Environmental Stewardship Tool (EST)

WHY Use the EST?

The impact of program activities on the built and natural environment may be unnoticeable at first but could have long term impacts if not closely analyzed at the beginning. This tool was developed to strengthen CIMO’s environmental policies in all program activities and compliments other environmental impact assessment tools. The main objective is to ensure that the preservation of natural resources (such as forests, wild animals, water, soil etc.) is done in a sustainable manner alongside all activities involving the natural and built environment (such as shelter and infrastructure construction).

WHAT is the EST Design to do?

The Environmental Stewardship Tool (EST) is intended to enhance program quality and improve the accountability of humanitarian and development programming (namely in Food Security and Livelihoods, DRR, Education, Health, Shelter/Settlements and WASH sectors) to improve, rather than degrade the natural environment. The tool allows for rapid identification and registering the risk level of key environmental issues which could be experienced by natural and man made systems in the program activities. Furthermore, the EST provides a series of statements to answer when designing a program which can identify the amount of risk each action may have on the environment and on individuals and communities living in those program areas. To mitigate this risk and promote environmentally responsible and regenerative activities, there is also sector specific guidance presented in the EST.

WHEN is the EST used?

The tool should be used during the program design phase and prior to implementation of a project to inform stakeholders of both the risks associated with negative environmental impact along with the benefits of activities which could regenerate the natural environment. The tool can also be used during project implementation as part of continuous improvement for program quality and for monitoring, evaluation, accountability and learning purposes.

WHO uses the EST?

Project managers, coordinators, field officers, funding officers and technical advisers from CIMOs and partner organizations working on projects that may have environmental issues. This should be completed with those who have knowledge of the local context to form a program design team. The program design team may consist of but is not limited to agency/partner staff (mentioned above) along with government representatives, community members, or anyone else involved in the design/implementation of the program.