifiés seront considérés de la même manière. PROCESSUS DE CANDIDATURE Pour postuler, veuillez soumettre un CV , une lettre de motivation et les coordonnées de référence à HR PARTNER jusqu’au 1 May 2024 . (Les candidatures seront examinées au fur et à mesure.) Les dossiers de candidature doivent être soumis en anglais de préférence (mais il est également possible de les soumettre en français)
By SDSN Secretariat 01 Apr, 2024
Welcome to SDSN's Month Year Newsletter!
By Info 01 Apr, 2024
The SDSN has launched an 'Employee Spotlight Campaign' to showcase the passion and expertise of our staff.
By SDSN Kenya 28 Mar, 2024
On 25 March 2024, SDSN Kenya joined WRI Africa and other Kenyan partner organizations in co-hosting an interactive workshop and debate format entitled: ‘Carbon Markets: Which Way for Kenya? A Carbon Markets Clinic and Debate’. The full-day event was hosted at Strathmore University in Nairobi, a local SDSN network member institution, ahead of an official Carbon Markets Conference organized by the Kenyan government on 26-27 March. Close to 200 participants were in attendance with leading experts and practitioners from the Nairobi Climate Network, Aspen Initiative, Green Belt Movement, Climate Action Platform-Africa (CAP-A), as well as community and civil society leaders throughout Kenya. In addition to bringing in Kenyan climate and development researchers from the SDSN Kenya network , we were able to facilitate the active involvement of Kenyan ‘carbon’ farmers through contacts of the SDSN FELD (Food, Environment, Land and Development) Programme. These farmers are members of the vast TIST network that links more than 100,000 Kenyan farmers across 5,000 villages with regular payments from global carbon markets for more than a decade. A representative of TIST actively joined the discussion panel to present on the everyday experience of her fellow farmers with already existing carbon market mechanisms – an important practical contribution on what unfortunately is often a controversial, polarized, and abstract issue in Kenyan development discussions. To stimulate vivid debate, expert-led clinic sessions that explained key issues in carbon markets were followed by an Oxford-style debate in the late afternoon. Key issues raised during the event include: Carbon credits and their role in the pursuit of climate commitments under the Paris Agreement to reach “Net Zero”; Carbon pricing mechanisms and controversies around them; Carbon trading transaction costs and project finance; Land ownership and its implications for carbon markets; Inclusivity, benefits sharing, and community safeguarding; Current concerns around integrity, transparency, and the pervasiveness of corporate greenwashing; and Kenya’s legal and policy provisions regulating carbon trading, and their effectiveness. Carbon markets continue to garner significant interest in Kenya, where the government is currently developing a ‘Carbon Credit Trading and Benefit Sharing Bill’. This full day of civil society and expert-led discussions with stakeholders from across the spectrum in Kenya demonstrated both the demand and the importance of bringing complex development and financing issues to a broader audience, alongside government meetings. SDSN is grateful to its partners in Kenya, especially WRI Africa and the FOLU Coalition Kenya Platform, and its funders at the Robert Bosch Stiftung for their support and partnership.
By Science Panel for the Amazon 27 Mar, 2024
The Amazon, the world's largest rainforest and river basin, faces urgent environmental challenges such as deforestation, degradation, and criminality. In response, the Science Panel for the Amazon (SPA) is taking an important step to foster a better understanding of these threats and their impacts to promote participation in developing solutions. In collaboration with the SDG Academy, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), and the World Bank (WB), and with financial support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), today, the SPA launched its groundbreaking massive open online course (MOOC), "The Living Amazon: Science, Cultures, and Sustainability in Practice."
Show More
Share by: