Download GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT FACILITY

United Nations Development Programme
Country: Belarus
Project Document
Project title
Management of the Niemen River basin with account of adaptation to
climate change
UNDAF Outcomes:
Outcome 3.1. National capacity to mitigate and adapt to climate change
enhanced
Expected CP Outcome(s)::
3.1: Country’s capacity to mitigate and adapt to the climate change
strengthened; and
3.2: Sustainable use of the country’s natural resources promoted.
Expected Output(s):
Assessment and forecast of water resources formation with account of
different climate change scenarios and economic development tendencies with
regard to the use of water resources and industrial capacity for the Niemen
River basin.
Proposals regarding the agreed indicators of water bodies status (ecological
and chemical), along with respective criteria (values), and systems for
classification of water bodies’ state and parameters.
Enhanced transboundary cooperation including improved of information
exchange on water resources use between Belarus, Lithuania and Russia.
Executing Entity:
Implementing Agencies:
UNDP
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of Belarus
Brief summary
The project is aimed at assisting Belarus in implementation of the United Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change (FCCC) by means of building national capacity for sustainable management of the country’s water
resources in the context of climate change by the example of the Niemen River basin
UNDP Country Programme period: 2011-2015
UNDP focal area: Environmental protection and
energy; supporting climate change adaptation
Atlas Award ID: 00061928
Altas Project ID: 00079039
Implementation period: 18 months (starting from
the date of project official registration)
PAC Meeting Date: 26 April 2011
Management Arrangements: NEX
Approved
Name
Ministry of Natural
Vladimir G. Tsalko
Resources and
Environmental Protection
of Belarus:
UNDP:
Antonius Broek
Total project budget:
USD 170 000
including:
- funding by the UNECE Water
Convention and Environment and
Security Initiative (ENVSEC),
USD 170 000
Position
Minister
UNDP Resident
Representative in
Belarus
Signature
Date
PART I.
SITUATION ANALYSIS ................................................................................................................... 4
INTERNATIONAL FRAMEWORK ........................................................................................................................................ 4
NATIONAL CONTEXT ....................................................................................................................................................... 4
ISSUE DESCRIPTION ......................................................................................................................................................... 5
MAIN STAKEHOLDERS AND BENEFICIARIES OF THE PROJECT .......................................................................................... 5
LINK TO UNDP PRIORITIES ............................................................................................................................................. 5
PART II.
PROJECT STRATEGY ..................................................................................................................... 6
PROJECT JUSTIFICATION.................................................................................................................................................. 6
GOALS, OBJECTIVES, OUTCOMES AND ACTIVITIES OF THE PROJECT ................................................................................ 6
LINK TO NATIONAL PRIORITIES AND OTHER INITIATIVES, PROGRAMMES AND PROJECTS ................................................. 8
PART III.
RESULTS AND RESOURCES FRAMEWORK ............................................................................. 9
PART IV.
PROJECT WORK PLAN ................................................................................................................ 12
PROJECT WORK PLAN .................................................................................................................................................... 12
PART V.
MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS ........................................................................................... 15
PART VI.
MONITORING AND EVALUATION ............................................................................................ 16
PART VII.
LEGAL FRAMEWORK .................................................................................................................. 18
PART VIII.
APPENDICES ................................................................................................................................... 19
APPENDIX 1: UNDP SERVICES AIMED AT PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION ................................................ 19
APPENDIX 2. TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE PROJECT MANAGER ..................................................... 21
APPENDIX 3: RISK ANALYSIS................................................................................................................................. 23
APPENDIX 4: MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT PLAN ................................................................................... 24
2
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
ENVSEC
Environment and Security International Initiative (member organizations:
UNEP, UNDP, UNECE, UN, OSCE, REC; associated member: NATO
via Science for Peace and Security Programme)
GRID-Arendal
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) information center,
Arendal, Norway.
IWAC
International Water Assessment Centre, Bratislava
NPC
National Project Coordinator
NSDS-2020
National Strategy of Sustainable Socio-economic Development until 2020
Ministry of Environment
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of the
Republic of Belarus
PCC
Project Coordination Council
PMT
Project Management Team
RUE ‘CRDIIUWR’
Republican Unitary Enterprise ‘Central Research and Development
Institute for Integrated Utilization of Water Resources’
UNDP Regional Center
UNDP Regional Center for Europe and CIS (based in Bratislava)
UNECE
United Nations European Commission for Europe
UNFCCC
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
WMO
World Metrological Organization
Zoï Environment Network
International non-commercial environmental organization, Geneva,
Switzerland.
3
PART I.
SITUATION ANALYSIS
INTERNATIONAL FRAMEWORK
Management of transboundary water resources is one of the most important issues. The 1992
UNECE Convention on the Protection and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes
provides a firm basis for transboundary cooperation, including climate change adaptation context. According
to the Guidance on Water and Adaptation to Climate Change, the water resources management issue is
attributed to the fact that on almost half of the Earth surface area water runoff takes place via international
river basins. Transboundary waters create hydrological, social and economic interdependence between the
countries. Water resources and climate change go beyond state boundaries and this makes climate change
adaptation an international issue. The territory of the Republic of Belarus is a watershed between the basins
of the Baltic and the Black seas. About 45% of the rivers flow to the Baltic Sea and 55 % – to the Black Sea.
There are 7 big rivers (more than 500 kilometers long) in Belarus and all of them, except the Berezina river,
are transboundary ones. In the context of climate change adaptation it is important to improve the integrated
management of the water resources of the transboundary basin of the Niemen River, which flows through the
territory of Belarus, Lithuania and the Russian Federation and falls into the Baltic Sea. It will facilitate
international cooperation at all stages of elaboration of the climate change adaptation strategy for the Niemen
River basin in transboundary context.
The main international regulatory documents governing the development of international cooperation
in the Niemen River basin include:
 Agreement between the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of the
Republic of Belarus and the Ministry of Environmental Protection of the Republic of Lithuania on
cooperation in the sphere of environmental protection (April 14, 1995);
 Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Belarus and the Government of the Russian
Federation on cooperation in the sphere of nature conservation (July 5, 1994).
NATIONAL CONTEXT
On August 27, 2003 the Republic of Belarus committed to fulfill the Convention on the Protection
and Use of Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes (Helsinki Convention). The principals of
the Helsinki Convention as well as the principals of the subsequent international documents (serving as
addenda to the mentioned Convention), including United Nations Convention on Climate Change, stipulate
the necessity of expanding international cooperation in the sphere of integrated management of the
transboundary river basins’ water resources. The Republic of Belarus has the necessary legislative,
regulatory and institutional framework for implementation of such international projects. The Ministry of
Natural Resources and Environmental Protection is responsible for water resources management in the
country. The Republican Unitary Enterprise ‘Central Research and Development Institute for Integrated
Utilization of Water Resources’, reporting to the Ministry of Nature, is the main water resources research
institution in the country. RUE ‘CRDIIUWR’ has all the necessary scientific capacity, staff and working
experience in the sphere of hydrological, hydraulic and water balance computations, elaboration of integrated
water resources utilization schemes, allowing it to successfully implement the proposed project.
National legal acts stipulate an integrated approach to utilization and protection of the Belarusian
waters and are aimed at fulfillment of the provisions of the UNECE Convention on the Protection and Use of
Transboundary Watercourses and International Lakes.
4
ISSUE DESCRIPTION
The European Union Water Framework Directive recommends using the basin principle when
managing water resources. There is an active water use in the Niemen River basin due to great number of
industrial and agricultural enterprises as well as oil and product pipelines. The quality of the Niemen River
water resources as well as the river’s regime (including regime which depends on the efficiency of water
resources management), determine the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the river basin’s water
resources on the territory of Lithuania as well as ecological state of the Baltic Sea to a large extent. The
issues of estimation and forecasting of water resources formation in the transboundary basin of the Niemen
River as well as the quality of such water resources have become especially important over the recent
decades due to climate change.
No estimation and forecasting of water resources formation in the transboundary river basins in the
context of climate change adaptation was done in the Republic of Belarus, no assessment methodologies
were elaborated and no joint international projects were implemented. According to the Water Strategy of
the Republic of Belarus until 2020 “… the issues of estimation and use of transboundary watercourses in the
river basins with account of European approaches and in climate change adaptation context have not been
adequately addressed”. That is why according to the Water Strategy of the Republic of Belarus until 2020
this issue is a strategic one for the country.
MAIN STAKEHOLDERS AND BENEFICIARIES OF THE PROJECT
In the context of this Project Document, under the term “beneficiaries” we mean society groups that
will benefit from the project, including obtaining knowledge and skills, equipment, benefiting from
enhanced legal and institutional framework, improved expert capacity etc. .
Considering the above, the project beneficiaries include Ministry of Environment, the RUE
‘CRDIIUWR’, decision makers at national, regional and local levels involved in decision-making
process with respect to water resources use, scientists dealing with water and climate change issues,
and ultimately, the population of Belarus who will benefit from the improved environment.
Among the stakeholders we should also name neighboring Lithuania and Russia (Kaliningrad
oblast), sharing the Niemen River with Belarus.
LINK TO UNDP PRIORITIES
The project is in full compliance with the UNDP Country Programme for Belarus and contributes to
the achievement of the programme outcomes 3.1 “Country’s capacity to mitigate and adapt to the climate
change strengthened”; and 3.2: “Sustainable use of the country’s natural resources promoted.”
The
project also complies with the 2008-2011 UNDP Corporate Programme with regard to Environment and
Sustainable Development section of the Programme.
The project facilitates the improvement of decision-making process and contributes to the
enhancement of ecological sustainability in the Republic of Belarus via capacity building for the
development of international cooperation in the sphere of protection and use of water resources of
transboundary river basins with account of adaptation to the climate change. The proposed activities are
supplementary to the current UNDP and Belarusian Government’s efforts in the sphere of environmental
protection. The project will open new possibilities for cooperation.
The project corresponds to the goal and objectives of the “Environment and Security” initiatives,
which is joint initiative of UNDP, ENECE, UNEP, OSCE, NATO and the Regional Environmental Centre
(REC Budapest). Besides, project activities are aimed at better taking the environmental protection aspect
into account during the process of planning and decision-making. The project fully complies with the UNDP
activities to achieve Millennium Development Goals.
5
The project corresponds to the UNDP Gender Equality Strategy 2011-2013, which, as well, envisages
full participation of women in preparation and implementation of strategic documents on environment,
energy efficiency, adaptation to climate change as well enhancing women capacities in environmental
decision-making. Those documents shall be developed with due respect to women’s concerns and interests.
PART II.
PROJECT STRATEGY
PROJECT JUSTIFICATION
The project is focused on management of the Niemen River basin with account of climate change. It is
part of the UNECE Programme of pilot projects and thus it can use the platform for exchange of practices
and experience between the projects and other similar initiatives aimed at development of cooperation for
adaptation to the climate change in transboundary basins. Furthermore, the project on the Niemen River will
be implemented within the framework of Environment and Security Initiative (ENVSEC).
Programme of pilot projects ‘on development of cooperation for adaptation to the climate change in
transboundary basins’ implemented within the framework of UNECE Water Convention is aimed at assisting
UN member states in implementation of the Water Convention and the EU Water Framework Directive in
the context of climate change, as well as it is aimed at supporting the UNECE member states to develop
adaptation strategies and cooperation development measures in order to adapt to climate change in
transboundary basins.
The Niemen River project for the Republic of Belarus will be implemented with financial support of
Finland via UNECE Water Convention. It is expected that additional funding for 2011-2012 can be raised
within the framework of ENVSEC. Such additional funding will be allocated for implementation of activities
aimed at meeting the project outcomes and objectives specified below.
The Government of the Republic of Belarus emphasizes the importance of improving the mechanism
of taking environment protection aspects into account during the decision-making process. Adaptation of
methods used to estimate and forecast formation and use of transboundary river basins’ water resources to
climate change will lead to the increase in the efficiency of managerial decisions in the sphere of water use.
The project will provide the necessary support to the Ministry of Environment to develop capacity in the
sphere of sustainable management of water resources and international cooperation in the protection and use
of water resources applying the basin approach with account of climate change. The project will facilitate
cooperation between the Republic of Belarus and the European countries in the sphere of environment
protection.
GOALS, OBJECTIVES, OUTCOMES AND ACTIVITIES OF THE PROJECT
The main goal of the project is improvement of the integrated water resources management using
the basin approach in the climate change context by the example of the Niemen River. The project will also
facilitate the development of transboundary cooperation between the countries located in the Niemen River
basin, and will facilitate achievement of mutual understanding regarding forecasted water resources reserves
and water use, taking into account possible climate change impacts.
The following objectives are planned to be met in the course of project implementation:
- Assessment of water use characteristics in the Niemen River basin and its impact on the qualitative
and quantitative characteristics of water resources;
- Estimation and forecast of formation and use of water resources of the transboundary Niemen River
basin with account of different climate change scenarios, economic development trends with respect
to the use of water resources and to industrial development.
The project will also result in enhancement of transboundary cooperation, including improvement of
exchange of information about water resources use between Belarus, Lithuania and Russia, as well as in
6
proposals regarding the activities to adapt to climate change in the Niemen River basin.
The abovementioned objectives will be met by implementation of the corresponding activities with
more detailed results, specified below.
Activity 1 Assessment of the current state of the water resources of the Niemen River basin
(quantitative aspects) and assessment of economic activities impact on these resources
1.1) Analysis of the available hydrological data and assessment of the Niemen River’s hydrological regime
change trends.
1.2) Elaboration of the proposals for (i) indicators (ecological and chemical) to evaluate the state of water
bodies common for the whole Niemen River basin, (ii) classification system and criteria for assessment
of ecological status based on the selected indicators.
1.3) Analysis of water use characteristics and overall assessment of its impact by means of computation of
water balances under current conditions.
1.4) Determination of priority with respect to protection and use of the Niemen River basin’s water
resources.
As a result of this activity a report on the analysis of the current state of water resources and impact
of economic activities on the water environment of the Niemen River basin will be prepared. The proposals
on a set of indicators to be used to assess the current state of water bodies (ecological and chemical), along
with a water bodies classification system and criteria for assessment of water bodies ecological status based
on the selected indicators.
Activity 2. Study of the change of the climatic characteristics for the Niemen River basin and
elaboration of the climate change scenarios
2.1) Analysis of the international experience related to the possible climate change scenarios and models
considering a possibility of their adaptation for the Niemen River basin.
2.2) Processing and statistical analysis of the benchmark climatic data obtained from the meteorological
stations located in the Niemen River basin.
2.3) Assessment of the climate change tendencies based on the results of the benchmark meteorological data
applying the ‘world’ models taking into account the experience of their application in Lithuania.
Elaboration of the climate change scenarios.
2.4) Workshop to discuss preliminary research results.
2.5) Meeting of the Working Group / workshop-seminar.
This activity will result in (i) a report containing results of the climatic data analysis; (ii) climate
change scenarios will be elaborated; (iii) Internet-based information platform containing data on water
resources management and climate change adaptation with regard to Belarus, Lithuania and Russia.
Activity 3. Forecasting the runoff of the Niemen River basin in the context of climate change
and with account of different scenarios for water use and socio-economic development
3.1) Selection of the common methodology to assess the climate change impact on the hydrological and
hydrogeological regime of the Niemen River basin (taking into account international experience).
3.2) Building future water use scenarios.
3.3) Computation of the estimated future water balances and runoff changes.
3.4) Stakeholder meeting.
In the course of this activity, the scenarios for future water use will be elaborated, along with agreed
estimations of the climate change impact on the runoff based on the water balance calculations made on the
basis of climate change scenarios.
Activity 4. Analysis of the hydrometeorological, hydrochemical and hydrobiological
monitoring systems in the Niemen River transboundary basin and assessment of the needs for these
systems optimization for climate change monitoring (including emergency cases)
4.1) Analysis of the meteorological and hydrological monitoring systems and elaboration of proposals to
optimize the systems to conduct climate change monitoring (including emergency cases).
4.2) Analysis of the hydrochemical and hydrobiological monitoring systems in the Niemen River
transboundary basin and assessment of the possibility for optimization of such systems to conduct
climate change monitoring (including emergency cases).
7
This activity will result in the proposals for optimization of the monitoring system for the Niemen
River basin with account of climate change.
Activity 5. Estimation and forecast of the future climate change impact on the water quality at
the highest generalization level
5.1) Assessment of the current water quality in the Niemen River based on hydrochemical and
hydrobiological indicators.
5.2) Analysis of the world practice with respect to the application of models for assessment of climate
change impact on the quality of water resources.
5.3) Assessment of the climate change possible impact on the quality of water in the Niemen River for the
selected climate change scenarios.
5.4) Meeting of the Working Group / workshop.
5.5) Stakeholder meeting.
5.6) Discussion of the climate change adaptation measures and a Niemen River basin water resources
management plans.
5.7) Final seminar.
Assessment of the climate change possible impact on the quality of water in the Niemen River will
be the result of this activity.
Activity 6. Elaboration of the common information platform (Internet database), containing
data on water resources management and adaptation to climate change for the Niemen River basin
countries.
6.1) Development of the database concept and structure.
6.2) Preparation of the initial data and filling out the database, development of the database pilot version.
6.3) Database trial operation and upgrade based on the project results and comments of the stakeholders.
Final database integration into the RUE ‘CRDIIUWR’ website.
This activity will result a common information platform (Internet database), containing data on water
resources management and climate change adaptation for Belarus, Lithuania and Russia.
LINK TO NATIONAL PRIORITIES AND OTHER INITIATIVES, PROGRAMMES AND PROJECTS
The goals of this project are consistent with the main provisions of the Water Strategy of the
Republic of Belarus until 2020, according to which assessment and use of transboundary watercourses with
account of European approaches and in the context climate change adaptation is a strategic issue.
The goals of this project are also consistent with the main provisions of the National Strategy of Sustainable
Socio-Economic Development of the Republic of Belarus until 2020. The Strategy emphasizes the
importance of fulfilling obligations under international agreements in the sphere of environmental protection
and sustainable use of natural resources, and enhancing international cooperation in this sphere.
According to Article 44 of the National Security Concept of the Republic of Belarus approved by the
Edict of the President of Belarus No. 575 of November 9, 2010 ‘in the sphere of ecology and environment
external threats to the national security include: global environmental changes associated with climate
change…’. According to Article 56 of the Concept ‘…enhancement of international cooperation in the
sphere of environmental protection and legal resolution of transnational ecological issues, increasing the
accuracy of estimates and forecasts of state of environment, climate changes, dangerous weather and climatic
phenomena…’ are considered as one of the main ways of elimination of internal threats and protection from
external national security threats. That is why implementation of this project fully complies with the
abovementioned provisions of the National Security Concept of the Republic of Belarus.
This project is aligned with the Programme of pilot projects ‘on development of cooperation for
adaptation to the climate change in transboundary basins’ implemented within the framework of UNECE
Water Convention. The Programme is aimed at assisting the UN member states in implementation of the
Water Convention and the EU Water Framework Directive in the context of climate change, as well as at
supporting the UNECE member states to develop adaptation strategies and cooperation development
measures in order to adapt to climate change in transboundary basins.
8
PART III.
RESULTS AND RESOURCES FRAMEWORK
Outcome of the UNDP Country Programme: 3.1: Country’s capacity to mitigate and adapt to the climate change strengthened; 3.2: Sustainable use of the country’s natural resources
promoted.
UNDP Country Programme’s indicators: GHG emission (tons of CO2 equivalent) into the atmosphere; Environmental Code exists
Focal area (out of the 2008-2011 UNDP Strategic Plan): mainstreaming environment and energy
Partners: RUE ‘CRDIIUWR’, ENVSEC Initiative Secretariat, Zoï Environment Network, GRID-Arendal
Project title: Management of the Niemen River basin with account of adaptation to climate change
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
TARGET INDICATORS
PLANNED ACTIVITIES
2011 Year
1:
 List of indicators of water bodies
state and classification system for
assessment of their ecological
status approved for the Niemen
River basin;
 The database of climatic data for
the Niemen River basin prepared;
 Common methodology for
assessment of climate change
impact on qualitative
characteristics of water resources
drafted.
Activity 1 Assessment of the current state of the water
resources of the Niemen River basin (quantitative aspects) and
assessment of economic activities impact on these resources
1.1) Analysis of the available hydrological data and assessment of the
Niemen River’s hydrological regime change trends.
1.2) Elaboration of the proposals for (i) indicators (ecological and
chemical) to evaluate the state of water bodies common for the whole
Niemen River basin, (ii) classification system and criteria for
assessment of ecological status based on the selected indicators.
1.3) Analysis of water use characteristics and overall assessment of its
impact by means of computation of water balances under current
conditions.
1.4) Determination of priority with respect to protection and use of the
Niemen River basin’s water resources.
Activity 2. Study of the change of the climatic characteristics
for the Niemen River basin and elaboration of the climate change
scenarios
2.1) Analysis of the international experience related to the possible
climate change scenarios and models considering a possibility of their
adaptation for the Niemen River basin.
2.2) Processing and statistical analysis of the benchmark climatic data
obtained from the meteorological stations located in the Niemen River
basin.
2.3) Assessment of the climate change tendencies based on the results of
the benchmark meteorological data applying the ‘world’ models
taking into account the experience of their application in Lithuania.
Elaboration of the climate change scenarios.
2.4) Workshop to discuss preliminary research results.
RESPONSIBLE
PARTY
Component 1.
Output 1 – management of the
water resources in the Niemen
River basin at the national and
international levels improved
due to adaptation to the
climate change
Background:
1. Climate change scenarios and
climate change impact on the
water resources of the main
basins of transboundary rivers
do not exist for Belarus. There
are also no joint (with other
states located in the river basins)
climate change scenarios.
2. There are no water use
balances for the main
transboundary rivers, including
the Niemen River, with account
of climate change adaptation.
2:
 Data base on water use for the
Niemen River basin prepared;
 Database of hydrological data for
computation of water balances
prepared;
 Current water balance of the
Niemen River basin computed.
3. There are no joint information
systems (platforms) for the
Republic of Belarus and the
3:
 Concept of a common
information platform (Internet
Ministry of
Environment,
UNDP
Ministry of
Environment,
UNDP
9
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
neighboring countries located in
the transboundary river basins.
Indicators:
1. Modern scenarios and
methods for assessment of
climate change impact on the
hydrological and
hydrogeological regimes of the
Niemen River basin and the
quality of surface waters
prepared
2. Current water balance of the
Niemen River basin with
account of climate change
adaptation, including the
forecast of the Niemen River
basin runoff developed.
3. Common Internet-based
information platform, containing
data on the management of water
resources and adaptation to
climate change for the Niemen
River basin countries created
and is accessible via the Internet.
TARGET INDICATORS
database) developed and
discussed with the main
stakeholders;
 The structure of the database
developed;
 Pilot version of the database
accessible via the Internet.
Year 2012
1:
 Methodology for assessment of
climate change impacts on
qualitative characteristics of water
resources ;
 Forecast of surface water quality
change with account of the
climate change elaborated.
2:
 Forecast of the Niemen River
basin runoff change with account
of the climate change elaborated.
3.
 Final common information
platform, integrated into the
CRDIIUWR website accessible
via the Internet.
PLANNED ACTIVITIES
RESPONSIBLE
PARTY
2.5) Meeting of the Working Group / workshop-seminar.
Activity 3. Forecasting the runoff of the Niemen River basin
in the context of climate change and with account of different
scenarios for water use and socio-economic development
3.1) Selection of the common methodology to assess the climate change
impact on the hydrological and hydrogeological regime of the Niemen
River basin (taking into account international experience).
3.2) Building future water use scenarios.
3.3) Computation of the estimated future water balances and runoff
changes.
3.4) Stakeholder meeting.
Ministry of
Environment
Activity
4.
Analysis
of
the
hydrometeorological,
hydrochemical and hydrobiological monitoring systems in the Niemen
River transboundary basin and assessment of the needs for these
systems optimization for climate change monitoring (including
emergency cases)
4.1) Analysis of the meteorological and hydrological monitoring systems
and elaboration of proposals to optimize the systems to conduct
climate change monitoring (including emergency cases).
4.2) Analysis of the hydrochemical and hydrobiological monitoring
systems in the Niemen River transboundary basin and assessment of
the possibility for optimization of such systems to conduct climate
change monitoring (including emergency cases).
Ministry of
Environment
Activity 5. Estimation and forecast of the future climate change
impact on the water quality at the highest generalization level
5.1) Assessment of the current water quality in the Niemen River based on
hydrochemical and hydrobiological indicators.
5.2) Analysis of the world practice with respect to the application of
models for assessment of climate change impact on the quality of
water resources.
5.3) Assessment of the climate change possible impact on the quality of
water in the Niemen River for the selected climate change scenarios.
5.4) Meeting of the Working Group / workshop.
5.5) Stakeholder meeting.
5.6) Discussion of the climate change adaptation measures and a Niemen
River basin water resources management plans.
5.7) Final seminar.
Ministry of
Environment
10
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
TARGET INDICATORS
PLANNED ACTIVITIES
RESPONSIBLE
PARTY
Activity 6. Elaboration of the common information platform (Internet
database), containing data on water resources management and
adaptation to climate change for the Niemen River basin countries.
6.1) Development of the database concept and structure.
6.2) Preparation of the initial data and filling out the database,
development of the database pilot version.
6.3) Database trial operation and upgrade based on the project results and
comments of the stakeholders. Final database integration into the RUE
‘CRDIIUWR’ website.
Ministry of
Environment,
UNDP, RUE
‘CRDIIUWR’
Project management
Ministry of
Environment,
UNDP
11
PART IV.
PROJECT WORK PLAN
PROJECT WORK PLAN

activity
Activities
Activity 1 Assessment of the current state of the
water resources of the Niemen River basin
(quantitative aspects) and assessment of economic
activities impact on these resources
1.1) Analysis of the available hydrological data and
assessment of the Niemen River’s hydrological regime
change trends.
1.2) Elaboration of the proposals for (i) indicators
(ecological and chemical) to evaluate the state of water
bodies common for the whole Niemen River basin, (ii)
classification system and criteria for assessment of
ecological status based on the selected indicators.
1.3) Analysis of water use characteristics and overall
assessment of its impact by means of computation of
water balances under current conditions.
1.4) Determination of priority with respect to
protection and use of the Niemen River basin’s water
resources.
Activity 2. Study of the change of the climatic
characteristics for the Niemen River basin and
elaboration of the climate change scenarios
2.1) Analysis of the world experience of the possible
climate change scenarios and the used models with
account of their possible adaptation for the Niemen
River basin.
2.2) Processing and statistical analysis of the
benchmark climatic data obtained from the
meteorological stations located in the Niemen River
basin.
2.3) Assessment of the climate change tendencies
based on the results of the benchmark meteorological
data applying the ‘world’ models taking into account
the experience of their application in Lithuania.
Elaboration of the climate change scenarios.
2.4) Workshop to discuss preliminary research results.


meetings
2012
2011
1
2
3
4
5
6










7
8
9
10
11
 




 




12
1
2
3
4
5

















 















 















 















 















 









6





 









8

9

10

































 















  






























12




11



7














12
Activities
2.5) Meeting of the Working Group / workshopseminar.
Activity 3. Forecasting the runoff of the Niemen
River basin in the context of climate change and
with account of different scenarios for water use
and socio-economic development
3.1) Selection of the common methodology to assess
the climate change impact on the hydrological and
hydrogeological regime of the Niemen River basin
(taking into account international experience).
3.2) Building future water use scenarios.
3.3) Computation of the estimated future water
balances and runoff changes.
3.4) Stakeholder meeting
Activity 4. Analysis of the hydrometeorological,
hydrochemical and hydrobiological monitoring
systems in the Niemen River transboundary basin
and assessment of the needs for these systems
optimization for climate change monitoring
(including emergency cases)
4.1) Analysis of the meteorological and hydrological
monitoring systems and elaboration of proposals to
optimize the systems to conduct climate change
monitoring (including emergency cases).
4.2) Analysis of the hydrochemical and
hydrobiological monitoring systems in the Niemen
River transboundary basin and assessment of the
possibility for optimization of such systems to conduct
climate change monitoring (including emergency
cases).
Activity 5. Estimation and forecast of the future
climate change impact on the water quality at the
highest generalization level
5.1) Assessment of the current water quality in the
Niemen River based on hydrochemical and
hydrobiological indicators.
5.2) Analysis of the world practice with respect to the
application of models for assessment of climate change
impact on the quality of water resources.
5.3) Assessment of the climate change possible impact
on the quality of water in the Niemen River for the
selected climate change scenarios.
2012
2011
1
2
3
4
5
6





   





7
 
8

9

10


11


12


1
2
3
4
5









6

7

8

9

10







11
12
 













 















 






















 






















 




  




















 


















 


















 















 















 















 















 

















































13
Activities
1
2
3
4
5
6
5.4) Meeting of the Working Group / workshop





5.5) Stakeholder meeting
5.6) Discussion of the climate change adaptation
measures and a Niemen River basin water resources
management plans.
5.7) Final seminar










Activity 6. Elaboration of the common information
platform (Internet database), containing data on
water resources management and adaptation to
climate change for the Niemen River basin
countries.
6.1) Development of the database concept and
structure.
6.2) Preparation of the initial data and filling out the
database, development of the database pilot version.
6.3) Database trial operation and upgrade based on the
project results and comments of the stakeholders. Final
database integration into the RUE ‘CRDIIUWR’
website.
Project management
2012
2011
7
8
9
10
11
 





 





 




 


12
1
2








3
4
5
6

  

7

8

9

10













  
 




















11
12
 
 


 






 















 






















 



























 















 




















14
PART V.
MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Protection of Belarus will act as a national
implementing agency. The main functions of the Ministry of Environment related to project management
presented below.
The Republican Unitary Enterprise “Central Research and Development Institute for Integrated Use of Water
Resources”, which is the leading national agency on the issues pertaining to conservation and sustainable use
of water resources, will provide scientific support to project implementation. This will include, among other
issues, maintaining the State Water Cadastre, water use balances calculation, development of integrated
schemes for water resources use, EIA studies of development projects planned within water bodies’ basins,
estimations and prognosis of water bodies’ hydrological regimes and water quality taking into account
climate change.
The Ministry of Environment/RUE ‘CRDIIUWR’ will provide a separate room equipped with telephone line
and furniture to host the project office.
National Project Coordinator (NPC) appointed by the Ministry of Environment will be responsible for
coordination of the project activities. For effective and timely project implementation a Project Manager
(PM) will be hired, who will also perform the functions related to administrative and financial management
of the project. The PM will be selected through an open competitive process in accordance with the
respective UNDP rules and procedures. Effectiveness of the PM work will be evaluated annually by the
UNDP Belarus. Based on the evaluation results and consultations with the NPC, a decision will be made on
renewal/non-renewal of the PM contract. Tentative ToR for the PM presented in Appendix 2.
An annual detailed work plan for the first project year will be prepared and approved by the UNDP and the
Ministry of Environment within the first month of the project implementation. Work plans for the second and
subsequent year of project implementation will be prepared within the last month of the current year.
The project will be implemented in close cooperation with the UNECE and the Secretariat of the
“Environment and Security” Initiative.
Functions and duties on management and coordination of project activities
The overall coordination (implementation and management) of the project activities will be conducted by the
Ministry of environment. A Project Steering Committee (PSC) will be established, which main functions will
include monitoring of the project implementation process, review and approval of annual work plans, annual
and final reports, and other documents prepared by the project.
Main functions of the Ministry of Environment













Ensuring project implementation;
Supervising operation of the project personell;
Assisting in organization of procurement conducted within the project implementation and control of
the use of the procured goods and services;
Approval of technical assignments, tender bids, etc.;
Ensuring the effective implementation of training and awareness raising actions;
Ensuring preparation and submission of project implementation reports to the Ministry of Economy;
Monitoring and evaluation of the project implementation;
Organizing PSC meetings;
Informing the Council of Ministers, ministries and other national governing authorities about the
project progress on their request;
Coordinating activities of the organizations taking part in the project actions;
Analyzing effectiveness of the project implementation by different components;
Developing proposals on improvement of the project implementation activities; and
Approval of work plans, reports, terms of reference etc.
15
Main functions of the UNDP
Functions performed by UNDP within the project implementation framework are presented in Appendix 1.
PART VI.
MONITORING AND EVALUATION
Project monitoring and evaluation will be conducted in accordance with the established UNDP and SAICM
Secretariat rules and procedures. Project Manager will report regularly to the UNDP Belarus and NPC on the
project’s progress. In the beginning of project implementation, the Project Manager will prepare an annual
detailed work plan (ADWP), defying the mail stages of project implementation, time frame, and quality
criteria based on with project monitoring and evaluation will be conducted. An ADWP will be approved by
the PSC. A gender balance will be sought for implementation of all the project activities.
Project monitoring will be performed on a continuous basis to ensure efficient use of resources and
achievement of the planned outcomes and outputs in accordance with the work plan.
Project Monitoring and Evaluation Plan is presented in Appendix 4.
Project audit, if necessary, will be performed in accordance with the UNDP requirements and current
legislation of the Republic of Belarus.
Quality Management for Project Activity Results
Assessment of the current state of the water resources
of the Niemen River basin (quantitative aspects) and Start: July, 2011
Activity 1
assessment of economic activities impact on these End: November, 2011
resources
To increase the efficiency of the Niemen River basin’s water resources management with
Goal
account of the current water use characteristics
To achieve this goal activities 1.1-1.4 will be performed
Description
Quality criteria
Assessment method
Assessment date
Report on the analysis of the current state of Experts’ reports. Annual project report
3-d quarter
water resources and impact of economic
2011
activities on the water environment of the
Niemen River basin approved by the
Ministry of Environment.
Proposals regarding water bodies state
indicators approved for the whole Niemen
River basin, classification system and
criteria for assessment of ecological status
based on the selected indicators.
Study of the change of the climatic characteristics for
Start: July, 2011
the Niemen River basin and elaboration of the climate
End: February, 2012
change scenarios
Elaboration of scenarios of possible climate change for the Niemen River basin
Goal
To achieve this goal activities 2.1-2.5 will be performed
Description
Quality criteria
Assessment method
Assessment date
Climate change scenarios; Internet-based Experts’ reports. Annual project report
1st quarter of
platform containing data on water resources
2012
management and adaptation to climate
change in the three countries.
Activity 2
16
Forecasting the runoff of the Niemen River basin in
the context of climate change and with account of Start: October 2011
Activity 3
different scenarios for water use and socio-economic End: March 2012
development
Improving efficiency of the Niemen River basin water resources management with
Goal
account of adaptation to the climate change
To achieve this goal activities 3.1-3.4 will be performed
Description
Quality criteria
Assessment method
Assessment date
Scenarios of the future water use, Experts’ reports. Annual project report
1st quarter of
assessment of the forecasted climate change
2012
impact on the runoff, based on the results of
water balance computations, which were
made with account of joint climate change
scenarios.
Analysis of the hydrometeorological, hydrochemical
and hydrobiological monitoring systems in the Niemen
Start: January 2012
Activity 4
River transboundary basin and assessment of the
End: September 2012
needs for these systems optimization for climate
change monitoring (including emergency cases)
Improving efficiency of monitoring system for climate change monitoring (including
Goal
emergency cases)
To achieve this goal activities 4.1-4.2 will be performed
Description
Quality criteria
Assessment method
Assessment date
Proposals for optimization of the monitoring Experts’ reports. Annual project report
3d quarter of
system for the Niemen River basin with
2012
account of climate change
Estimation and forecast of the future climate change
Start: January 2012
Activity 5
impact on the water quality at the highest
End: October 2012
generalization level
Improving water resources management in the Niemen River basin taking into account
Goal
climate change
To achieve this goal activities 5.1-5.7 will be performed
Description
Quality criteria
Assessment method
Assessment date
Assessment of climate change impact on the Experts’ reports. Annual project report
4th quarter of
quality of water in the Niemen River.
2012
Elaboration of the common information platform Start: October 2011
(Internet database), containing data on water resources End: December 2012
management and adaptation to climate change for the
Niemen River basin countries.
Improvement of the efficiency of information support to the management of the Niemen
Goal
River basin water resources for all the countries located in the basin, informing the
concerned users.
To achieve this goal activities 6.1-6.3 will be implemented
Description
Quality criteria
Assessment method
Assessment date
Database is integrated into the CRDIIUWR Experts’ reports. Annual project report
3d and 4th quarter
website and is accessible via the Internet
of 2012
Activity 6
17
PART VII.
LEGAL FRAMEWORK
This project document is a document referenced in Article 1 of the Standard Basic Agreement concerning
Assistance signed between the Government of the Republic of Belarus and the United Nations Development
Programme on September 24, 1992.
According to Article 3 of the Standard Basic Agreement concerning Assistance the Executing Agency is
fully responsible for its own protection and security, including protection and security of its property and
personnel as well as the UNDP property being in the custody of such Executing Agency.
The Executing Agency shall:

Submit the corresponding security plan, taking into account the safety situation in the country where
the project is implemented;

Foresee all the possible risks and obstacles related to security issues and ensure the implementation
of the security plan.
UNDP reserves the right to check the implementation of such a plan and, if necessary, make proposals
regarding improvement of such a plan. Inability to elaborate and implement the required security plan will
lead to termination of the present Agreement.
Executing Agency agrees to exert every effort to guarantee that none of the UNDP funds used under this
Project is used to support persons or organizations implicated in terrorist attacks and that none of the
recipients of any UNDP assistance is included to the Security Council Committee’s list, made in accordance
with
UN
resolution
1267
(1999).
The
list
is
available
on
the
website
http://www.un.org/Docs/sc/committees/1267/1267ListEng.htm. This condition shall be included into all the
Agreements concluded with sub-recipients or sub-contractors within the framework of this project document.
18
PART VIII.
APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1: UNDP SERVICES AIMED AT PROJECT IMPLEMENTATION
Upon request of the Executing Agency UNDP may render assistance in project implementation with
regard to following areas:
a. Determination and/or employment of the project personnel;
b. Determination and assistance in the conduct of educational activities and seminars;
c. Procurement of goods and services;
Procurement and personnel employment shall be done in accordance with the UNDP rules and
procedures. Detailed description of possible services which can be provided by UNDP is specifies in
the table below. In case if some additional assistance on behalf of UNDP is required the
corresponding amendments are made to the project document appendices by mutual consent of the
UNDP Resident Representative and the Executing Agency.
In accordance with the provisions of the Standard Basic Agreement Concerning Assistance, signed
between the Government of the Republic of Belarus and United Nations Development Programme on
September 24, 1992 and provisions of the project document, regulations on obligations, privileges and
immunities shall apply. The Government undertakes full responsibility for the project implemented
by the Executing Agency in the national implementation mode. UNDP’s responsibility to assists the
Executing Agency is limited to the services specified in the table below.
Any claims or disputes arising in connection with or from the UNDP’s assistance shall be settled in
accordance with the provisions of the Standard Basic Agreement concerning Assistance.
According to the document of ‘Management of the Niemen River Basin with Account of Adaptation
to Climate Change’ Project, UNDP provides the services to the Executing Agency in terms of
national implementation of the project as specified below.
Services to be provided:
Type of service
Schedule of provision of
services
Price of services (where
appropriate)
Amount and UNDP
compensation method
(where appropriate)
Travel authorization
The price is defined
Based on the annual project according to the
plans for the whole time of universal services price
the project
list annually approved by
the UNDP Headquarters
The total compensation
amount is defined by the
number of transactions made
and is reimbursed via UNDP’s
Atlas accounting system on
the quarterly basis
Administrative services
(postage expenses, assistance
in getting visa, customs
clearance, etc)
The price is defined
according to the internal
services price list
Based on the annual project annually approved by the
plans for the whole time of UNDP / The price is
the project
defined according to the
universal services price
list annually approved by
the UNDP Headquarters
The total compensation
amount is defined by the
number of service requests and
is regularly reimbursed via
UNDP’s Atlas accounting
system
19
Effecting payments
The price is defined
Based on the annual project according to the
plans for the whole time of universal services price
the project
list annually approved by
the UNDP Headquarters
The total compensation
amount is defined by the
number of transactions made
and is reimbursed via UNDP’s
Atlas accounting system on
the quarterly basis
Provision of services and
assistance in the sphere of
computer equipment and
information technologies
The price is defined
according to the internal
services price list
Based on the annual project
annually approved by the
plans for the whole time of
UNDP, and
the project
proportionally to the
allocated expenses for
IT specialist
Total compensation amount is
defined by the number of
service requests and time spent
and is regularly reimbursed via
UNDP’s Atlas accounting
system
Procurement of goods and
services
The price is defined
Based on the annual project according to the
plans for the whole time of universal services price
the project
list annually approved by
the UNDP Headquarters
The total compensation
amount is defined by the
number of transactions made
and is reimbursed via UNDP’s
Atlas accounting system on
the quarterly basis
Staff selection and
recruitment
The price is defined
Based on the annual project according to the
plans for the whole time of universal services price
the project
list annually approved by
the UNDP Headquarters
The total compensation
amount is defined by the
number of transactions made
and is reimbursed via UNDP’s
Atlas accounting system on
the quarterly basis
Provision of information and
communication services
Based on the information
and communication
activities plan annually
approved by the UNDP
The price is defined
according to the UNDP’s
internal instruction
regarding information
and communication
services
The total amount is 1% of the
approved budget funded from
the UNDP resources twice a
year via UNDP’s Atlas
accounting system
Functions and responsibilities of the involved parties are detailed in Resources and Outputs
Framework and Project Management sections of this project document.
20
APPENDIX 2. TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR THE PROJECT MANAGER
UNDP PROJECT
Management of the Niemen River basin with account of adaptation to climate change
Objective:
The Project Manager is responsible for successful project implementation, efficient management,
achievement of the planned outcomes and outputs, coordination and control of the project activities in
accordance with the UNDP rules and procedures.
Recruitment period:
1 year with possible extension
Job duties:

Control and coordination of the project activities in order to ensure the achievement of the outcomes
in accordance with the project document and UNDP rules and procedures;

Day-to-day project management, budgeting and control of expenditures, planning and general
monitoring of the project;

Preparation of the detailed project work plans in consultation with the Ministry of Environment and
UNDP, ensuring fulfillment of the work plans, updating plans in case of necessity;

Selection of local experts to perform certain activities in consultation with the Ministry of
Environment and UNDP, supervision of the time of work performance;

Preparation of the project progress reports for UNDP and Ministry of Economy, preparation of other
reports requested by the UNDP and Ministry of Environment;

Control over expenditure of the project funds in accordance with the budget, work plan and project
document;

Preparation of terms of reference for the project consultants;

Monitoring of risks and indicators of project performance according to the project logical
framework;

Responsibility for fulfillment of target financial indicators in accordance with the approved annual
work plans;

Assurance of proper information exchange between project stakeholders;

Assurance of the proper operational and financial closeout of the project in accordance with the
UNDP procedures;

Maintenance of regular contacts with the Ministry of Environment, the RUE ‘CRDIIUWR’ and
UNDP regarding the project implementation issues which are within the competence of the
mentioned institutions;

Conduct of negotiations on cooperation with state administration bodies and potential donors to
identify and raise additional resources;

Prepares project budget revisions;

Prepares financial reports for project, donors and other parties involved in implementation and
funding of activities;

Interacts with UNDP CO Programme/Finance Unit to request funds transfer, verify financial reports,
budget revisions, receipts of contributions;

Provides financial monitoring over project commitments and expenditures, assist in assuring
proper project delivery;

Provides proper control of the supporting documents for payments, reviews financial reports
provided by implementing local partners;

Prepares payment requests with proper support documentation;

Prepares Travel requests and Requisitions for UNDP CO processing;

Prepares recruitment requests and requisitions in the Atlas;

Enter financial data into Atlas using external access: responsible for creation of requisitions,
vouchers, vendors and Atlas reports;

Performs functions of petty cash custodian;

Maintenances and control of the assets and materials, equipment transfers;

Arranges different activities within the project (trainings, seminars, procurement of tickets,
arrangements on study visits, etc.);

Keeps files with project documents, consultants’ reports;

Drafts correspondence and documents within project;
21


Arranges meetings, both internal and external, takes minutes/notes;
Provide interpretation and/or translation as requested;
Expected outcomes:

Successful implementation of the project and achievement of all the outcomes pursuant to the project
logical framework
Required skills and experience:

University degree in the field of natural or technical sciences;

Work experience in management of international technical assistance projects (minimum 1year);

Experience in financial management of UNDP projects;

Work experience in interaction with Belarusian institutions involved in environment protection;

Outstanding communicative, organizational and management skills;

Fluency in spoken and written Russian and English;

Computer literacy;
Contract conditions:

Full-time employment;

Project Manager reports to the UNDP and works in close collaboration with the Ministry of
Environment;

Belarus citizenship and permanent residence on the territory of Belarus.
22
APPENDIX 3: RISK ANALYSIS
№
1
Risk
description
Project
registration
delay
Detection
date
June 2011
Type
Operational
Impact on the project
and probability
Delay of the project
starting date, what, in
its turn, will lead to
reduction of the time
available for
implementation of the
planned activities.
Tight schedule of
implementation of all
the planned activities
may affect the quality
of the project
outcomes.
Countermeasures
Monitoring
Preliminary consultations with
governmental agencies responsible
for project registration
UNDP
Detected Date of
by
update
UNDP
July 2011
Status
Probability – 2
Impact – 4
23
APPENDIX 4: MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT PLAN
Action
Description
Planned Date
Execution
Date
Notes
Detailed Work
Plan
Development of a detailed project
work plan for first project year.
First project
month
Prepared by Project Manager in
English and Russian.
Quality
Progress Report
(QPR)
Quality Progress Report is prepared
on quarterly bases and should focus
on the completion of key results,
based on quality criteria and methods
captured in the Quality Management
table presented in Section Quality
Management for Project Activity
Results.
Annual Review Report shall consist
of the Atlas standard format for the
QPR covering the whole year with
updated information for each element
of the QPR as well as a summary of
results achieved against pre-defined
annual targets at the output level.
Based on the Final Project Review
Report, a final project review shall be
conducted, to assess the performance
of the project. This review is driven
by the Project Steering Committee
and may involve other as required. It
shall focus on the extent to which
progress is being made towards
outputs, and that these remain
aligned to appropriate outcomes.
Preparation of quarter financial and
ad-hock reports
Lesson-learned report is prepared at
the end of each project year; and at
the end of the project.
Within one week
after a quarter
ends.
Prepared by Project Manager in
English and Russian using the
standard UNDP report format
(available in the Atlas
Executive Snapshot)
Within two
weeks after the
project ends.
Prepared by Project Manager in
English and Russian
Within one
month after the
submission of
the an Annual
Review Report.
Prepared by Project Manager in
English and Russian
Within 2 weeks
before project
ends.
Prepared by Project Manager
using a format adopted from the
UNDP Lesson-Learned log in
English.
Final Project
Review Report
Final Project
Review
Lesson-learned
Report
24