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NATIONAL CAPACITY SELF ASSESSMENT
FOR GLOBAL ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT
May 2009
Acknowledgements The National Environment Service would like to gratefully express our gratitude to the NES staff, NCSA Steering Committee and Technical Working Groups, those individuals, experts, institutions and community groups who kindly gave valuable assistance and information during consultations and the compilation of this report. Meitaki Maata.
Endorsed by the Government of the Cook Islands under Cabinet Minute CM (10) 189
This report was prepared by the National Environment Service, with the assistance of the NCSA Technical Working Groups, SPREP, David Butler and Oceania Global Consultants Ltd.
Prepared for the Cook Islands NCSA Project, National Environment Service COOK ISLANDS
List of Acronyms
ABS Access and Benefit Sharing - refers to Equitable Sharing of Benefits and Access to Biological Resources ADB Asian Development Bank AIACC Assessment of Impacts and Adaptation to Climate Change AOSIS Alliance of Small Island States (for UNFCCC) BCU Biodiversity Conservation Unit of the National Environment Service BPOA Barbados Programme of Action BTIB Business Trade and Investment Board CBDAMPIC Capacity-building for Development of Adaptation Measures in Pacific Islands Countries CBO Community Based Organisation CDM Clean Development Mechanisms CFC 12 Chlorofluorocarbon 12 CHARM Comprehensive Hazards and Risks Management CIANGO Cook Islands Association of Non-Government Organisations CLIMAP Climate Change Adaptation Program for the Pacific EIA Environment Impact Assessment EMCI Emergency Management Cook Islands GEF Global Environment Facility GHG Greenhouse Gases GIS Geographical Information Systems GMO Genetically Modified Organism HOM Head of Ministry INC Initial National Communication IPCC Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change LMO Living Modified Organism LPG Liquid Petroleum Gas MEA Multilateral Environment Agreements MFEM Ministry of Finance and Economic Management MMR Ministry of Marine Resources MOA Ministry of Agriculture MOE Ministry of Education MOH Ministry of Health MOIP Ministry of Infrastructure and Planning MOT Ministry of Transport MOU Memorandum of Understanding NAP National Action Plan for UNCCD NAPA National Adaptation Plan of Action for UNFCCC NBSAP National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan NCAP National Compliance Action Plan for ODS NCCCT National Climate Change Country Team NCSA National Capacity Self-Assessment NES National Environment Service NESAF National Environment Strategic Action Framework NGOs Non-Government Organisations NHT Natural Heritage Trust NSDP National Sustainable Development Plan ODS Ozone Depletion Substance OMIA Office of the Minister for Outer Islands Administration PEIN Pacific Environment Information Network PICCAP Pacific Island Climate Change Assistance Program PI-GCOS Pacific Islands Global Climate Observation Systems PILN Pacific Invasives Learning Network PIREP Pacific Island Renewable Energy Project POPs Persistent Organic Pollutants PopGIS Population GIS – software programme SARS Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome SGP Small Grants Programme (under the GEF) SIDS Small Island Developing States SLM Sustainable Land Management SPREP South Pacific Regional Environment Programme SOPAC South Pacific Applied Geoscience Commission TAU Te Aponga Uira o Tumu-te-Varovaro TCA Takitumu Conservation Area TIS Te Ipukarea Society TKP Traditional Knowledge and Practises UNCBD United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity UNCCD United Nations Convention for Combating Desertification UNDP United Nations Development Program UNEP United Nations Environment Programme UNFCCC United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change V&A Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment (under Climate Change) WSSD World Summit for Sustainable Development WWF World Wide Fund for Nature
Table of Contents
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS...................................................................................................................II
LIST OF ACRONYMS......................................................................................................................III
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY................................................................................................................... 6
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS................................................................................................................. 7
PART 1: NCSA Final Report
A. Introduction
1.1 Cook Islands – National context and sustainable development challenges......................13
1.2 National Sustainable Development and Environment Management Agenda................. 13
1.3 Commitment to Global and Regional Environment Agendas on Climate Change
Conservation of Biological Diversity and Combating Land Degradation.....................14
B. The National Capacity Self Assessment Project
2.1 Background............................................................................................16
2.2 Purpose ............................................................................................... .16
2.3 Approach...............................................................................................16
2.4 Stakeholder participation............................................................................16
2.5 NCSA Project Outputs...............................................................................17
PART 2 Capacity Development Action Plan: 2009 - 2013
A. Introduction 2.1.1 Purpose of the Capacity Development Action Plan ..............................................18
2.1.2 The Action Plan Matrix – A tool for implementation, monitoring and evaluation...........18
B. Capacity Development Action Plan Matrices
2.2.1 Capacity Development Action Plan Matrix –Biological Diversity..............................22
2.2.2 Capacity Development Action Plan Matrix – Climate Change .................................29
2.2.3 Capacity Development Action Plan Matrix – Land Degradation................................44
2.2.4 Capacity Development Action Plan Matrix – Cross-cutting issues..............................50
C. Implementing and Monitoring the CDAP 71
REFERENCES....................................................................................................72
ANNEX 1 - SUMMARY OF CAPACITY GAPS AND ISSUES IDENTIFIED THROUGH THE THEMATIC ASSESSMENT AND CROSS CUTTING ASSESSMENT REPORTS............................................74
ANNEX 2 - SUMMARY OF NSDP AND NESAF GOALS....................................................81
ANNEX 3 - BENEFITS OF THE NCSA PROJECT AND LESSONS LEARNED...............................82
ANNES 4 - STAKEHOLDERS CONSULTED....................................................................84
Executive Summary
Cook Islands, like many developing countries, faces increasing challenges in managing its environment, addressing global environment agendas and objectives and in achieving its national Sustainable Development Goals and its commitment to the Millennium Development Goals. In recognition of the need for support and collective action for effective environment management, the Cook Islands became a Party to three important Multi-lateral Environment Agreements namely United Nations Conventions on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Conservation of Biodiversity (UNCBD) and Combating of Desertification – or Land Degradation (UNCCD) The need to participate effectively in these conventions and the recognition of the limited capacity at the national level led Cook Islands to join 151 other GEF developing country members to make use of the opportunity presented by the GEF of funding assistance to undertake a National Capacity Self Assessment (NCSA) targeting the three conventions and the issues they were set up to address.
This report is the last of a series of reports produced under the NCSA project. It presents an overview of the country context and sustainable development challenges, highlights the process involved in undertaking the NCSA and the main issues and capacity gaps identified through the process. An important section of the report presents the Capacity Development Action Plan intended to guide, promote and monitor actions by a wide range of stakeholders to achieve identified capacity development outputs and environment outcomes and goals. The Action Plan also identifies the institutional arrangement for implementation, coordination and monitoring of the actions and identifies likely challenges for implementation.
Environment issues, gaps in capacity to address them and capacity development actions are discussed under different sections on Climate Change, Biological Diversity and Land Degradation. A number of environment and capacity issues have been grouped under the category of Cross-cutting Issues. These are issues that are related to all three of the Convention themes, need the coordinated action of a number of stakeholders in an integrated manner and are identified as a common requirement across all three conventions. The Cross-cutting Issues identified include: Education, Awareness and Training, Knowledge Management, Mainstreaming of Environment Management, Implementation of MEA’s, Integrated Resource Management, Integrated Coastal Zone Management, Water Resources Management and Waste Management.
The NCSA has been a challenging exercise that has proven to be very useful for Cook Islands. In addition to the extensive assessment of capacity needs and identification of capacity development actions the project has also brought additional benefits. These include: Strengthened collaboration and coordination amongst national agencies, heightened awareness of environment issues by leaders and the public, sharing of experiences and learning exchanges with other Pacific Island Countries, planning for the review of NESAF, strengthening linkages between capacity development for environment management with other national environment and sustainable development agendas and initiatives and the identification of potential project concepts for discussion and negotiation as part of the GEF Pacific Alliance for Sustainability (GEF-PAS).
The challenge now will be to ensure that this action plan is implemented and does not just become another report. To that end, it is hoped that actions identified through the NCSA will be integrated into the revised National Environment Strategic Action Framework (NESAF) and National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP), both of which are planned to undergo review by the end of 2008. As living documents, capacity issues for environment management may be regularly assessed and addressed through this process of review. The integration of actions into national planning and budgetary processes as well as the development of project proposals for funding will also be key to ensuring the implementation of this action plan and the support necessary for effective and sustainable environment management.
Summary of Findings
This plan contains a comprehensive list of actions required to build capacity to respond to the challenges of biodiversity conservation, climate change and land degradation (as covered by the three key conventions) and nine cross-cutting subjects. This list is divided into a series of goals and some of these goals have a series of sub-headings as themes.
This section summarises the key issues affecting each subject and then lists the highest priority actions for each which it is hoped can be implemented over the next three years – a timeframe that coincides with national strategic planning.
BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY
Goal | High Priority Capacity Building Actions |
Goal 1: | • Develop & implement National Biodiversity Programme including formalising Biodiversity Taskforce (1.1.1) |
Integrating & | • Strengthen biodiversity conservation and policy development capacity of relevant Government agencies and |
institutionalising | NGO’s (1.1.2, 1.1.4) |
biodiversity | • Ensure biodiversity considerations are incorporated in national and sectoral planning (1.1.3, 1.1.4) |
Goal 2: | • Establish the National Biodiversity Programme and strengthen the capacity of the NES to lead it. (2.1.1) |
Conservation of | • Develop local capacity for monitoring, evaluation and management of ecosystems and protected natural areas, |
species & | including strengthening the roles of NGOs and local communities through provision of resources and training |
ecosystems | (2.1.2) |
Goal 3: | • Strengthen capacity of relevant agencies to implement the Biosecurity Act 2008, including training and provision |
Invasive species | of resources (3.1.1) • In line with the National Biodiversity Programme, develop a National Invasive Species Strategy between all stakeholders to coordinate efforts to manage invasive species, including priorities for eradication and control of invasive species (3.1.3) |
Goal 4: Biosafety | • Designate an authority to be responsible for Biosafety to control trans-boundary and inter-island movement of terrestrial and marine flora and fauna and of Living Modified organisms (LMOs) and Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) (4.1.1) |
Goal 5: | • Develop legislation to manage all activities related to Access and Benefit Sharing of Cook Islands biological |
Access & | resources. Including |
benefit sharing | • mandating the Biodiversity Conservation Unit (BCU) within the National Environment Service as coordinators (supported by capacity development of staff in ABS issues, negotiations and mediation) • a requirement for thorough risk assessment procedures before any proposed ABS activity or research can be approved (5.1.1) |
Goal 6: Information management | • Develop and maintain an integrated biodiversity information system to manage core environment and biodiversity information in a central comprehensive framework, including of past, current and on-going biodiversity related activities and research through support, resources and training of appropriate personnel |
Key Issues:
→ Island ecosystems and species under threat as a result of a host of factors including infrastructure development, agriculture development, and natural disasters.
→ Increasing threat of invasive species entering Cook Islands and impacting negatively on the bio-diversity, economy and peoples way of life.
→ Increasing risk of LMO’s and GMO’s entering Cook Islands and impacting negatively on the bio-diversity, peoples’ health and the economy.
→ Increasing risk of Cook Islands government and people missing out on future Equitable Sharing of Benefits and Access to Biodiversity (ABS)
CLIMATE CHANGE
Goal | High Priority Capacity Building Actions |
Goal 1: Integrating and institutionalising climate change | • Develop and implement a National Climate Change Policy, Programme, and Strategy and Action Plan to address risks of climate change to the environment, economy and people of the Cook Islands. • Incorporate climate change into the National Development Plans and discuss proposed actions at all levels of planning and forums |
Goal 2: People of Cook Islands adapting to climate change | Theme: Adaptation | • Integrate Climate Change adaptation into national, NGO, civil society and private sector policies, programmes, and initiatives using appropriate tools, (for example use of EIAs, cost benefit analysis, vulnerability assessments) • Expand upon current information on adaptation, particularly within the NESAF, to fully articulate priorities and project profiles with an appropriate framework. | |
Theme: Vulnerability & Adaptation | • Develop local technical and human capacity to carry out Vulnerability and Adaptation assessments, particularly at the community level | |
Theme: | • Identify key data gaps in research and systematic observation and develop data collection | |
| Research & | programmes as part of the overall national programme for climate change. | |
| Systematic | • Strengthen technical and human capacity for continuous research and systematic observation in | |
| Observation | general and analytical capacity for monitoring of climate change, including through training and upskilling of Meteorology Service staff. | |
Theme: | • Promote and support dialogue, exchange of information and coordination amongst early | |
| Disaster Risk | warning, disaster risk reduction, disaster response, development and other relevant agencies and | |
| Management | institutions at all levels, with the aim of fostering a holistic and multi-hazard approach towards disaster risk reduction. • Assess existing human resource capacities and develop regular training and learning programmes in disaster risk reduction targeted at specific sectors (development planners, emergency managers, local government officials, etc.). | |
Goal 3: Cook Islands contributing to mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions and climate change | Theme: GHG Inventories | • Develop capacity and mechanisms to undertake annual GHG Inventories and improve data quality and collection, including establishing institutional arrangements with key agencies and private sector, with resulting information mainstreamed into statistical bulletins, energy development plans and disseminated to stakeholders. | |
Theme: Mitigating GHG’s | • Develop overarching National Policy and legislation to reduce GHG emissions in the Cook Islands through the development and implementation of Renewable Energy, Vehicle Emissions and Importation Standards, Energy Efficiency Standards, Economic Incentives to reduce emissions and the integration of locally appropriate sustainable fuels. | |
Theme: | • Reduce the reliance on high GHG based fossil fuel by identifying and adopting technically | |
| Renewable | feasible and financial viable alternative energy sources for all islands, including by undertaking | |
| Energy | cost-benefit analysis of RE implementation and technologies • Develop and implement a Renewable Energy Development Plan for Rarotonga a s a priority to reduce petroleum imports and control electricity demand growth on Rarotonga. | |
Theme: Energy Efficiency | • Create an enabling environment for energy efficiency through the development and implementation of policies and legislation for importation, design, construction, installation, and use of appliances and technologies to restrict or ban (low energy efficiency products) | |
Goal 4: Cook Islands climate change information is effectively managed and exchanged | • Define responsibilities of relevant agencies and organisations with regards to generating and implementing climate change data collection and information management programmes and identify appropriate personnel within each organisation to take on this responsibility. (4.1.1) |
Goal 5: People of the Cook Islands are aware and educated on climate change | • Develop a systematic approach to environment education awareness including regular specific climate change communications strategies and measures for different levels, including NGOs and community groups (5.1.1) |
Goal 6: Appropriate technology transfer to support climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts | • Undertake Technology Needs Assessment and Technology Transfer Project Design (6.1.1) |
Key Issues: → Increasing frequency of extreme events such as cyclones, changes in weather patterns affecting agriculture production, increased coastal erosion due to sea level rise and increasing intensity of storm surges, all causing losses to the biodiversity, economy and people’s lives. → The country’s generally low level of resilience and low capacity to adapt. → Limited use of technologies and funding mechanisms for cleaner, more efficient and sustainable sources of energy and a low level of involvement and contribution to global efforts at mitigating the causes of climate change.
Note: Although the level of GHG emissions by Cook Islands is very low compared to many other countries the move to be more efficient in the use of energy and adopt appropriate renewable energy technologies will bring many benefits to the country and contribute to its sustainable development plan objectives.
LAND DEGRADATION
Goal | High Priority Capacity Building Actions |
Goal 1: Implementing Sustainable Land Management and mitigating | Theme: Development | • Undertake a comprehensive inventory of natural resources, land degradation and existing development conditions on a GIS platform, to provide baseline information for resource management and development decisions (1.1.1) • Develop and promote locally appropriate measures and practises for mitigating land degradation from land development to developers, the private sector and communities for voluntary compliance in incorporating recommendations into all land development activities (1.1.2) |
Theme: | • Ensure that environment considerations for land degradation and sustainable land management are |
Land | Land Use | promoted and integrated into relevant sectoral policies and plans (1.2.1) |
Degradation | Practises | • Widely promote locally appropriate and environmentally sustainable land management and agricultural practises, that takes into consideration human health in order to prevent further land degradation (1. 2.2) |
Theme: | • Undertake assessment and data collection programme to determine and map extent, severity and |
| Rehabilitation | causes of degraded land areas in the Cook Islands including possible options for rehabilitation |
| of Degraded | (1.3.1) |
| Land | • Develop best practise guidelines for activities that may degrade land to minimise potential land degradation and develop rehabilitation plans following use (1.3.2) |
Goal 2: Land Degradation and SLM mainstreamed into national planning | • Develop and adopt an integrated land and resource management framework that is in harmony with the principles of sustainable land management and the customary land tenure systems, to guide land use change, tourism and urban development and associated infrastructure based on the links between SLM, environment sustainability and economic development (2.1.1) • Complete the National Action Plan for Land Degradation, ensuring coverage of issues in the Outer Islands and strengthen national ownership of the LD NAP across all sectors and into relevant national development plans (2.1.2) |
Goal 3: People of the CI’s accessing information and technical capacities for land degradation | • Strengthen the capacity of the designated agency to facilitate and manage a central land and resource information system that is accessible by all stakeholders (3.1.1) |
Key Issues: → Land-use activities for infrastructure development purposes is causing land degradation, affecting bio-diversity, waterquality and causing increased vulnerabilities to Climate Variability and Change → Unsustainable land use practises causing land degradation, such as; uncontrolled vegetation clearance near streams, wetlands and foreshore burning, deforestation and denuding of virgin land or arable agricultural land → Degraded lands are not rehabilitated and increases the risk of further degradation, spread of invasive species, and pollution.
COASTAL RESOURCES
Goal | High Priority Capacity Building Actions |
Thematic area: Coastal Zone Management | • Development of an integrated coastal resource management framework to counter fragmentation, duplication, policy gaps and conflicting mandates within coastal areas related to the management of limited resources in coastal areas and the management of human activities in coastal and adjoining areas (1.1.1) |
Thematic area: Coastal vulnerabilities | • Develop a coordinated programme and technical capacity to carry out vulnerability and adaptation assessments for coastal areas of all islands in the Cook Islands (1.2.1) |
Key Issue: → Inadequate local capacity to effectively manage coastal resources leaves the Cook Islands vulnerable to the risks of loss of ecosystem services, extreme events and sea level rise.
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Goal | High Priority Capacity Building Actions |
Goal: Resources are managed sustainably | • Incorporate the principles of sustainable resource management into the mandates and procedures of all institutions dealing with developmental planning and resource management, and work with the private sector to promote these principles (2.1.1) |
Key Issues: → Fragmented management of natural resources, legislation and policies governing resource use are sectoral, outdated or only apply to some islands. → Coordination and collaboration necessary to ensure that all resources are managed in a sustainable manner are missing.
WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Goal | High Priority Capacity Building Actions |
Theme: Water resources managed sustainably | • Support the Integrated Water Resource Management Project (IWRM), which aims to strengthen the enabling environment for water resource management and can be used as a pilot project for launching improved and integrated waster resource management to all islands in the Cook Islands (3.1.1) • Undertake a comprehensive inventory to determine the current state of water resources for all islands (3.1.2) |
Theme: Water supply and demand managed | • Reassess levels of current demand and supply of water resources on all islands including dynamics of supply (3.2.1) |
Theme: Water quality improved | • Implement a coordinated monitoring regime for water quality with all relevant agencies and a centralised testing facility for all environment testing, and develop a coordinated monitoring programme to guide water testing activities (3.3.1) • Strengthen capacity for conducting testing, monitoring and results analysis of drinking water quality amongst relevant agencies including the determination of agreed testing parameters, and the surveillance and monitoring of public water supplies and source waters (3.3.2) |
Key Issues: → Water resource management is fragmented, supply-driven and lacks coherent policies, strategies, legislation, regulation and monitoring. → Capacity of and demand on current water resources and water quality has not been fully assessed for all islands. → Water security is an issue with current sources vulnerable to climate change, salt water intrusion and extreme weather events.
WASTE MANAGEMENT
Goal | High Priority Capacity Building Actions |
Goal: Waste, pollution and sanitation are managed | Theme: Waste Management | • Clarify the roles and responsibilities of relevant waste management stakeholders in the review of the draft National Waste Strategy as an immediate priority, finalise and submit to Cabinet for endorsement and support for implementation |
Theme: Solid waste | • Encourage ‘at source’ separation to minimise solid waste and ensure the life of the landfill is extended • Encourage the reduction of solid waste to the minimum practicable level using the principles of refuse, reduce, reuse, and recycle and “polluter pays” |
Theme: Liquid waste | • Undertake a feasibility assessment to identify possible mechanisms to support the retrofit of septic tanks and sewage systems to comply with new Sewage Regulations |
Theme: Hazardous & dangerous waste | • Develop and strengthen local capacity to carry out a national assessment of hazardous and dangerous substances and waste in the Cook Islands (4.1.16) |
Theme: Marine pollution | • Review the Prevention of Marine Pollution Act 1998 with a view to incorporating amendments taking into consideration the roles of various government agencies in the management of marine pollution from ships and land based sources and appropriate legal and institutional frameworks • Revise the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan to include standards and protocols for the environmentally sound disposal of any waste oil recovered after a spill: to regulate the types of dispersants that can be used during any spill and to regulate clean up activities in sensitive and coastal foreshore areas |
Key Issues: → Management of waste is haphazard and piecemeal. → Legislation for solid waste management are inadequate and there are limited resources and inadequate sites for disposal. → There is poor management of sewage and agricultural liquid waste. → Capacity, regulatory frameworks, policies and institutional arrangements to move and manage hazardous and dangerous substances are limited. → There is limited capacity to deal with oil or pollutant spills in the marine environment.
INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENT MANAGEMENT
Goal | High Priority Capacity Building Actions |
Goal 1: Integration of environment and economic policies into national planning and development processes. | • As part of a National Monitoring and Evaluation Process, undertake the preparation of National State of the Environment Reports on a regular basis as a legal requirement by responsible ministries and departments, for monitoring of environment implementation and health. • Environment information and data, including State of the Environment Reports, should be promoted and made available to policy makers and planners, and used to lobby support for the integration and implementation of environment management activities within relevant ministries and agencies |
Key Issues: → Cook Islands lacks institutional structures and support mechanism to collaborate, monitor and enforce national economic and development plans and develop new legislation and regulations in a timely manner. → Environment protection and environment development issues are not accorded a high degree of priority in current political setting.
EDUCATION AND AWARENESS
Goal | High Priority Capacity Building Actions |
Goal: Waste, pollution and sanitation are managed | Theme: Waste Management | • Clarify the roles and responsibilities of relevant waste management stakeholders in the review of the draft National Waste Strategy as an immediate priority, finalise and submit to Cabinet for endorsement and support for implementation |
Theme: Solid waste | • Encourage ‘at source’ separation to minimise solid waste and ensure the life of the landfill is extended • Encourage the reduction of solid waste to the minimum practicable level using the principles of refuse, reduce, reuse, and recycle and “polluter pays” |
Theme: Liquid waste | • Undertake a feasibility assessment to identify possible mechanisms to support the retrofit of septic tanks and sewage systems to comply with new Sewage Regulations |
Theme: Hazardous & dangerous waste | • Develop and strengthen local capacity to carry out a national assessment of hazardous and dangerous substances and waste in the Cook Islands (4.1.16) |
Theme: Marine pollution | • Review the Prevention of Marine Pollution Act 1998 with a view to incorporating amendments taking into consideration the roles of various government agencies in the management of marine pollution from ships and land based sources and appropriate legal and institutional frameworks • Revise the National Oil Spill Contingency Plan to include standards and protocols for the environmentally sound disposal of any waste oil recovered after a spill: to regulate the types of dispersants that can be used during any spill and to regulate clean up activities in sensitive and coastal foreshore areas |
Key Issues:
Environment education and awareness programmes are produced on an ad hoc basis with little collaboration and coordination of activities
Resources and capacity to support education and awareness and media programmes are limited, especially in the Outer islands.
Lack of simplicity and languages used in technical environment reporting are major constraints.
INFORMATION MANAGEMENT
| Goal | High Priority Capacity Building Actions |
Goal 1: Environment information is managed and disseminated effectively | Theme: Information Management | • Undertake an assessment of available data to determine data gaps and information needs for environment management including natural resources, ecosystems and sustainable land management (7.1.1) |
Theme: Traditional knowledge & practices | • Develop national policies for maintaining the use and value of traditional knowledge and practices related to the environment and natural resources |
Theme: Information exchange | • Review current databases to identify opportunities and synergies for networking and information exchange |
Key Issues:
A lack of quality environment, socio-economic and spatial information, including on patterns of natural resources, land resource characteristics, population dynamics, resource demands and risks contributes to inconsistent and poorly founded decision-making.
Poor management of traditional knowledge and practises (TKP) related to environment management in the Cook Islands. Programmes to record traditional knowledge have been inconsistent and ad hoc.
Poor policies and legislative frameworks in place to protect TKPs and the rights of the holders of such knowledge.
Communications and data sharing mechanisms are limited hindering the effective dissemination of data and information.
Sharing of available data is constrained as sectoral agencies occasionally tend to withhold data and information necessary for environment planning and decision making.
MULTILATERAL ENVIRONMENT AGREEMENTS (MEA’s)
| Goal | High Priority Capacity Building Actions |
Goal 1: Cook Islands obligations to MEA’s are met. | | Theme: Implementation | • Promote and improve the awareness of politicians, decision makers and Government ministries of MEAs, that the Cook Islands are a signatory to, the environment issues they are address, and how this affects the Cook Islands in a local context. • Clearly define the responsibilities of all relevant Government agencies with roles under the UN Conventions, ensure these agencies are properly mandated with these responsibilities at the highest level and allocated appropriate resources to achieve this mandate and deliver MEA programmes. |
Theme: Reporting | • Strengthen national reporting capacity and evaluation processes, including establish a Clearing House Mechanism in line with existing structures for the collation and dissemination of Conventions-related information to reduce the efforts required to produce national reports to the UN Conventions. |
Key Issues:
There is growing concern about our ability to meet commitments and reporting requirements to these international conventions.
There is a need to ensure that those with national responsibilities under the UN Conventions are properly mandated with these responsibilities and this should translate into the allocation of appropriate resources to achieve these mandates.
FINANCIAL RESOURCES
Goal | High Priority Capacity Building Actions |
Theme: External donor funding | • Undertake training of planning officers and stakeholders in identification of environment funding opportunities, proposal writing and project management. |
Theme: National funding | • Improve knowledge and understanding, especially of budget decision makers, of donor funding mechanisms and expenditure limitations to highlight the need for national implementation and funding |
Key Issues:
The Cook Islands is highly reliant on external donor funding for operational support of environment projects as local Government funds and resources are insufficient.
Many government departments, NGOs and community groups do not have the experience and skills to aggressively pursue external funding options and meeting criteria for funding, including the local component of the GEF Small Grants Programme.
Limited levels of awareness and political support for environment management have played a role in determining national funding priorities in comparison to other national agendas.
A. Introduction
1.1 Cook Islands – National context and sustainable development challenges.
Located in the Pacific Ocean, South-East of Samoa and South-West of Tahiti (see Map in Annex 1), the Cook Islands is a self governing nation in Free Association with New Zealand with a population of 19,569 (2006) There is a distinct geographical divide between the islands with those in the Northern Group comprising of atolls and sand cays while those in the Southern Group comprising volcanic islands and makatea. Cook Islanders are ethnically Maori Polynesians and are custodians over a total land area of 240 sq km and an oceanic Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of 1.8 million sq km.
While the country enjoys pleasant tropical conditions (daily temperatures between 21-28°C and average rainfall of 2,000mm per year), its people and biodiversity continue to be very vulnerable to the disastrous effects of tropical cyclones and the impacts of Climate Variability and Climate Change. The nation is governed by a Parliament of 24 elected members, is a member of the Commonwealth with the Queen of England as its Head of State, and traditional leaders also play an important role in guiding decision making on national issues through the establishment and functions of the House of Ariki and Te Koutu Nui.
Cook Islands is performing relatively well compared to other Pacific Island Countries with respect to a range of key socio-economic indicators, as documented in the country’s recent MDG Report (2005). Economically the country has been experiencing good annual growth rate of 2.5% with a rising per capita GDP and a steady growth in the tourism, pearl, finance and fishing sectors, driven mainly by the private sector. Demographic statistics show that over the past years many Cook Islanders, particularly those in the outer islands, have migrated overseas, mainly to New Zealand. This has resulted in a situation where for every resident citizen there are now four Cook Islanders living abroad. Unemployment is also more prevalent in the outer islands requiring special attention from the national government. Ironically labour shortages experienced in some of the sectors particularly tourism and fisheries has brought about the need to recruit foreign workers. A situation that calls for increased investment in training and human resource development.
On many fronts, the people, biodiversity and economy of Cook Islands remain very vulnerable to a host of external factors that pose many challenges for the country. These challenges are articulated succinctly in the Cook Islands NSDP (2007-2010). The performance of the national economy is subject to fluctuations influenced mainly by changes in the global economy. Of particular importance is the need to keep abreast with changing demands for domestically produced goods and services. There is the ongoing threat of natural disasters especially cyclones that have the potential to inflict severe losses to the economy, biodiversity and peoples lives. Rising incidences of life-style and communicable diseases have been recorded and correlate positively with changing dietary patterns and lifestyles. Increase in trade with the global economy brings with it new challenges such as the need to prevent and control invasive species and the need to ensure access to benefit sharing from the use of biodiversity. The impressive growth in the tourism industry is putting pressure on land and marine habitats and requiring increased efforts at undertaking impact assessments and adopting practices and technologies that can give rise to sustainable use of land and marine resources and minimization of externalities. Increasing commercial activities and disposable incomes of families is giving rise to higher levels of consumption and waste generation with the threat of pollution levels affecting the natural environment and human health if left unchecked.
1.2 National Sustainable Development and Environment Management Agenda
The Cook Islands National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP) 2007-2010 and the National Environment Strategic Action Framework (NESAF) 2005-2009 are the main frameworks intended to guide national programmes and initiatives on sustainable development and environment management. The NSDP is being coordinated by the Office of the Prime Minister while implementation of the NESAF is coordinated by National Environment Service and is up for review in 2008. The NSDP has four Strategic Outcomes and eight Strategic Goals. Actions within the scope of this NCSA Action Plan will be contributing to the achievement of the NSDP Strategic Goals and the four Goals of the NESAF. A diagrammatic presentation of the framework of cascading and inter-linked national strategies and plans relating to environment management and sustainable development are presented in Diagram 1 below:
Diagram 1:Framework of national strategies and plans relating to environment management and sustainable development.
National Capacity Development Action Plan
1.3 Commitment to Global and Regional Environment Agendas on Climate Change, Conservation of Biological Diversity and Combating Land Degradation.
Despite its limited resources and capacity the Cook Islands continues to find ways to actively participate in and fulfil its commitments to global and regional environment agendas in the areas of Climate Change, Conservation of Biological Diversity and the Combating of Land Degradation. The NCSA Thematic Assessments have found that there are still gaps in implementation brought about by a host of ‘root causes’ mainly capacity needs at the systemic, institutional and individual levels across a wide range of stakeholders. Past and current efforts have been aimed at addressing national needs, which when achieved, can give rise to fulfilling regional and global commitments. At the same time guidelines and obligations found in international and regional conventions and strategies etc have been used to guide planning and implementation at the national level. The diagram below presents the global and regional environment management agendas that Cook Islands has committed to and is using to guide its program and initiatives.
Diagram 2: Global and regional environment agendas that Cook Islands are committed to and are using to guide its national programs and initiatives.
B. The National Capacity Self Assessment Project (NCSA)
2.1 Background
The Cook Islands, like many developing countries, face increasing challenges in managing its environment and addressing global and national environment agendas and objectives. Recognising the need for support and collective action for effective environment management, the Cook Islands became a Party to three important Multi-lateral Environment Agreements (MEAs) namely the United Nations Conventions on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Conservation of Biodiversity (UNCBD) and Combating of Desertification – or Land Degradation (UNCCD).
On ratifying each of the three Conventions, the Cook Islands are committed to undertaking a range of activities and programmes including, inter-alia; establishing national policies and programmes, raising awareness, conducting research, strengthening enforcement measures, implementing actions, all aimed at improving national environment management and contributing to improving the global environment.
Acknowledging the limited capacity and resources of the Cook Islands to meet the obligations and commitments under the three MEAs, the National Environment Service (NES) utilised the Global Environment Facility (GEF) fund to undertake the National Capacity Self Assessment (NCSA) project. This specific capacity building assistance is provided through the sub-regional country office of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Samoa.
2.2 Purpose
The purpose of the NCSA project funded by GEF is to enable developing countries like the Cook Islands to:
Review its capacity needs to address priority national and global environment issues in relation to Biodiversity, Climate Change and Land Degradation.
Determine what actions are needed to strengthen management of these issues.
Prepare a national capacity development strategy and plan of actions.
The NCSA project is considered to be a strategic implementation tool for effective and efficient environment management in the Cook Islands.
2.3 The Approach
The approach taken by the Cook Islands in implementing the NCSA project followed closely that which was recommended in the NCSA Guide (UNITAR) which included the following main stages:
Inception Report
Stock-take and gap analysis
Thematic assessments (identify causes of gaps, capacity needs and capacity development actions within the scope of each of the three Conventions)
Cross-cutting assessment (identification of cross-cutting issues and potentials for synergies)
Development of a Final Report and a Capacity Development Action Plan
2.4 Stakeholder Participation
The breadth and depth of baseline information and analysis produced by the NCSA Project has been the result of extensive consultation with and participation by many stakeholders throughout the country as well as abroad. Membership on the Thematic Working Group (TWG) ensured representation from key government agencies and NGOs.
Links with regional stakeholders was made possible through the Pacific Regional Support Mechanism for the NCSA, coordinated by SPREP and international help was obtained through the NCSA Global Support Programme overseen by UNDP and UNEP and based in New York. The need to consult stakeholders posed a special challenge for NCSA facilitators, members of the Thematic Working Groups, consultants and staff of the NES mainly because people in the Cook Islands are now experiencing ‘consultation fatigue’ after having been consulted numerous times over the past on environment issues. Cognizant of this situation, a strategic consultation approach was taken which included; i) Literature review to capture stakeholder feedback on issues during past consultations, and ii) Focused group consultation sessions targeting gaps and emerging issues.
As an example of the extent of consultations carried out by the NCSA Project, the Stock-taking exercise alone included 26 key stakeholders and 67 experts and extended to two outer islands. A list of stakeholders consulted and literature used throughout the assessment process are attached (refer to Appendix 4).
2.5 NCSA Project Outputs
The main NCSA Project Outputs expected of countries include:
i). A Stocktake Report identifying previous and current activities relating to capacity building (such as enabling activities) for each of the three sectors. ii). An account (report) of the process by which the NCSA was prepared, including stakeholder participation. iii). A description (inventory) of capacity building needs in the three sectors with prioritization to the extent possible, and other related capacity needs. iv). An identification of cross cutting issues and synergies v). A plan of action to meet prioritized needs and a mechanism for monitoring and evaluating progress made in meeting those needs.
A summary of Benefits of the NCSA project to the Cook Islands and Lessons Learnt can be found in Appendix 3.
PART II Capacity Development Action Plan
The purpose of the Capacity Development Action Plan is to:
1). Enable national stakeholders to take ownership of and implement capacity development actions aimed at achieving targeted capacity outputs that in turn will lead to the achievement of environment outcomes and goals, which will also contribute to the achievement of Cook Islands National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP) Goals (refer to Appendix 2) as well as the achievement of Cook Islands obligations under the UNCBD, UNFCCC and UNCCD.
2). Enable the national government and agencies responsible for achieving NSDP and National Environment Strategic Action Framework (NESAF) Goals (refer to Appendix 2 for Summary of NESAF Goals) to identify capacity development actions necessary to be taken to ensure the NSDP goals are achieved and seek ways and means to support these actions.
3). Provide capacity development targets and indicators so that progress with future capacity development work can be monitored and evaluated.
4). Enable donor partners as well as regional and international organizations to be aware of the capacity development actions needed to be taken by the Government and the People of the Cook Islands with the intent to seek ways to support the actions identified.
Capacity Development Action Plan Matrix – A tool for implementation, monitoring and evaluation
The Capacity Development Action Plans are presented in Matrices similar to that outlined in a typical Logical Framework Matrix. Capacity Development Actions, once successfully implemented can contribute to the achievement of Capacity Outputs, which in turn can contribute to the achievement of Environment Outcomes and Environment Goals. Performance Indicators and their Means of Verification are used only at the level of Capacity Outputs.
Actions proposed in the NCSA Thematic Assessment Report and Cross Cutting Assessment Report have been edited, merged in some cases and rearranged into the Log Frame Matrix format. Given the number of Capacity Development Actions proposed in total from both these reports, prioritisation was undertaken to identify priority actions. The criteria used by working groups for prioritising the timing of implementation include:
1). Importance of issue
2). Urgency of issue (severity and extent of environment impact if nothing is done)
3). Actionability - Ability of the action to be implemented
4). Consistent with the National Sustainable Development Plan and Millennium Development Goals
5). Enhances community participation and local capacity for environment management
Those actions identified as priority are intended to be linked to the timeframe of the NESAF 2010-2015 and the Medium Term Budgeting Framework and implemented over a 3-6 year timeframe. The remaining actions have been compiled at the end of each matrix and highlight actions that are of lower priority or for implementation in the longer term (6 years and beyond).
Performance Indicators and Means of Verification
Each matrix has performance indicators and means of verification identified to measure progress towards building capacity. Future reports and matrices will benefit from the outcomes of the CDAP in terms of better data collection and information management to support the development of better environment and capacity indicators.
The Log Frame Matrices are divided into four sections – Biodiversity, Climate Change, Land Degradation and Cross Cutting issues. The environment goals and sub thematic areas covered are listed below;
Biodiversity
1. Integrating and Institutionalising biodiversity
2. Effective conservation of Cook Islands species, ecosystems and natural areas
3. Cook Islands biodiversity is adequately protected from invasive species
4. Cook Islands biodiversity is adequately protected through biosafety measures
5. Cook Islanders enjoy equitable sharing of benefits from access to biological resources
6. Improved biodiversity protection and management through better information management & exchange
Climate Change
1. Climate Change Integrated and Institutionalised in the Cook Islands
2. People of the Cook Islands adapting to the effects of climate change Adaptation
Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment and Implementation
Research and Systematic Observation – (meteorological, hydrological and climatological) Disaster Risk Management
3. Cook Islands contributing to mitigation of Green House Gas emissions and Climate Change GHG Inventories
Mitigating GHGs from Transport, Land Use and Waste
Renewable Energy
Energy Efficiency
Clean Development Mechanisms
4. Cook Islands climate change information is effectively managed and exchanged
5. People of the Cook Islands are aware and educated on Climate Change
6. Appropriate technology transfer to support climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts
7. Ozone depleting substances are phased out of the Cook Islands
Land Degradation
1. People of the Cook Islands implementing sustainable land management practises mitigating land degradation - Development -Land Use Practises -Rehabilitation of Degraded Land
2. Land degradation and Sustainable Land Management mainstreamed into national planning processes
3. People of the Cook Islands accessing information and technical capacities for land degradation
Cross Cutting Issues
1. Coastal resources in the Cook Islands are managed in an integrated manner -Unknown -Coastal Vulnerabilities
2. Resource Management
3. People of the Cook Islands practising sustainable and integrated water resource management
Water Resource Management
Water Demand and Supply
Water Quality
4. Waste, Sanitation and Pollution in the Cook Islands are being managed
CROSS CUTTING CAPACITY ISSUES
5. Environment is managed in an integrated manner by multiple stakeholders
6. People of the Cook Islands are educated and aware of environment issues
7. Environment information is managed and disseminated effectively
- Information Management
- Traditional Knowledge and Practises
-Information Exchange
8. People of the Cook Islands are meeting our obligations to Multilateral Environment Agreements
- MEA Implementation
-MEA Reporting
-MEA Negotiations
9. Cook Islands accessing financial resources to support implementation of environment management activities
-External Donor Funding
- National Funding
Biological Diversity – Capacity Development Action Plan Summary
ENVIRONMENT GOAL 1: Biodiversity integrated and institutionalised
ENVIRONMENT GOAL 2: Effective Conservation of Cook Islands Species, Ecosystems and Natural Areas.
ENVIRONMENT GOAL 3 : Cook Islands biodiversity is adequately protected from invasive species
ENVIRONMENT GOAL 4: Cook Islands biodiversity are adequately protected through biosafety measures
ENVIRONMENT GOAL 5: Cook Islanders enjoy equitable sharing of benefits from access to biological resources
ENVIRONMENT GOAL 6: Improved biodiversity protection and management through better Information Management & Exchange
Climate Change – Capacity Development Action Plan Summary
ENVIRONMENT GOAL 1: Climate Change Integrated and Institutionalised in the Cook Islands
ENVIRONMENT GOAL 2: People of the Cook Islands adapting to the effects of climate change
Environment Outcome |
1.1 | Improved adaptation and mitigation actions as a result of an improved enabling environment. |
Capacity Development Output | Performance Indicator(s) | Means of Verification |
1.1a | National government agencies and stakeholders able to develop policies and strategies to guide actions related to Climate Change, supported by adequate institutional arrangements and strengthening | • National Climate Change Policy and Programme developed and being implemented • Institutional arrangements to support implementation of national climate change programmes are identified and adjusted accordingly | • National Climate Change policy • National Climate Change Programme |
Priority Capacity Development Actions | Lead Agency | Partner Agencies |
1.1.1 | Develop and implement a National Climate Change Policy, Programme, and Strategy and Action Plan to address risks of climate change to the environment, economy and people of the Cook Islands. | OPM | NCCCT, NES, MFEM |
1.1.2 | Incorporate climate change into the National Development Plans and discuss proposed actions at all levels of planning and forums. | OPM | NCCCT, NES |
1.1.3 | Improve knowledge and understanding, especially of budget decision makers, on donor funding mechanisms, guidelines and processes to access other funding for Climate Change-related programmes with the help of donor and implementing agencies | MFEM | AMD, NES, MFAI |
1.1.4 | Improve knowledge and understanding, especially of budget decision makers, of the priorities, costs and benefits of adaptation and energy planning decisions. | MFEM | OPM, HOMs |
1.1.5 | Strengthen sectoral capacity to understand and incorporate climate change considerations into annual planning processes including through the development of climate change personnel within key ministries. | NCCCT | NES, MET, EMCI |
1.1.6 | Identify and mandate a host institution for climate change and appoint a full time National Climate Change Coordinator to coordinate and mainstream climate change activities and enhance continuity of capacity. | NCCCT | |
1.1.7 | Identify focal points in key government ministries, NGOs, outer islands, civil society, for Climate Change as well as mechanisms for communication and information sharing such as the NCCCT | OPM | CTM |
1.1.8 | Strengthen capacity to integrate climate change and disaster management activities and expand focus from just being donor or project driven. | OPM | NES, NCCCT |
1.1.9 | Review Meteorology Service and Emergency Management Cook Islands including institutional arrangements, organisational structure, functions and duties in the context of continuous research and systematic observation and climate risk management. | PSC | MET, EMCI |
1.1.10 | Promote national priorities for climate change research, support the work being done in country and consider the possibility for setting up a trust to facilitate national research by nationals | OPM - Research | CSO, USP, NHRD |
Other Long Term Actions |
• Explore and develop private sector or Government led risk sharing and transfer mechanism for climate impacts, such as insurance. • Activate partnerships and resource sharing opportunities e.g. for a national centralised laboratory under the national research framework |
ENVIRONMENT GOAL 3: Cook Islands contributing to mitigation of Greenhouse Gas emissions and Climate Change
Thematic Area: GHG Inventories |
Environment Outcome |
3.1 | Better planning of mitigation measures as a result of the establishment of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Inventories |
Capacity Development Output | Performance Indicator(s) | Means of Verification |
3.1a | Capacity and support to plan and carry out GHG Inventories annually, and disseminate information to key stakeholders, including decision-/policy makers | • Number of nationals trained to conduct GHG Inventories • Institutional arrangements for annual GHG inventory process in place and effective by end of 2009 • GHG database established and maintained • Results of Annual GHG Inventory analysed and disseminated to stakeholders | • Training workshops reports and evaluations • Annual GHG Inventory Reports produced • GHG database |
Priority Capacity Development Actions | Lead Agency | Partner Agencies |
3.1.1 | Develop capacity and mechanisms to undertake annual GHG Inventories and improve data quality and collection, including establishing institutional arrangements with key agencies and private sector, with resulting information mainstreamed into statistical bulletins, energy development plans and disseminated to stakeholders. | MOTE – Energy | NES, MFEM - Statistics, OPM |
3.1.2 | Establish an easy to use GHG inventory database to record annual GHG activity data, (e.g. energy use, livestock numbers, waste etc) | MFEM -Statistics | MOTE – Energy, NES, MOA, Private Sector, TAU |
Other Long Term Actions |
• Develop and implement legislation and or policies as appropriate to mandate key agencies to supply and collect data and undertake annual GHG Inventories • Raise awareness of GHG emission trends in the Cook Islands and ways to reduce emissions, as well as encourage locally appropriate alternatives to fossil fuel use • Ensure training is available for GHG guideline requirements, or identify guidelines better suited to the Cook Islands situation |
Thematic Area: Mitigating GHGs from Transport, Land Use and Waste |
Environment Outcome |
3.2 | Mitigation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from land use and waste |
Capacity Development Output | Performance Indicator(s) | Means of Verification |
3.2a | National agencies and staff have the capacity to develop and implement mitigation measures for sources of GHG emissions | • Guidelines on locally appropriate emissions mitigation measures developed and disseminated by 2010 • Increased number of emissions mitigation measures implemented effectively by 2012, compared with baseline year of 2008 | • Guidelines • Annual GHG Inventory reports |
Priority Capacity Development Actions | Lead Agency | Partner Agencies |
3.2.1 | Develop overarching National Policy and legislation to reduce GHG emissions in the Cook Islands through the development and implementation of Renewable Energy, Vehicle Emissions and Importation Standards, Energy Efficiency Standards, Economic Incentives to reduce emissions and the integration of locally appropriate sustainable fuels. | OPM / MOTE | NES, Private Sector |
3.2.2 | Review, endorse and implement National Waste Strategy and prioritised subcomponents, to ensure special consideration of emissions reductions options and to minimise residual solid waste going to the landfill | MOIP | NES, CSO, Private Sector |
3.2.3 | Assess and develop guideline recommendations on practical mitigation actions to reduce GHG emissions including options for improving transport and energy related systems with emissions reductions technology | MOTE – Energy | NES, NCCCT |
3.2.4 | Promote and explore options for reducing transport emissions including through development of policies and legislation of standards for vehicle importation in consultation with the private sector, emissions testing | MOTE | OPM, Private Sector, Customs – MFEM |
3.2.5 | Incorporate training of technicians for emissions testing, and maintenance of alternative and energy fuel efficient vehicles into any emissions reduction implementation strategy | HRD | Private Sector |
3.2.6 | Develop a road users campaign to promote GHG reducing tips such as carpooling and the cost saving benefits | CSO | MOTE, Road Safety Council, Police |
3.2.7 | Strengthen enforcement of burning bans and other waste regulations under public health act including through the provision and promotion of safer or more efficient alternatives | MOH | NES, CSO, MOIP |
3.2.8 | Explore and promote locally appropriate alternatives to artificial fertilizers to reduce nitrous oxide emissions | MOA | NES, MOH, CSO, Private Sector |
Other Long Term Actions |
• Assess the options and practicality of introducing criteria or policy on importation practises and excess packaging in order to reduce waste before it comes in-country • Ensure roads are well maintained to allow for fuel efficient driving conditions • Implement pilot projects to trial biofuels production, use and suitability to the Cook Islands |
Thematic Area: Renewable Energy |
Environment Outcome |
3.3 | Increased use of Renewable Energy Technologies throughout the country through improved support from government and increased involvement of all stakeholders and resulting in a decline in reliance of fossil fuels especially in remote locations |
Capacity Development Output | Performance Indicator(s) | Means of Verification |
3.3a | Greater capacity to support renewable energy initiatives and programs at both the National and Island Government level with consumers nationwide attracted to adopting and maintaining RE technologies. | • Government funding to support RE increased by at least 50% by 2012, • New RE initiatives established and operational throughout the country by 2012, • Incentives regime for consumers operational by 2010 • Importation figures, household surveys, renewable energy installations | • Survey report on use of Renewable Energy in Cook Islands • PIGGAREP reports • Importation records |
Priority Capacity Development Actions | Lead Agency | Partner Agencies |
3.3.1 | Reduce the reliance on high GHG based fossil fuel by identifying and adopting technically feasible and financial viable alternative energy sources for all islands, including by undertaking cost-benefit analysis of RE implementation and technologies | MOTE – Energy | OPM, Private Sector, NES, MOIP, Aid, OMIA, MFEM |
3.3.2 | Develop and implement a Renewable Energy Development Plan for Rarotonga as a priority to reduce petroleum imports and control electricity demand growth on Rarotonga. | OPM | MFEM, Energy Committee, MOTE – Energy |
3.3.3 | Obtain political and financial commitment from Government for renewable energy adoption and implementation as part of an overall government energy strategy to reduce fossil fuels | MFEM | Int. Aff, OPM, MOTE – Energy |
3.3.4 | Investigate the potential for economic incentives to encourage use of renewable energy technology. | MOTE – Energy | OPM, MFEM, Private Sector, TAU |
3.3.5 | Develop strategies and programs that implement the Energy policy including the development and implementation of standards and policies for Renewable Energy. | MOTE – Energy | TAU |
3.3.6 | Build and develop the capacity of Te Aponga Uira (for Rarotonga) and Outer Islands to design, install, operate and maintain renewable energy systems. | MOTE – Energy | TAU |
3.3.7 | Review Energy Division including organisational structure, functions and duties in the context of Renewable Energy implementation and strengthen capacity to develop, implement and monitor renewable energy activities | PSC | MOTE – Energy, AMD |
3.3.8 | Promote the benefits of alternative technologies for renewable energy and energy efficiency at all levels and all scales through education and awareness, targeting decision makers and affected local communities, through the use of pilot projects and incentives for consumers e.g. caps rebate system. | CSO | MOTE – Energy |
3.3.9 | Investigate the potential for regional bulk buying of renewable energy technology | MFEM | TAU, MOTE – Energy, Private Sector |
Other Long Term Actions |
• Revisit past feasibility assessment studies for integrating Renewable Energy into current energy system for their present and future viability and improve where necessary. • Improve forward planning capacity of local energy providers in a proactive approach to prevent adoption of policies based on reactive or crisis management, which locks limited capital and capacity into fossil fuel energy and technology. • Develop capacity for renewable energy training needs locally - training modules focusing on renewable energy should be made available for integration into technical training programs for electricians and plumbers. • Implement a local training and accreditation scheme for renewable energy drawing on international expertise. • Promote local research to investigate the types of bio-fuels suitable to our climate, availability of resources its economic and environment viability with consideration of lessons learnt from analogous countries. |
Thematic Area: Energy Efficiency |
Environment Outcome |
3.4 | Reduction in energy consumption and emissions through use of energy efficient practices and technologies. |
Capacity Development Output | Performance Indicator(s) | Means of Verification |
3.4a | Households, organizations and businesses are able to adopt practices and technologies that are energy efficient. | Importation figures, household surveys, renewable energy installations, level of overall financial support for RE and the usage of tax incentives. | • Survey report on use of Renewable Energy in Cook Islands • Energy reports |
Priority Capacity Development Actions | Lead Agency | Partner Agencies |
3.4.1 | Create an enabling environment for energy efficiency through the development and implementation of policies and legislation for importation, design, construction, installation, and use of appliances and technologies to restrict or ban (low energy efficiency products) | OPM | MFAI, MOTE – Energy, Customs |
3.4.2 | Decrease per capita energy consumption by increasing efficiency in energy use through the adoption of new technologies and energy conservation practices. | CSO | MOTE – Energy, TAU, Private Sector |
3.4.3 | Develop strategies and programmes that implement the Energy policy including the development and implementation of standards and policies for Energy Efficiency and an Energy Conservation Act. | MOTE | OPM, TAU, MFEM |
3.4.4 | Investigate the potential for economic incentives to promote energy efficient technologies and practises | Private Sector | MFEM, OPM, TAU |
3.4.5 | Introduce mechanisms to monitor consumption of energy and raise awareness and educate consumers on energy efficiency options. | MOTE – Energy | Private Sector, CSO, MMR |
3.4.6 | Strengthen demand side management – regulate the pattern of energy usage and provide incentives to reduce energy use. | MOTE – Energy | TAU, CSO |
3.4.7 | Promote the benefits of alternative technologies for renewable energy and energy efficiency at all levels and all scales, in the form of pilot projects and incentives for consumers. | CSO | MOTE – Energy |
Other Long Term Actions |
• Develop a programme for Energy Auditing including training, in order to implement practical recommendations for cost saving measures (possibly through the energy permitting system) • Develop capacity for training in energy efficiency locally -training modules focusing on energy efficiency which could be integrated into technical training programs for electricians and plumbers. • Implement a local training and accreditation scheme for energy efficiency drawing on international expertise. • Review Energy Division including organisational structure, functions and duties in the context of Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency implementation and develop a programme to increase capacity. • Investigate the potential for regional bulk buying energy efficiency technology. |
Thematic Area: Clean Development Mechanisms |
Other Long Term Actions |
• Increase understanding and awareness of Clean Development Mechanisms and its implications for the Cook Islands, and explore opportunities for pilot/demonstration projects to show cost benefits of reducing transport emissions • Promote specific criteria through AOSIS at international level that will assist small islands to access CDM specifically for renewable energy and energy efficiency. • Identify and mandate a Designated National Authority to explore the options of CDM and its appropriateness to the Cook Islands. • Explore CDM and other opportunities for pilot/demonstration projects to show cost benefits of reducing emissions. |
Environment Outcome |
4.1 | Accurate and continuous data with the support of appropriate information management systems enables National government agencies and stakeholders to adapt to and mitigate climate change. |
Capacity Development Output | Performance Indicator(s) | Means of Verification |
4.1a | National government agencies and stakeholders are able to manage climate change data and information (including capacity to develop information management systems, undertake data collation and analysis, and use GIS), and to mobilize appropriate data dissemination to all levels of users | • Data sharing mechanisms regularly updated and utilised by multiple stakeholders at levels greater than baseline year of 2008 • Focal points for climate change data collection identified within key institutions and Ministries • Training programme climate change data collection, analysis and management developed and implemented | • Records of access numbers • NCCCT reports • Training reports |
Priority Capacity Development Actions | Lead Agency | Partner Agencies |
4.1.1 | Define responsibilities of relevant agencies and organisations with regards to generating and implementing climate change data collection and information management programmes and identify appropriate personnel within each organisation to take on this responsibility. | MET | NES, MOIP, MMR, MOH |
4.1.2 | Develop a programmatic approach to strengthening local capacities for management of climate change data and information, including training in database and inventories development, data collation and analysis, GIS, mobilizing information dissemination | MOIP | MOH, MMR, NES |
4.1.3 | Develop and strengthen mechanisms for data sharing within and between agencies, including existing tools such as the Pacific Environmental Information Network (PEIN), Population Geographic Information Systems (PopGIS) and EDF9 MapServer, and promote the need for web based accessibility of data and a Clearing House Mechanism for climate change data and information | MOIP | NES, MMR, MOH, MFEM – Statistics, MOA, Met. Serv. |
Other Long Term Actions |
• Draw on stocktakes under processes such as UNCCD National Reports, UNFCCC National Communications, the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, Environment Vulnerability Indices, Ozone Depleting Substances NCAP etc, to review current databases for upgrade and identify opportunities and synergies for networking and information exchange. • Establish and maintain a Clearing House Mechanism (and appropriate capacity) to collate, store, and disseminate climate change information including of past, current and on-going activities and research for stakeholders awareness and promoting linkages, supported through the process of National Communications. • Foster the importance of the Small Islands Developing States (SIDS) network for addressing issues both nationally and internationally. |
Environment Outcome |
5.1 | Integrated education and awareness programmes for climate change |
Capacity Development Output | Performance Indicator(s) | Means of Verification |
5.1a | Government and stakeholders have the capacity to create and deliver education and awareness programmes for climate change. | • Educational authorities have access to climate change technical advice and incorporating climate change in curricula • No of stakeholder representatives trained in climate change awareness • No of Publicity Campaign | • Educational texts and materials • Ministry of education reports • Awareness survey reports |
Priority Capacity Development Actions | Lead Agency | Partner Agencies |
5.1.1 | Develop a systematic approach to environment education awareness including regular specific climate change communications strategies and measures for different levels, including NGOs and community groups | NES | CSO, NGO, MOE |
5.1.2 | Strengthen partnership roles in strategy design and implementation. e.g. Live & Learn, the Green Maze, and interactive programmes such as Sandwatch, SPARCE, Te Kaveinga Ora | NES | NCCCT, CSO |
5.1.3 | Incorporate climate change into the formal education curriculum and provide resource materials and professional development to support teachers with this subject area | NES | MOE, CSO |
5.1.4 | Produce media and education packages featuring local climate change relevant information in a simplified bilingual format. | NES | CSO, MOTE, NCCCT |
5.1.5 | Need for ‘information brokers’ who are able to undertake the translation of scientific and technical information into simplified clear format/language | CROP agencies/ NES | English and CI Maori Language experts, Aronga Mana, CSO |
5.1.6 | Encourage schools to take part in environment monitoring e.g. beach, climate, water and assist NGOs and Government Departments | NES | MOE, MMR, CSO, MOA, MOH |
5.1.7 | Encourage regional tertiary organisations to undertake climate change research for the Cook Islands, working with local counterparts for practical capacity building and training | USP | NHRD, OPM |
5.1.8 | Undertake training for planners, developers and decision makers on how to incorporate climate change and disaster management considerations into infrastructure and development | OPM | NCCCT, MFEM |
Other Long Term Actions |
• Provide for the collation and ongoing documentation of local climate change relevant information, including traditional and local knowledge • Explore the use of innovative communications mechanisms such as local radio stations and Radio Network for dissemination climate information |
ENVIRONMENT GOAL 6: Appropriate technology transfer to support climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts |
Environment Outcome |
6.1 | Technology transfer, use and maintenance programmes are supported, funded and maintained. |
Capacity Development Output | Performance Indicator(s) | Means of Verification |
6.1a | Government agencies, private sector and community have identified technology needs and have the capacity to utilise and maintain appropriate technology to support climate change adaptation and mitigation | • Technology Needs Assessment completed • Deployment of at least one technology to support adaptation or mitigation per year | • Technology needs assessment report • Private sector report |
Priority Capacity Development Actions | Lead Agency | Partner Agencies |
6.1.1 | Undertake Technology Needs Assessment and Technology Transfer Project Design. | NES | MOTE, NCCCT |
6.1.2 | Ensure that sustainability concerns and local appropriateness of any technology transfer related project design is considered at the initial design and review stages | MOT E - Energy / TAU | NCCCT, NES, Private Sector, Community |
6.1.3 | Gather and disseminate lessons learnt in adoption and use of technology transferred to improve decision making regarding technology transferred | NES | NCCCT, NES, MOH |
Other Long Term Actions |
• Provide resources and training opportunities to develop local capacity in engineering, policy and technical areas. • Ensure technology transferred is labelled in English and have both instruction manuals and practical demonstration training. |
Thematic Area: Water Resource Management |
Environment Outcome |
3.1 | Improved quality and quantity of water resources in Cook Islands due to better management in an integrated and sustainable manner |
Capacity Development Output | Performance Indicator(s) | Means of Verification |
3.1a | Government and stakeholders have the capacity to manage water resources in all islands sustainably and in an integrated approach, based on accurate data of the status of resources, with robust supporting legislation and policies | • Carrying capacity of water supplies on all islands completed and analysed • Comprehensive inventory undertaken on all islands to assist with development of water policy initiatives • Water Policy completed and implemented • Recommendations of Water related legislation review implemented • Workable interagency plans and sharing of information • Island specific water resource management plans developed on all islands by 2010 | • Report on Water Resources • OPM – Water Policy • Legislation Review report |
Priority Capacity Development Actions | Lead Agency | Partner Agencies |
3.1.1 | Support the Integrated Water Resource Management Project (IWRM), which aims to strengthen the enabling environment for water resource management and can be used as a pilot project for launching improved and integrated waster resource management to all islands in the Cook Islands. | MOIP – Water Works | NES, MOH, IWRM team |
3.1.2 | Undertake a comprehensive inventory to determine the current state of water resources for all islands in the Cook Islands including all freshwater resources (surface and underground), water intakes, watersheds and water catchments to provide sound information with a view towards the formulation of plans, policies, programmes and projects to ensure that freshwater resources are available to facilitate the sustainable development of the country, and to serve as a basis for planning approvals and environment impact assessments. | MOIP/ Island Councils | OPM, OMIA, NES, MOH |
3.1.3 | Conduct a legislative review of various acts and regulations that regulate water resource, water supply or water quality management and implement appropriate recommendations to address key issues and promote integrated approaches and institutional structures to sustainable management of water resources and watersheds in the Cook Islands | Crown Law/OPM | MOIP, MFEM – Aid Management |
3.1.4 | Develop and implement policies for water governance as an immediate step towards an overarching policy for integrated water resource management, in collaboration with the IWRM project and EU Water Governance program | OPM | NES, MOH, MOIP, OMIA, MFEM – Aid Management |
3.1.5 | Develop Island specific water resource management plans for all island in the Cook Islands | MOIP/ Island Councils | IWRM team |
3.1.6 | Develop and strengthen local capacity for sustainable water resource management at the national, institutional and community levels, including capacity to monitor and enforce water resource policies | MOIP | NES, MOH, MMR |
3.1.7 | Centralise resources and establish a core technical group of water professionals/agencies that are directly responsible for water quality monitoring or health surveillance, that would collate data and prepare annual reports on water resources, including drinking water quality of various supplies (urban, rural and outer-island) and waterborne disease statistics | MOIP | MOH, MMR, NES, Island Councils |
3.1.8 | Develop strategies for attracting and maintaining local expertise in water resource management within agencies, including staff succession and counter-parting plans and ongoing capacity building and training programme | MOIP | NHRD, PSC, MFEM |