MINISTRY OF TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ENVIRONMENTAL & SOCIAL MANAGEMENT FRAMEWORK (ESMF) FOR TECHNOLOGY FOR JOBS (Tech4Jobs) Project ID no: P172571 Prepared by: Ministry of Telecom and Information Technology March 2020 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS Contents TABLE OF CONTENTS .............................................................................................................. 2 ACRONYMS ............................................................................................................................ 4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY............................................................................................................ 5 Legal Framework .......................................................................................................................... 5 Project description........................................................................................................................ 5 Capacity Building for PIA............................................................................................................... 6 Screening Process ......................................................................................................................... 6 Risk assessment and Potential Impacts of proposed subprojects ............................................... 6 Proposed Mitigation Measures .................................................................................................... 7 Environmental and Social Management Plan .............................................................................. 7 Environmental Monitoring ........................................................................................................... 8 Stakeholder Engagement.............................................................................................................. 8 CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................. 9 1.1 Background ............................................................................................................................. 9 1.2 Level of Environmental Work ................................................................................................ 9 1.3 Coordination with Environmental Quality Authority ....................................................... 9 1.4 Preparation and Use of this Framework .............................................................................. 10 1.5 Organization of the Framework........................................................................................... 10 CHAPTER TWO: THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK ..............................................................................11 2.1 Palestinian Legislation Relevant to the Implementation of the Tech4Jobs project ............ 11 2.2 Institutional Framework ....................................................................................................... 11 2.3 Environmental Legal Framework ......................................................................................... 11 2.3.1 The Palestinian Environmental Law .............................................................................. 11 2.3.2 The Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy (PEAP) ........................................... 11 2.4 World Bank Environmental and Social Framework/ESSs ..................................................... 12 CHAPTER THREE: THE TECH4JOBS PROJECT ............................................................................14 3.1 Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 14 CHAPTER FOUR: THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL RISK SCREENING PROCESS FOR SUB- PROJECTS ..............................................................................................................................17 4.1 Environmental and Social Screening in the Framework ..................................................... 17 4.2 Application of the Screening processes ............................................................................... 17 4.3 The Screening Process.......................................................................................................... 18 Step 1: Screening Of Sub-project Activities and Sites ................................................................ 18 Step 2: Assigning the Appropriate Environmental Risk classification ........................................ 18 Step 3: Carrying Out Environmental and Social Assessment ..................................................... 19 Step 4: Review and Approval of the Screening Activities ........................................................... 19 Step 5: Stakeholder engagement and Public Consultations...................................................... 19 2 Step 6: Environmental and Social Monitoring ............................................................................ 20 Step 7: Environmental and Social Monitoring Indicators ........................................................... 20 CHAPTER FIVE: STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ........................................................................21 5.1 Rationale for Consultation and Disclosure ........................................................................... 21 CHAPTER SIX: ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACTS .........................................................23 6.1 Purpose of the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) ................................. 23 6.2 Environmental and Social Impacts ...................................................................................... 23 6.3 Mitigation Measures ............................................................................................................ 24 6.4 Monitoring Plan .................................................................................................................... 25 6.5 Identification of potential adverse impacts of projects and mitigation measures ............. 25 CHAPTER SEVEN: INSTITUTIONAL SETUP FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MONITORING AND CAPACITY BUILDING REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................27 7.1 Responsibilities for Environmental and Social Monitoring .................................................. 27 7.2 Monitoring, evaluation and reporting ................................................................................. 27 7.4 Capacity Building and Environmental Trainings ................................................................... 27 ANNEXES...............................................................................................................................29 Annex 1: Environmental and Social Screening Form ..................................................... 30 Annex 2: Environmental and Social Checklist .......................................................................... 33 Annex 3: Environmental and Social Guidelines for Benefiting Firm/Individual Beneficiary .............................................................................................................................................. 34 Annex 4: Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) ................................................. 36 Annex 5: Content of E-Waste Management Plan ................................................................... 38 List of Tables Table 1: Component and sub-components and their direct beneficiaries ........................................ 14 Table 2: Key Environmental and Social Monitoring Indicators .................................................. 27 3 ACRONYMS CAE Child Abuse/Exploitation EHS Environment, Health and Safety EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EMCA Environmental Management Act - 1996 EQA Environmental Quality Authority ERP Emergency Response Plan ESF Environmental and Social Framework ESMF Environmental and Social Management Framework ESMP Environmental and Social Management Plan ESO Environmental and Social Officer ESSF Environmental and Social Screening Form ESSs Environmental and Social Standards GBV Gender-Based Violence GIIP Good International Industry Practice GRM Grievance Redress Mechanism IEE Initial Environmental Evaluation LMP Labor Management Procedures M&E Monitoring and Evaluation MTIT Ministry of Telecom and Information Technology MoH Ministry of Health OHS Occupational Health and Safety PA Palestinian Authority PEAP Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy PIA Project Implementing Agency PNA Palestinian National Authority SEA Sexual Exploitation and Abuse SEF Stakeholder Engagement Framework SEP Stakeholder Engagement Plan SHE Safety, Health & Environment Tech4Jobs Technology for Jobs SMEs Small and Medium Enterprises 4 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1. The ESMF is developed by Ministry of Telecommunications and Information Technology (MTIT) to manage risks under the Technology for Jobs Project (Tech4Jobs). The Palestinian Authority (PA) is considering selecting competitively private sector entity to act as Project Implementation Agency (PIA), who will be responsible for implementing the Tech4Jobs project on behalf of MTIT. Objectives of the Environmental and Social Management Framework 2. The Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) seeks to provide an effective environmental and social screening process for application in the Tech4Jobs subprojects. Specifically, the following are the objectives of the ESMF: • To ensure that all installation subprojects are screened for potential adverse environmental and social impacts and appropriate mitigation and monitoring measures, including cost estimates, are identified and implemented by environmental and social expert; • To support Project Implementation Agency (PIA) to carry out the environmental and social screening process as outlined in this Framework, including the implementation and monitoring of mitigation measures of all subprojects as necessary. Legal Framework 3. A number of legislations, policies and instruments are available to support environmental management and the Environmental Assessment process in Palestine. The Palestinian Environmental Law and other sectoral sections in other legislations are the key instruments that cover environmental management in all the sectors of development. The Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy (PEAP) prescribe the process, procedures and practices for conducting an Environmental Assessment reports. 4. However, the national legislation does not include procedures for screening smaller-scale investments for potential adverse environmental and social impacts. To close this gap between national legislation and the Bank’s ESF which requires that all investments proposed for Bank- financing are screened against the 10 Environmental and Social Standards (ESSs) for potential adverse environmental and social impacts and appropriate environmental instruments be prepared. Based on the screening results, this ESMF is being prepared including generic ESMP. Based on the screening results, the generic ESMP will be updated to sit-specific ESMP. Project description 5. The project will consist of four components tackling the supply side, demand side and internal linkages of the market. As a starting point, a list of preliminary activities that address the various market and system failures. Component 1 will focus on the supply side, seeking to improve the capabilities of IT service exporters by supporting: (i) both technological and managerial upgrading in firms, including supporting the role of women in leadership positions in the sector; (ii) firms in the sector to access basic infrastructure they need to operate in global technology markets. Component 2 will focus on increasing global demand and investments in the IT service exports market. This will be achieved by investing in: (i) R&D facilities which can provide access to technology and services to the entire sector; (ii) activities to promote the Palestinian market abroad and broker deals between international buyers, investors and Palestinian businesses. Component 3 will help strengthen coordination of the different players within the IT ecosystem and enable stakeholders to implement collective projects that help the 5 competitiveness of the sector as a whole. Component 4 will provide project management and monitoring (the PIA). Capacity Building for PIA 6. PIA should have Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) department or environmental and social expert. Therefore, there is a need to recruit environmental and social officer (ESO) to be included in Project Implementation Agency (PIA) if not available. The ESO will be involved in the implementation of the environmental screening process for subprojects and monitor the environmental and social requirements. The subproject that require screening are mainly related to component 2 and 3 of the Project. Selected PIA staffs and ESO are proposed to undergo training in environmental and social management systems and impact assessment, implementation of the environmental and social screening process outlined in this ESMF, e- waste management as part of capacity building. Screening Process 7. The environmental and social screening process described in chapter 4 outlines the institutional responsibilities for the implementation of each step (steps 1-7). In addition to the Environmental and Social Screening Form, an Environmental and Social Checklist will be prepared and availed to facilitate the identification of mitigation measures for subprojects. Main features of the checklists will include; a detailed description of the activities to be undertaken, potential negative effects (environmental and social concerns), mitigation measures to be undertaken and the organization/person responsible for each activity, and monitoring responsibilities, and cost estimates. Risk assessment and Potential Impacts of proposed subprojects 8. After concept stage of the Tech4Jobs project, the project component for funding rooftop solar panels, AC, and similar equipment was dropped from the project. The project current scope support under component 2.1 Seed grants to stimulate private investments in the IT service ecosystem, with expected increased number of IT equipment, and therefore increase of e-waste. The project will also allocate grants for IT infrastructures in component 2.3. The risks associated with these activities are generally short-term, temporary and reversible which can be reduced or eliminated by known mitigation measures. At this stage of the project it’s not clear whether PIA have record of in-house environmental and social management capacity or not. Based on this, the environmental risk classification is "moderate". . 9. The social risks associated with the project are considered moderate. The social risks are limited in nature and scale, and can be summarized as follows: (1) risks related to social exclusion or inequity in its various forms that would need to be mitigated through ensuring that project benefits, such as access to grants, and job opportunities, can be accessed and optimized for the most vulnerable and youth, including those from poor communities and women; (2) risks related to labor and working conditions for project, direct and contracted workers; (3) risk of exposure of youth, including vulnerable youth and women to sexual harassment or exploitation, or poor working conditions, indirectly, through project financial support for on- the-job training programs and salaries for new employees. An assessment of Gender Based Violence (GBV) was done and the risk is rated low. The project level GRM will include specific procedures for GBV including confidential reporting and ethical documentation of GBV cases. 10.The project will not result in any risks related to involuntary resettlement. Private sector firms seeking grants to establish new enterprises or subsidiaries will need to demonstrate adherence to willing-buyer willing-seller criteria to qualify. 6 Issue Likely Impact Mitigation Economic Help stabilize electricity • Ensure fair competition by ensuring equal impact and supply to benefiting opportunity livelihoods companies, thus • Apply SEF including: revitalizing businesses • Ensure access to information and transparency in decisions • Undertake public consultation and information dissemination • Establish and create awareness on grievance redress mechanism Social exclusion Could arise from fairness • Ensure fair competition by creating a level or inequity and equity in decision playing field making • Ensure access to information and transparency in decisions • Undertake public consultation and information dissemination • Establish and create awareness on grievance redress mechanism Labor and • Indiscriminate Human • Labor Management Procedures (LMP) was working Resources Policies and prepared to address the labor related issues conditions Procedures; • Indiscriminate Working Hours and Leave; • Indiscriminate Wages and Benefits; • Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunities; • Grievances; • Child Labor; • Forced labor. e-waste • Chemical • Prepare e-waste management plan. disposal contamination of soil • Dispose e-waste at approved waste and ground water from management sites using registered transport poor disposal of e- services and disposal site. waste. • Do not treat e-waste as domestic waste • Contract with recycling facility capable of handling e-wastes. Proposed Mitigation Measures 11. After environmental and social screening, mitigation measures will be identified for each negative impact identified during the screening process – with a particular focus on the worker’ occupational health and safety, disposal of e-waste, social exclusion or inequity and labor conditions. The Mitigation measures will be implemented by the IT beneficiaries with monitoring done by the ESO at PIA. Environmental and Social Management Plan 12. Generic ESMP is prepared based on the potential risks and impacts associated with subprojects. The generic ESMP provides in addition to the potential impacts the required mitigation measures, institutional responsibilities and recommended monitoring activities and their frequency. In general, the responsible parties for implementation of mitigation measures and monitoring will be 7 the IT suppliers (Contractor), ESO at PIA, and MTIT as well as EQA. While the main responsible parties during operations will be the beneficiaries/subproject owners, including the monitoring responsibility of MTIT as well as EQA for e-waste disposal. Detailed ESMP for different project phases is provided in Chapter 7 of this report. 13. Generic ESMP will be adjusted/updated, where required, based on the findings of the screening process of subproject where data collection and impact assessment processes will be conducted. Environmental Monitoring 14. Environmental monitoring needs to be carried out continuously during the implementation and operation of sub-projects in order to measure the success of the recommended mitigation measures. Monitoring activities will be carried out by ESO at PIA. Any changes in monitoring parameters must have the approval of the ESO at PIA and the World Bank Team. Stakeholder Engagement 15. Stakeholder engagement is critical in preparing effective and sustainable subprojects activities. This requirement supports the participatory planning process as required by the World Bank and the Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy (PEAP). It is important that beneficiaries are involved in the project cycle, from the screening to implementation and monitoring. The same applies to relevant stakeholders. 16. For each subproject, the first step is to hold consultations with interested/affected parties during the subproject screening process. Consultations with all stakeholders will be conducted according to the SEP which is prepared in a stand-alone document for the project. 17. Once the subproject has been selected based on criteria for developing grant proposals and the screening process has been completed, the PIA will conduct consultations with stakeholders about the results and identify key issues and determine how the concerns of affected or interested individual or group will be addressed in the ESMP. 18. PIA and MTIT will disclose on their websites http://www.xxx.ps), project information and all key documentation, including ESMF, ESMP, LMP, and SEF to allow stakeholders to understand the risks and impacts of the project, and potential opportunities. Public consultations are critical in preparing effective and sustainable subprojects activities. This requirement supports the participatory planning process as required by the World Bank and the Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy (PEAP). It is important that beneficiaries are involved in the project cycle, from the screening to implementation and monitoring. The same applies to relevant stakeholders. 8 CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background 19. The objective of this Environmental and Social Management Framework (ESMF) is to ensure that the project’s software and hardware activities including installation of IT facilities are designed and implemented in an environmentally and socially sustainable manner, taking into account Palestinian's relevant sector legislation as well as the World Bank’ Environmental and Social Framework (ESF). 20. The ESMF is developed by Ministry of Telecommunications and Information Technology (MTIT) to manage risks under the Technology for Jobs Project (Tech4Jobs) called hereafter (the Project). International Bank for Reconstruction and Development/International Development Association called hereinafter (the Association) has agreed to provide financing for the Project. The Palestinian Authority (PA) is considering selecting competitively private sector entity to act as Project Implementation Agency (PIA), who will be responsible for implementing the Tech4Jobs project on behalf of MTIT. PIA will be responsible for following up the implementation of the environmental and social considerations and mitigation measures stated in the ESMF. 21. PIA will be responsible through qualified environmental and social expert for completing the Environmental and Social Screening Form prepared in this ESMF, and based on the screening results, appropriate update of the generic Environmental and Social Plan (ESMP) which is also prepared in this ESMF will be carried out. The screening process has been developed because the locations and the exact type of interventions are not known prior to the project appraisal, and therefore potential adverse localized environmental and social impacts cannot be precisely identified. Furthermore, Palestinian’s environmental legislation does not have provisions for the environmental and social screening of small- scale projects, such as supply of computers, cloud, and office ergonomics included in the Tech4Jobs Project, whereas the World Bank’s ESF requires that all projects are screened for potential adverse environmental and social impacts to determine the appropriate mitigation measures. 1.2 Level of Environmental Work 22. The appropriate level of environmental work could range from the application of simple mitigation measures (using the Environmental and Social Checklist); to the preparation of updated ESMP Report; to no environmental work being required. The environmental and social screening process is consistent with Palestinian's environmental policies and laws, as well as with the World Bank’s ESF. 23. It is expected that the project will have limited negative environmental impacts. However, potential adverse social impacts that would require proper mitigation might occur. The Environmental and Social Screening Form will enable project implementing agency (PIA) to identify, assess and mitigate potential negative environmental impacts; and to ensure proper mitigations. 1.3 Coordination with Environmental Quality Authority 24. It is important during the implementation to coordinate with EQA to ensure that the investments are consistent with the PEAP. This will be achieved by ensuring the involvement of the EQA Regional Environmental Office in the evaluation of environmental impacts, preparing the updated ESMP, and 9 during implementation of subprojects. 1.4 Preparation and Use of this Framework 25. ESMF approach is selected because the Tech4Jobs project consists of series of activities, and the risks and impacts cannot be determined until the subproject details have been identified. The ESMF provides a guide to be used in accordance to Palestinian’s environmental assessment policy and the World Bank’ ESF. This ESMF will be a living document that will be subject to periodic review to address specific concerns raised by stakeholders. 26. This Environmental and Social Screening Process is to be used by PIA responsible for planning, implementation, management of Tech4Jobs subprojects. As a reference material, the process could be useful by other Ministries/Authorities and Non-governmental organizations involved in similar projects. 1.5 Organization of the Framework 27. The Framework is organized as follows: Chapter 1 provides the introduction to the Framework; Chapter 2 presents the legal framework; Chapter 3 presents a summary of the Tech4Jobs project; Chapter 4 describes the potential environmental and social impacts of the Project; Chapter 5 describes the proposed environmental and social mitigation measures; Chapter 6 presents the environmental and social screening process for projects; Chapter 7 presents the stakeholder engagement and public consultation process carried out during the preparation of the ESMF and summarizes the outcomes; Chapter 8 indicates environmental indicators how environmental and social monitoring will be conducted; Chapter 9 provides the institutional setup for environmental and social monitoring and capacity building and training at PIA and MTIT to ensure efficient implementation of the ESMF. 10 CHAPTER TWO: THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK 2.1 Palestinian Legislation Relevant to the Implementation of the Tech4Jobs project 28. The proposed Tech4Jobs Project will be implemented in compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations. Palestine has an environmental assessment Policy that is applicable to the proposed project. In addition, a wide range of laws and regulations related to environmental issues are in place in Palestine. Many of these are cross-sectoral and partially related to the Project activities. This chapter presents an overview of the major national environmental laws and regulations that are relevant and may apply to activities supported by the project, and World Bank’s ESF. 2.2 Institutional Framework 29. At present EQA is the main Authority which responsible for environmental issues in Palestine. 2.3 Environmental Legal Framework 2.3.1 The Palestinian Environmental Law 30. The Palestinian Environmental Law (PEL) No. 7 of 1999 was developed by the Environment Quality Authority (EQA), to protect environmental resources, including land environment; air environment; water resources and aquatic environment; and natural, archaeological and historical heritage. According to the PEL, the protection of these resources shall be addressed in all social and economic development plans in view of sustainable development and protection of the rights of future generations. 31. The core issues of concern in the PEL are the protection of public health and social welfare, as well as the conservation of ecologically sensitive areas, biodiversity and rehabilitation of environmentally damaged areas. The PEL also sets penalties for violating any article presented under this law. The main objectives of the PEL include the following: (i) Protecting the environment from pollution, (ii) protecting public health and social welfare, (iii) incorporating environmental resources protection in all social and economic development plans and promoting sustainable development to protect the rights of future generations, (iv) conserving ecologically sensitive areas, protecting biodiversity, and rehabilitating environmentally damaged areas, (v) establishing inter-ministerial cooperation, (vi) promoting environmental information collection and publication, (vii) promoting public awareness, education and training. 32. Article 8 of this law reads, "The competent authorities, consistent with their respective specialization, shall encourage undertaking appropriate measures to reduce the generations of solid waste or any other hazardous waste to the lowest level possible, and to the best extent possible, shall encourage solid waste treatment, recycling or processing". 33. In accordance with Article 12, and 13, the disposal of any hazardous substance or waste should not be done, unless such a process is conform with the terms, regulations, instructions and norms specified by EQA, in coordination with specialized agencies. Moreover, Article 47, EQA, in coordination with appropriate authorities, is responsible for determining projects that require environmental approvals prior to licensing. The current project is bounded with Article 47. 2.3.2 The Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy (PEAP) 34. The Palestinian Environmental Assessment Policy (PEAP) was approved by decree No: 27� 11 23/4/2000. It supports the sustainable economic and social development of the Palestinian people. Specifically, the PEAP objectives are to: (i) ensure an adequate quality of life in all aspects, and ensure that the basic needs and social, cultural, and historical values of the people are not negatively impacted as a result of development activities, (ii) preserve the capacity of the natural environment, (iii) conserve biodiversity and landscape, and promote the sustainable use of natural resources, (iv) avoid irreversible environmental damage, and minimize reversible environmental damage from development activities. 35. Under the PEAP, proponents of public and private projects are required to submit an Application for Environmental Approval that informs the EQA and relevant approving authorities of the intended project activities. Subsequently, a determination is made whether an Initial Environmental Evaluation (IEE) or a detailed EA is required. If neither an IEE nor EA report is required, the EQA, in coordination with the EA Committee, will determine if an Environmental Approval will be granted and, if so, under what conditions. 2.4 World Bank Environmental and Social Framework/ESSs 36. The World Bank Environmental and Social Framework sets out the World Bank’s commitment to sustainable development, through a Bank Policy and a set of Environmental and Social Standards that are designed to support Borrowers’ projects, with the aim of ending extreme poverty and promoting shared prosperity. There are ten Environmental and social standards (ESS’s), these are: • ESS1: Assessment and Management of Environmental and Social Risks and Impacts. • ESS2: Labor and Working Conditions. • ESS3: Resource Efficiency and Pollution Prevention and Management. • ESS4: Community Health and Safety. • ESS5: Land Acquisition, Restrictions on Land Use and Involuntary Resettlement. • ESS6: Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Management of Living Natural Resources. • ESS7: Indigenous Peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities. • ESS8: Cultural Heritage. • ESS9: Financial Intermediaries. • ESS10: Stakeholder Engagement and Information Disclosure. 37. Full list and details of World Bank environmental and social standards can be found in the following link: http://pubdocs.worldbank.org/en/837721522762050108/Environmental-and-Social- Framework.pdf. 38. ESS1 and ESS10 applies to all projects supported by the Bank through Investment Project Financing. The Borrower will engage with stakeholders as an integral part of the project’s environmental and social assessment and project design and implementation. 39. The project will not result in any risks related to involuntary resettlement. Therefore, ESS5 is not applicable to the Project as business infrastructure subprojects will be carried out within the existing companies’ premises. Private sector firms seeking grants to establish new enterprises or subsidiaries will need to demonstrate adherence to willing-buyer willing-seller criteria to qualify. Hence no land acquisition and resettlement will be required. 12 40. ESS7 is not relevant to the project as there are no indigenous peoples/Sub-Saharan African Historically Underserved Traditional Local Communities in the area and Gaza in general. 41. ESS9 is also not applicable to the project as the project will not use financial intermediaries as an instrument for channeling funds to the beneficiary communities in the project area of influence. 42. In line with ESS1, MTIT will prepare an ESMF and a generic ESMP for Component 2 of the project (related to the supply side of IT facilities, providing grants and training activities). In line with ESS2 and 4, MTIT has prepared Labor management Procedures. Also to fulfill the requirements of ESS10, MTIT has prepared stakeholder engagement framework (SEF). 13 CHAPTER THREE: THE TECH4JOBS PROJECT 3.1 Introduction 43. The project will support the efforts of the Government of Palestine in private sector-driven development and job creation. Tech4Jobs Project aims for an IT outsourcing industry that has potential to spur growth and improve employment outcomes for youth. This project is particularly aligned with two areas of engagement from the Bank Group FY-18-21 Assistance Strategy (AS) for WB&G. By exposing young Palestinian engineers to advanced research and development work at multinational corporations (MNCs), industry-driven skills will be nurtured and sharpened through support of the project. At the same time, the project will help deepen linkages and business opportunities for the Palestinian ecosystem with the hubs of prominent MNCs. 44. The project will consist of four components tackling the supply side, demand side and internal linkages of the market. As a starting point, a list of preliminary activities that address the various market and system failures. Component 1 will focus on the supply side, seeking to improve the capabilities of IT service exporters by supporting: (i) both technological and managerial upgrading in firms, including supporting the role of women in leadership positions in the sector; (ii) firms in the sector to access basic infrastructure they need to operate in global technology markets. Component 2 will focus on increasing global demand and investments in the IT service exports market. This will be achieved by investing in: (i) R&D facilities which can provide access to technology and services to the entire sector; (ii) activities to promote the Palestinian market abroad and broker deals between international buyers, investors and Palestinian businesses. Component 3 will help strengthen coordination of the different players within the IT ecosystem and enable stakeholders to implement collective projects that help the competitiveness of the sector as a whole. Component 4 will provide project management and monitoring (the PIA). The project components will address the factors affecting the dynamics of the ecosystem as shown in table below. Table 1: Component and sub-components and their direct beneficiaries Beneficiaries of TA or Activities funding 1 Component 1: Improving IT service capabilities 1.1 Individuals, firms Human capital improvement stipends 1.2 Individuals, firms Advisory services on managerial capabilities 1.3 Individuals, firms IT and gender needs assessment and engagement 2 Component 2: Improving the IT services ecosystem 14 2.1 Seed grants to stimulate private investments in the IT Individuals, Firms service ecosystem 2.2 Grants for shared R&D centers Firms 2.3 Grants for IT business infrastructure (focus on Gaza) Firms 3 Component 3: Improving market access, and increasing demand and investments 3.1 Firms Awareness raising and international market linkages 3.2 Firms Promotion and facilitation of FDI in the Palestinian IT ecosystem 4 Component 4: Project management 4.1 Project management and monitoring PIA 4.2 Technical assistance to MTIT PIA, MTIT 45. The project scope support under component 2.1 Seed grants to stimulate private investments in the IT service ecosystem, with expected increased number of IT equipment, and therefore increase of e- waste. The project will also allocate grants for IT infrastructures in component 2.3. The project will also support office facilities for improvements in office ergonomics. The social risks are due to risks related to social exclusion, risk of exposure of youth, including vulnerable youth and women to sexual harassment or exploitation, or poor working conditions, and risks related to labor and working conditions for project workers and beneficiaries. All sub-projects shall be subjected to environmental and social screening so as to determine its impacts and propose various mitigation measures on the impacts to be identified and implemented in compliance with the national environmental legislation as well as relevant and the World Bank’s ESF. 46. The solar systems under this project will be complemented with other World Bank operation namely Electricity Sector Performance Improvement Project (ESPIP), component 3. The environmental and social measures for the installation of solar panels and end of life wasted solar panels, batteries are spilled out in the environmental and social management framework of the ESPIP project. 47. To ensure compliance with the environmental and social requirements of the subprojects, the ESO at PMU should: • Ensure that proper appraisal of environmental and social effects of new interventions 15 takes place and proper measures are put in place to mitigate these effects; • Set out the basis for compliance and enforcement of terms and conditions of approval of project plans; • Monitor compliance and management of environment and social issues; • Engage stakeholders who will be giving their views in regard to the environmental and social concerns. 48. The environmental and social screening process will be used at the planning stage of the sub-project to determine potential adverse environmental and social impacts. The ESO at PIA will fill the environmental and social screening form. Based on that the ESO will prepare the sit-specific ESMP making used of the generic ESMP. 16 CHAPTER FOUR: THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL RISK SCREENING PROCESS FOR SUB- PROJECTS 4.1 Environmental and Social Screening in the Framework 49. The Environmental and Social Screening Process outlined in the ESMF provides mechanism to determine whether future sub-projects are likely to have potential negative environmental and social impacts; to determine appropriate mitigation measures for activities with potentially adverse impacts; to incorporate mitigation measures into sub- project design; to review and approve sub-project proposals; and to monitor environmental parameters during a sub-project's implementation. The extent of environmental and social works that might be required for sub-projects prior to commencement, if any, will depend on the outcome of the screening process described below. Environmental and social screening form in (Annex 1).This will be undertaken by qualified ESO at PIA. 4.2 Application of the Screening processes 50. Since the specific details and locations of the sub-projects that will be undertaken by PIA are not known at this time, an environmental and social screening process is proposed in this ESMF. The objectives of the screening process are to: • Determine the potential adverse environmental and social impacts of the sub-project; • Determine the appropriate environmental and social risk classification as per the environmental and social standards; • Based on the environmental and social risk assessment and classification, determine the appropriate level of environmental work required (i.e. the application of simple mitigation measures (using the Environmental and Social Checklist); to the preparation of updated ESMP Report; to no environmental work being required. Determine appropriate mitigation measures for addressing adverse impacts using the Environmental and Social Checklist (annex 2); this checklist can be adjusted to reflect sub-project-specific environmental and social management requirements; • Determine the extent of potential solid waste generation and appropriate mitigation measures; • Incorporate environmental mitigation measures as presented in the screening form into the proposed sub-project design; • Determine whether community peoples are likely to be affected by the sub-project; • Facilitate the review and approval of the screening results and updated ESMP from the World Bank Team approval. 51. The following procedure will be followed for the selected subprojects. • The first step in environmental assessment will be preliminary screening. The ESO at PIA will accomplish this task by completing the environmental and social screening form (annex 1) described in the ESMF. • The completed environmental and social screening form (annex 1 of the ESMF) is attached to the recommendation and submitted to the World Bank team and EQA for review and clearance prior to the commencement of the subproject. • The environmental assessment will be undertaken in a participatory manner and the stakeholder consultations will be documented in the environmental assessment documents; • The Environmental Guidelines for benefiting firms/individuals (annex 4) will be 17 attached to the Request for Proposal (RFP)/bidding documents to ensure environmentally and socially sound construction practices. • The World Bank Team and EQA will ensure that environmental concerns are addressed during planning, design, implementation and operations of the subprojects and appropriate mitigation measures are in place. 52. Proposed sub-project selection, design, contracting, mitigation, monitoring and evaluation will be consistent with agreed process outlined in the ESMF and ESMP will be fully integrated into the Project Implementation Plan/Operations Manual and project cost tables. 53. The list of measures to mitigate potential adverse impacts as per screening results, including terms and conditions and the ESMP, supplemented by any additional site specific measures will be attached as a part of the contract specifications. A clause in the Particular Conditions of Contract will refer to the Environmental and Social Management Plan for a sub-project. The Particular Conditions of Contract prepared by ESO at PIA based on the environmental and social management plan will also stipulate that any non-compliance with the mitigation measures set out in the contract will attract the same remedies under the contract as any non-compliance with the contract provisions; such remedies would be instructions, notices, suspension of works, etc. The Instruction to Bidders will highlight the inclusion of the ESMP in the contract specifications and the contractor’s obligation of compliance. The performance agreement will carry a clause to the effect that the recipient shall ensure the design, supply, operation and implementation of the sub-project are carried out in accordance with the ESMF. In addition Environmental Guidelines for benefiting firm/individual (Annex 3) will be implemented and monitored by the ESO at PIA. 4.3 The Screening Process 54. The purpose of this step is to identify the scale of the impacts and appropriate mitigation measures to determine the level of EA required for the project. The environmental risk associated with the project activities/subprojects is considered low and the social risk is moderate as indicated in section 6.2 below, therefore a social management plan will be required. 55. Prior to the commencement of sub-project the screening process described below will be carried out. Step 1: Screening Of Sub-project Activities and Sites 56. Site visit will be carried out to the selected benefiting firm by the ESO at PIA to complete the Environmental and Social Screening Form (Annex 1). 57. The screening form, when correctly completed, will facilitate the identification of potential environmental and social impacts, the determination of risk classification and their significance, the determination of appropriate environmental and social mitigation measures. 58. To ensure that the screening form is completed correctly for the various sub-project activities, training should be provided to the benefiting IT company staff on Environment and social issues as part of strengthening their capacity. Step 2: Assigning the Appropriate Environmental Risk classification 18 59. The environmental and social screening form, when completed, will provide information on the assignment of the appropriate environmental risk classification to a particular subproject. 60. The ESO at PIA will be responsible for assigning the appropriate environmental risk classification to the proposed sub-project with the requirements of WB ESF: (a) High Risk classification: the proposed project is classified as of High Risk if it is likely to have significantly adverse environmental impacts. These impacts may affect an area broader than the sites or facilities subject to physical works. A full EIA is required. The EIA examines the project's potential negative and positive environmental impacts, compares them with those of feasible alternatives, including a no-action i.e. no-project alternative and also incorporates public consultations as per the national EIA regulation requirements. The EIA will recommend needed measures to prevent, minimize, mitigate or compensate for adverse impacts and help improve environmental performance. None of the sub-projects in the Tech4Jobs is expected to be within this risk category. (b) Substantial Risk classification: A proposed project is classified as of Substantial Risk, if its potential adverse environmental impacts on human populations and environment are less adverse than those of High Risk Category. These impacts are site-specific; few if any of them are irreversible; and in most cases mitigation measures can be designed and implemented more readily than for high risk category projects. (c) Moderate or low risk classification: A proposed project is classified as of moderate or Low Risk if it is likely to have minimal or no adverse environmental impacts. For projects with moderate impacts and limited scale/footprint, an ESMP will be required. Projects of low risks, simple mitigation measures in place such as checklist or no further environmental action are required for this classification. Step 3: Carrying Out Environmental and Social Assessment 61. After reviewing the information provided in the environmental and social screening form, and having determined the appropriate environmental risk classification, ESO at PIA will determine the appropriate level of environmental work which could range from the application of simple mitigation measures (using the Environmental and Social Checklist); to the preparation of ESMP following the provisions outlined in the ESMF; to no environmental work being required. Step 4: Review and Approval of the Screening Activities 62. The results and recommendations presented in the environmental and social screening forms, the proposed mitigation measures presented in the environmental and social checklists, and the completed environmental and social plans will be reviewed and approved by the World Bank Team. Step 5: Stakeholder engagement and Public Consultations 63. Stakeholder engagement and public consultation is a regulatory requirement to fulfill the requirements of World Bank ESSs by which the public's input on matters affecting them is sought in regard to the subproject during planning, implementation and operation. Its main objectives will be improving the efficiency, transparency and public involvement in the sub- project. It will involve notification (to publicize the matter to be consulted on), consultation (a 19 two-way flow of information and opinion exchange) as well as engagement of affected groups. Step 6: Environmental and Social Monitoring 64. This describes the processes and activities that need to take place to characterize and monitor the environmental and social issues of the sub-project. The objectives for monitoring are to: (i) keep the record of environmental and social impacts resulting from the sub-project activities and to ensure implementation of the “mitigation measures� identified earlier, (ii) alert project implementation team by providing timely information about any recommended changes that deemed necessary; and (iii) evaluate whether the mitigation measures designed into the sub-projects have been successfully implemented. 65. Environmental and social monitoring needs to be carried out during the three phases of the sub-project implementation in order to measure the success of the recommended mitigation measures. Monitoring activities in site will be carried out by ESO at PIA. Any changes in monitoring parameters must have the approval of the ESO at PIA and the World Bank Team. 66. Pre-implementation Phase: subproject activities are subjected to environmental and social screening in conformity with the guidelines in the ESMF and specific subproject ESMP is prepared on time and incorporated into RFP/bidding documents. 67. Implementation Phase: ESO at PIA will conduct compliance monitoring, using the specific environmental and social measures relevant to, and prescribed for the activities as well as to assess general environmental and social management/performance. Report should contain information with regard to environmental and social compliance in accordance to the provisions of the contract. A monitoring plan should be prepared by the ESO at PIA. 68. Post-implementation Phase: ESO at PIA will prepare a summary report for the implementation effectiveness of all environmental and social mitigation measures and share it with MTIT, stakeholders, and with the World Bank. The following are some of the pertinent parameters and verifiable indicators that can be used to measure ESMF process, mitigation plans and performance. • Are periodic monitoring reports being completed? • Are processes defined in the ESMF working well? • How many complaints/grievances have been received regarding the project? 69. End-of-life disposal of hazardous materials including e-waste should be monitored by the benefiting companies through: (i) transporting the hazardous materials using registered transport services, and (ii) ensuring that he-waste is disposed off at approved waste sites selected by EQA. Step 7: Environmental and Social Monitoring Indicators 70. The environmental indicators that need to be monitored under the Tech4Jobs subprojects include: e-waste management, social exclusion or inequity, and labor and working conditions. 20 CHAPTER FIVE: STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT 71. A Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) is already prepared by MTIT for the Project as required by ESS10. This chapter is a summary of the SEP document. For more details on the SEP requirements and activities, please refer to the SEP document. 5.1 Rationale for Consultation and Disclosure 72. Public consultations are critical in preparing effective and sustainable sub-projects including not only the construction/installation activities but also all project components. This requirement supports the participatory planning process as required by the World Bank and the national environmental assessment regulations. It is important that beneficiaries are involved in the project cycle, from the screening process to implementation and monitoring. The same applies to relevant stakeholders. 73. The first step for subproject preparation is to hold consultations with the project’s affected and interested parties during the screening process, when preparing the subproject ESMP. And for software activities, consultations with all stakeholders according to the SEP should be conducted. PIA will provide during consultation sufficient information on the GRM process and means by which grievances can be raised and will be addressed. 74. To facilitate meaningful consultations, PIA should provide all the relevant material and information in a timely manner, and in a form and language that are understandable. The location of the relevant documents should be advertised through commonly used media. Depending on the public interest in the potential impacts of the sub projects, a consultation session may be required to better convey concerns. 75. Once the sub-project has been selected based on criteria for developing grant proposals and the screening process has been completed, the PIA will conduct consultations with the public about the results and identify key issues and determine how the concerns of affected or interested individual or group will be addressed in the ESMP for construction/installation of sub-projects. The appeals process will be according to the national regulations and the WB's provisions respectively. 76. To fulfill the requirements of ESS10, MTIT has prepared stakeholder engagement framework (SEF). The purpose of a Stakeholder Engagement Framework is to explain how Stakeholder Engagement will be practiced throughout the project life cycle and which methods will be used as part of the process; as well as to outline the responsibilities of PIA in the implementation of stakeholder engagement activities. A Stakeholder Engagement Plan will be developed based on this Stakeholder Engagement Framework as soon as the specific project component/sub-projects, stakeholder groups, and schedule of activities are known. 77. The PIA and MTIT will disclose on their websites http://www.xxx.ps), project information and all key documentation, including ESMF, ESMP, ESF, to allow stakeholders to understand the risks and impacts of the project, and potential opportunities. The information will be disclosed in local language, taking into account any specific needs of groups that may be differentially or disproportionately affected by the project or groups of the population with specific information needs (such as, disability, literacy, women, mobility, differences in language or accessibility). 78. The disclosure should include information on: (i) stakeholder engagement process, highlighting 21 the ways in which stakeholders can participate; (ii) time and venue of any proposed public consultation meetings, and the process by which meetings will be notified, summarized, and reported and; (iii) the process and means by which grievances can be raised and will be addressed. 79. The project will take special measures to ensure that disadvantaged and vulnerable groups have equal opportunity to access information, provide feedback, or submit grievances. Focus group meetings dedicated specifically to vulnerable groups identified for the sake of the project may also be envisaged as appropriate. As the PIA will also ensure coordination of the project’s communications strategy, covering all project components and stakeholders, PIA will ensure that the views of vulnerable groups will be included in the project’s communications strategy. 80. Grievance Mechanism: A grievance redress mechanism (GRM) will be in place for this project to ensure that PAPs have the access to a viable system to file grievances and to seek resolution with no intimidation or coerciveness. PIA should inform PAPs and other potential complainants of the GRM, its functions, procedures, timelines and contact persons' information both verbally and through booklets and information brochures during consultations meetings and other stakeholder engagement activities. 22 CHAPTER SIX: ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL IMPACTS 6.1 Purpose of the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) 81. The purpose of the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) is to provide guidance during the implementation of subprojects related to stimulation of private investments in the IT service ecosystem in component 2.1 and IT infrastructures subproject in component 2.3 Towards this end, the ESMP will: • Determine the potential impacts of sub-projects and set out the proper mitigation measures to mitigate the impacts; • Set out the basis for compliance and enforcement of terms and conditions for approval; • Monitor compliance. 82. Thus, the subproject ESMP (annex 4) (i) describes the potential adverse environmental and social impacts of future subprojects; (ii) outlines proposed mitigation measures to be adopted and indicate parties responsible for implementing mitigation measures; (iii) identifies parties that will carry out the monitoring of the implementation of the mitigation measures; (iv) outlines the time horizons for the various activities; and (v)detail the associated costs and sources of funds. The ESMP will be included in the Project Implementation Manual and the cost estimates for implementing the ESMP will be included in project cost tables. 6.2 Environmental and Social Impacts 83. As regards the proposed Tech4Jobs, it would include sub-projects, potential adverse environmental and social impacts on the natural and human environment are likely to be associated with the future sub-projects. The sources of impacts will arise from subproject processes at the selection and operation phases, and end-of-life. 84. After concept stage of the Tech4Jobs project, the project component for funding rooftop solar panels, AC, and similar equipment was dropped from the project. The project current scope support under component 2.1 Seed grants to stimulate private investments in the IT service ecosystem, with expected increased number of IT equipment, and therefore increase of e-waste. The project will also allocate grants for IT infrastructures in component 2.3. The risks associated with these activities are generally short-term, temporary and reversible which can be reduced or eliminated by known mitigation me asures. At this stage of the project it’s not clear whether PIA have record of in-house environmental and social management capacity or not. Based on this, the environmental risk classification is " moderate". 85. Despite the small scale and localized nature of the sub-projects, the environmental risks and impacts discussed above are of moderate significance. There will be also some environmental benefits through improving the office ergonomics. 86. The social risks associated with the project are considered moderate. The social risks are limited in nature and scale, and can be summarized as follows: (1) risks related to social exclusion in its various forms that would need to be mitigated through ensuring that project benefits, such as access to grants, and job opportunities, can be accessed and optimized for the most vulnerable and youth, including those from poor communities and women, (2) risk 23 of exposure of youth, including vulnerable youth and women to sexual exploitation, or poor working conditions, (3) risks related to labor and working conditions for project workers who are hired for the project, depending on the resource arrangements (i.e. civil servants and consultants), workers engaged with benefitting firms/companies (who get jobs at tech- enabled companies as a result of investment grants that pay their salaries provided by the project). LMP was prepared to address the labor related issues. 87. An assessment of Gender Based Violence (GBV) was done and the risk is rated low. The project level GRM will include specific procedures for GBV including confidential reporting and ethical documentation of GBV cases. The project will not result in any risks related to involuntary resettlement. Private sector firms seeking grants to establish new enterprises or subsidiaries will need to demonstrate adherence to willing-buyer willing-seller criteria to qualify. 88. Key Labor Risks: It is assessed that the key labor risks are: • Indiscriminate Human Resources Policies and Procedures; • Indiscriminate Working Hours and Leave; • Indiscriminate Wages and Benefits; • Non-Discrimination and Equal Opportunities; • Grievances; • Child Labor; • Forced labor; • Working under pressure and poor working conditions through project financial support for on- the-job training programs and salaries for new employees. 89. However, these impacts have been assessed to be short-term impacts that can be minimized, if appropriate mitigation measures are applied, as required by and based on the recommendations in this report. 6.3 Mitigation Measures 90. Mitigation measures involve elimination of impact, or at least minimizing the impact to the lowest level possible. Mitigation measures are related to issues of waste management, labor and working conditions, institutional support including training, and recruitment of qualified personnel. 91. The mitigation measures for e-waste include; preparation of e-waste management plan to ensure transporting the e-waste using registered transport services, and e-waste are disposed off at designated disposal site approved by EQA. Contents of e-waste management plan is shown in Annex 5. 92. If PIA has a no environmental and social expert. Therefore, there is a need to recruit environmental and social officer (ESO) to be included in Project Implementation Unit (PIA). 93. PIA will mitigate the environmental and social impacts associated with the project activities by including environmental and social clauses/ESMP in all contracts to enforce compliance with these clauses/ESMP, and ensuring that benefiting firms' staff are familiar with these clauses/ESMP. Ensure that suppliers and benefiting companies implement subproject LMP. 24 Ensure fair competition by ensuring equal opportunity, fair competition by creating a level playing field, ensure access to information and transparency in decisions, undertake public consultation and information dissemination, and establish and create awareness on grievance redress mechanism as indicated in the SEP. 6.4 Monitoring Plan 94. Monitoring of the implementation of the ESMP will be done by ESO at PIA. The ESMP will outline the institutional arrangements and cost estimates for environmental and social management during the implementation and operation of the subprojects. 95. The following are specific institutional responsibility for the subprojects to be carried out by PIA and ESO: • To produce an annual and periodical reports to the World Bank indicating the actions that have been undertaken towards the implementation of subprojects on the environmental and social status. • Develop the key indicators for monitoring purposes with the World Bank and ensure the monitoring capabilities and reporting to the Bank. • Carrying out stakeholder engagement and consultation and collaborates with stakeholders where these sub-projects will be implemented. 96. The capacity building needed for PIA will be in terms of training which will involve environmental and social officer (ESO) since S/He will be involved directly in implementing this project in carrying out environmental and social screening and monitoring the environmental and social status. This training will ensure the ESO has adequate knowledge in environment and social aspects for sustainable development. The following course shall be offered to the ESO who will oversee the environmental and social aspects of the sub-projects they include; Environmental Management Systems and Impact Assessment& Implementation of the ESMF, and e-waste management and pollution control. 6.5 Identification of potential adverse impacts of projects and mitigation measures 97. Identification of potential adverse environmental and social impacts of sub-projects is an activity that will take place at project identification/planning stage. The processes will be carried out by ESO at PIA. 98. Proposed mitigation measures will be identified in line with the subproject Environmental and Social Screening results. Environmental measures will include: • Waste management; • Adherence to Environmental Guidelines for benefiting firm/individual (Annex 3) and recommendations made in the screening forms; Social measures will include: • Skills training for ESO in environmental and social screening; • Ensure fair competition by ensuring equal opportunity • Ensure access to information and transparency in decisions • Undertake public consultation and information dissemination 25 • Establish and create awareness on grievance redress mechanism 26 CHAPTER SEVEN: INSTITUTIONAL SETUP FOR ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MONITORING AND CAPACITY BUILDING REQUIREMENTS 7.1 Responsibilities for Environmental and Social Monitoring 99. Environmental and social monitoring will be carried out by the PIA. Monitoring of environmental and social safeguards needs to be carried out during the during the implementation and operation of the project. 100. Table 2 provides some of the key environmental and social monitoring indicators, to be adapted to the projects as necessary. These indicators should be included in the PIA project’s monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system. Table 2: Key Environmental and Social Monitoring Indicators ISSUE REMARKS Number of environmental mitigation measures implemented and financed by projects Implementation status of the Environmental Guidelines for benefiting firms Number of complaints on inconveniences caused by the project Number of consultations conducted 7.2 Monitoring, evaluation and reporting 101. Monitoring, evaluation and reporting on environmental issues will be part of project implementation processes and reporting systems. ESO at PIA will keep records of all environmental and social activities of sub-project. The ESO will carry out environmental and social screening process using the Environmental and Social Screening Forms (Annex 1). Compliance to environmental and social screening requirements will also be generated based on quarterly reports, annual reports, evaluation reports, feedback meetings and Implementation support missions. PIA will regularly report to the Bank on the status of environmental and social management of projects in the project’s Quarterly Reports. 7.4 Capacity Building and Environmental Trainings 102. Because the institutional capacity of the implementing agency is uncertain, the Project envisages recruiting qualified ESO at PIA and provide him with necessary capacity building to ensure that the ESMF is effectively implemented. The ESO will be exposed to formal training in the management of environmental and social issues. The training program to be done by consultant will include an orientation program on ESF, ESMF, LMP, SEP, environmental assessment processes, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), and participatory methodologies. Capacity building will help improve the effectiveness of stakeholders’ engagement in 27 management of environmental and social impacts during planning, implementation and operation of proposed sub-projects. 103. Capacity building will enhance the ESMF management capacity by allowing real application of the critical practices such as the following: • Basic practices: • Screening of subprojects for potential environmental and social impacts, assigning mitigation measures, public consultation; steps 1-7 to implement the environmental and social screening process for projects; • Management of impacts during implementation; monitoring of effectiveness of measures; • Monitoring and grievance redress. 28 ANNEXES 29 Annex 1: Environmental and Social Screening Form Introduction This form is a tool to standardize the environmental and social screening process of sub-projects. The main objective of the screening process is to identify and highlight environmental and social issues that need to be taken into account in further decisions, planning, and design of a project. The aim is to support the sustainable implementation of the planned investments under the above project. The screening must be carried out at an early stage of the sub-project, in accordance with the requirement for the World Bank ESF. The ESO at PIA must complete each section of this form, as outlined below. Project Identification: Name of Project: Benefitting Company: Contact person: Name: Phone: E-mail: Responsible person and the name of the person completing this form: Name: Phone: E-mail: Locality and date: Signature Signature (Benefiting company) (ESO) 30 1. The Screening Form The questions regarding this form or the procedure may be sent to: PIA Phone: E-mail: 2. Project Description 2.1 Name and Type of Project: 2.2 Expected start date (month/year) and project duration (in months) of the implementation phase: 2.3 List the technology and IT facilities to be used in the subproject: 2.4 Expected number of workers during operation: The Biological Environment 3. Pollution 3.1 Will the project produce e-waste? Yes No Provide an additional description for a “yes� answer: The Social Environment 4. Land Ownership 4.1 Describe the ownership of the premises where the subproject will be accomplished (e.g., rented, private property): 4.2 Is the benefiting company has a valid rent contract? Yes No 4.3 If yes, is the benefiting company has a permission from the premises owner to install the subproject? 31 Yes No 4.4 Is the project likely to provide local employment opportunities, including employment opportunities for women? Yes No 4.5 Is the project being designed with sufficient local participation (including the participation of women) in the planning, design, and implementation process? Yes No Provide an additional description for “yes� answers: RECOMMENDATIONS: Based on the above screening results, the proposed project has been assigned the environmental and social action: A. will not require additional environmental work: B. will require the application of simple mitigation measures C. will require the preparation of site-specific ESMP D. Subproject is rejected for the following reasons: Screening Form was completed by: Name Position Signature Date Screening Results were reviewed and approved by: Name Position Signature Date 32 Annex 2: Environmental and Social Checklist Please note that this checklist does not concern itself with screening which was done through annex 1 Potential Environmental & Social Impacts Proposed Mitigation Measures of subproject Creation of social exclusion or inequity Community participation Impacts of e-waste Proper disposal of waste Subproject specific recommendations Subproject Recommendations Technology and IT business infrastructure Seed grants to stimulate private investments R&D facilities /Training activities 33 Annex 3: Environmental and Social Guidelines for Benefiting Firm/Individual Beneficiary General Environmental and Social Management Conditions General 1. In addition to these general conditions, the benefiting entity firm/individual shall comply with any specific Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) for the works he is responsible for and plan to fully take into account relevant provisions of that ESMP. If the Contractor fails to implement the approved EMP after written instruction by PIA to fulfill his obligation within the requested time, PIA reserves the right to stop funding the subproject. 2. Child Labor: Benefiting entity firm/individual must not employ workers below the age of 18. 3. The benefiting entity shall adhere to the proposed schedule for monitoring to ensure effective feedback of monitoring information to project management so that Impact management can be implemented properly, and if necessary, adapt to changing and unforeseen conditions. 4. Areas for depositing end-of-life e-waste shall be approved by the PIA and EQA before the commencement of work. 5. Benefiting entity should inform PIA of any incident or accident caused by or affecting subproject implementation which has had or is likely to have a significant adverse impact on the workers or the natural environment. Grievance Mechanism for Workers Benefiting entity will put in place a Grievance Mechanism for their workers that is proportionate to their workforce, according to the following principles: • Provision of information: All workers should be informed about the grievance mechanism at the time they are hired, and details about how it operates should be easily available, for example, included in worker documentation or on notice boards. • Transparency of the process: Workers must know to whom they can turn in the event of a grievance. • Confidentiality. The process should ensure that a complaint is dealt with confidentially. While procedures may specify that complaints should first be made to the workers’ line manager, there should also be the option of raising a grievance first with an alternative manager, for example, a human resource (personnel) manager. • Non-retribution: Procedures should guarantee that any worker raising a complaint will not be subject to any reprisal. • Reasonable timescales: Procedures should allow for time to investigate grievances fully but should aim for swift resolutions. The longer a grievance is allowed to continue, the harder it can be for both sides to get back to normal afterwards. Time limits should be set for each stage of the process, for 34 example, a maximum time between a grievance being raised and the setting up of a meeting to investigate it. • Right of appeal: A worker should have the right to appeal to PIA and MTIT or national courts if s/he is not happy with the initial finding. • Right to be accompanied: In any meetings or hearings, the worker should have the right to be accompanied by a colleague or friend. • Keeping records: Written records should be kept at all stages. The initial complaint should be in writing if possible, along with the response, notes of any meetings and the findings and the reasons for the findings. Cost of Compliance It is expected that these conditions are part of standard good workmanship and state of art as generally required the Contract with the benefiting entity. No payments will be made to the benefiting entity for compliance with any request to avoid and/or mitigate an avoidable impact. 35 Annex 4: Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) Issue Likely Impact Mitigation measures Responsi Monitoring Time Horizon Cost bility Estimates (US$) Economic Help stabilize electricity supply • Ensure wide dissemination of PIA PIA Throughout - impact and to benefiting companies, thus information to all stakeholders the project livelihoods revitalizing businesses implementati on Social Could arise from fairness and • Ensure fair competition by PIA PIA Throughout - exclusion or equity in decision-making ensuring equal opportunity the project inequity • Apply SEF including: implementat • Ensure access to information and ion transparency in decisions • Undertake public consultation and information dissemination • Establish and create awareness on grievance redress mechanism Labor • Indiscriminate Human • Develop and implement grievance PIA/Contrac PIA Throughout Incl. in conditions Resources Policies and mechanism for workers tor the project Contract Procedures; • GBV, Child protection implementati • Indiscriminate Working Hours training/awareness campaign for on and Leave; contractor, sub-contractors and • Indiscriminate Wages and communities; Benefits; • Provisions for handling of GBV in • Non-Discrimination and Equal the GRM; Opportunities; • Development and • Grievances; implementation of a stakeholder • Child Labor; engagement plan (SEP) • Forced labor. • Development and Implementation of a Project Grievance Mechanism • (GM) 36 Issue Likely Impact Mitigation measures Responsi Monitoring Time Horizon Cost bility Estimates (US$) • Bidding documents to reflect the findings of the ESIA, and the requirements of the ESMP, to cater for GBV and overall ESHS risks e-waste Chemical contamination of soil • Prepare e-waste management • PIA • MTIT • Before - disposal and ground water from poor plan. project disposal of e-waste. • Dispose e-wastes at approved effective waste management sites using ness registered transport services and disposal site. • Do not treat e-waste as domestic waste • Contract with recycling facility capable of handling e-wastes. Training & As indicated in section 7.4, the training program to be done by consultant will include an orientation program (US$ Capacity on ESF, ESMF, LMP, SEP, environmental assessment processes, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), OHS, waste 10,000) Building for management, and participatory methodologies. ESO 37 Annex 5: Content of E-Waste Management Plan E-waste management plan consists of the following: a) Any e-waste generated as a result of end of life wasted IT facilities should be stored in separate containers. The containers should be labeled as “e-waste�. Labelling system should be clear and well known to the public and workers to ensue general safety. b) Transportation of the hazardous waste container should be with special vehicle by special contractor. Before the start of transporting this e-waste, a form should be filled by the generator and transporter indicating the amount of e-waste. A written permission for transporting the e-waste to registered treatment facility should be issued by EQA. c) Transboundary of e-waste is not allowed unless a written permission is issued by EQA. d) E- waste record keeping should be created and checked by ESO from time to time to make sure that e-waste is well managed. e) Existing technical facilities for treating and disposing of e-waste should be assigned before the start of the project. f) All workers should be familiar with e-waste warning signs. 38