Result of Service

The ultimate result of this consultancy is to produce a well-researched, foundational analysis that supports the development of a sustainable plastic recycling business model for SMEs in Cambodia. The consultant will deliver a comprehensive research report summarising findings on plastic waste management practices, preliminary business model insights, and stakeholder perspectives. This work will provide UNEP-IETC with essential data, stakeholder feedback, and preliminary analysis that will inform further stages of the feasibility study, ultimately contributing to sustainable waste management practices and circular economy goals for Cambodia.

Work Location

Home-based

Expected duration

The expected duration for this contract is for three (3) months (full time). However, as the consultancy needs to be completed by 31 March 2025, the duration may be shorter depending on the starting time. Start Date: 01-Jan-2025 End Date: 31-Mar-2025

Duties and Responsibilities

A. Background: (1) Organisation setting: The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) is the leading global environmental authority that sets the global environmental agenda, promotes the coherent implementation of the environmental dimension of sustainable development within the United Nations system and serves as an authoritative advocate for the global environment. The overall objective of the UNEP’s Industry and Economy Division is to encourage decision makers in government, local authorities and industry to develop and adopt policies, strategies and practices and technologies that promote sustainable patterns of consumption and production, make efficient use of natural resources, ensure safe management of chemicals and contribute to making trade and environment policies mutually supportive. It promotes the development, use and transfer of policies, technologies, economic instruments, managerial practices and other tools that assist in environmentally sound decision making and the building of corresponding activities. As part of the Industry and Economy Division, UNEP International Environmental Technology Centre (IETC) works with developing countries to implement sustainable solutions to environmental challenges, with focus on holistic waste management. UNEP-IETC provides technical and advisory support to national and local governments to enhance their use of environmentally sound strategies and approaches. UNEP-IETC also implements in-country demonstration projects using innovative waste prevention and management methods and technologies to improve human well-being, reduce the impact of climate change, increase resilience and create jobs. Working with a wide range of partners and in line with relevant multilateral environmental agreements, UNEP-IETC mission is to serve as a global centre of excellence on environmentally sound technologies with focus on integrated solid waste management. (2) Purpose: This consultancy is designed to develop a practical and financially sustainable business model for plastic waste recycling SMEs in Cambodia. The role builds upon foundational data collected during the market analysis phase, focusing on economic analysis and the development of strategies for scaling recycling practices. The assistant will work under UNEP-IETC’s guidance to address the financial, operational, and technical aspects of recycling businesses, ensuring the creation of actionable, scalable solutions for SMEs. This includes designing models that incorporate collection, sorting, processing, and financing mechanisms tailored to Cambodia’s market conditions. Responsibilities: The research assistant will support UNEP-IETC by gathering and analysing essential information related to plastic waste recycling practices and potential business models for SMEs in Cambodia. The responsibilities include: (1) Economic Feasibility Analysis: Assess costs, revenue potential, and operational challenges for SME-led recycling initiatives in Cambodia. Identify funding opportunities and existing financing mechanisms to support SMEs in the recycling sector. (2) Business Model Development: Design sustainable business models for SMEs, focusing on collection, processing, and the sale of recycled products. (3) Stakeholder Engagement Support: Engage SMEs, recycling facilities, government agencies, and financial institutions to gather insights on challenges, opportunities, and financing needs. (4) Report Preparation: Draft detailed reports outlining proposed business models, including financial projections and recommendations for implementation. Create visual presentations of the business model for UNEP-IETC and stakeholder These responsibilities ensure that the research assistant provides valuable foundational data and insights for UNEP-IETC’s comprehensive plastic recycling business model in Cambodia. Expertise and Experience: The consultant should have foundational expertise in waste management and recycling, specifically with an understanding of plastic waste management and circular economy principles. Key qualifications include: (1) Experience in waste management, recycling or environmental research: Experience in conducting preliminary research, data collection, or project support in waste management, recycling, or environmental fields. (2) Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with the stages of plastic recycling, from collection and sorting to processing and resale, as well as an understanding of small and medium enterprise (SME) operations. Knowledge of business models that support sustainability and recycling efforts is desirable. (3) Analytical and Research Skills: Proven ability to gather and analyse data on market dynamics, economic viability, and recycling practices, presenting findings in a clear and actionable manner. (4) Stakeholder Engagement Skills: Experience supporting consultations with diverse groups, including SMEs, government agencies, and waste sector stakeholders, to gather and integrate diverse perspectives into reports and analysis. (5) Understanding of national and local behaviours and customs in waste management and related social matters. This expertise ensures that the consultant can effectively contribute research and insights to inform UNEP-IETC’s feasibility study for developing a scalable, sustainable plastic recycling business model for SMEs in Cambodia. B. Duties: (A) Objectives: To provide a foundational understanding of the current landscape for plastic waste recycling among SMEs in Cambodia. To conduct economic feasibility analysis and market research that supports the development of sustainable business models for SMEs. To support UNEP-IETC’s project goals by delivering actionable insights and recommendations for fostering SME-led plastic recycling initiatives. (B) Output expectations: A report that maps out stakeholders and summarises initial data on plastic waste management practices. A draft report analysing economic viability, stakeholder insights, and preliminary business model suggestions. A final report that consolidates all research findings and presents recommendations for sustainable SME business models. (C) Performance indicators: Timely delivery of all reports and presentations, meeting the agreed-upon milestones. Quality of insights and data, ensuring clarity, accuracy, and relevance to Cambodia’s recycling sector. Stakeholder engagement success, evidenced by a diverse set of perspectives and buy-in from local SMEs and agencies. C. Specific tasks and responsibilities: (1) Support Preliminary Research and Stakeholder Mapping Collect and analyse initial data on the current state of plastic waste management and recycling activities in Cambodia, with a focus on SME involvement. Identify and map out relevant stakeholders, including SMEs, government bodies, waste collectors, and recycling facilities, to understand their roles, interests, and capacities in the recycling sector. (2) Support Market Analysis and Feasibility Insights Support economic and market analysis to evaluate the viability and potential business opportunities for plastic recycling by SMEs. Engage with stakeholders to gather insights into financial, technical, and operational challenges and opportunities in recycling practices. Draft recommendations on business model frameworks that can be adopted by SMEs, based on data and stakeholder input. (3) Final Report and Presentation of Findings Finalise a report that integrates data, market analysis, and stakeholder insights into clear, practical recommendations for UNEP-IETC. Summarise findings in a presentation format, highlighting key takeaways and proposed strategies to foster SME-led plastic recycling initiatives in Cambodia.

Qualifications/special skills

(1) Academic qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science, Sustainability, Economics, Public Policy, or a related field. A higher degree in a relevant area, such as environmental management or sustainable development, is advantageous. (2) Experience • Several years of relevant experience in one of the substantives, technical and/or administrative fields in the environment; experience in waste management area is preferable. • Ability to support projects in developing contexts with experience in collecting, compiling, and presenting environmental or relevant data. • Experience in supporting stakeholder engagement, including collaboration with SMEs, government agencies, and community representatives in the waste sector.

Languages

Fluency in both oral and written English is required. Knowledge in Khmer is asset.

Additional Information

Not available.

No Fee

THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CHARGE A FEE AT ANY STAGE OF THE RECRUITMENT PROCESS (APPLICATION, INTERVIEW MEETING, PROCESSING, OR TRAINING). THE UNITED NATIONS DOES NOT CONCERN ITSELF WITH INFORMATION ON APPLICANTS’ BANK ACCOUNTS.