European Bank for Reconstruction and Development

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), an international financial institution, reached out to us to request a country-specific Nature assessment. EBRDs goal is to transition towards ‘market-oriented economies and the promotion of private and entrepreneurial initiative’. 

How we supported EBRD

EBRD needed support with a country-specific assessment aiming to identify key challenges related to (1) nature (2) water, and (3) biodiversity and assess their interconnection with the economy and development. This then would be used as an evidence base for identifying economic sectors where economic service systems would pose significant risk to local biodiversity.

What we have done

Our project with EBRD was made up of several phases:

1. 1. We began with a comprehensive assessment of the current extent and condition of nature in the country. This was achieved using a multi-faceted integration of spatial analysis, data synthesis and stakeholder engagement. The collection and analysis of national and regional data was prioritised. Remote sensing and global biodiversity databases were then used to map key biodiversity areas, assess habitat loss and fragmentation, and evaluate water resource availability and quality.
2. 2. We then undertook a review of the government’s nature priorities. This was done through a thematic analysis of key documents, policies, and strategic plans relevant to biodiversity, water management, and conservation efforts. This process involved a detailed document review to extract and synthesise government-stated priorities, legislative frameworks, and action plans that pertain to environmental conservation and sustainable development. Using a thematic analysis approach, we identified recurring themes, assessing alignment with international biodiversity commitments and evaluating the coherence of these priorities with identified environmental challenges. This analysis enabled us to provide a critical assessment of the current policy landscape and identify gaps in this country’s nature-related policies and objectives.
3. 3. Using the spatial and qualitative data we collated, we strategically prioritised nature, water, and biodiversity challenges in the country by leveraging advanced analytical tools such as the WWF Water Risk Filter, WWF Biodiversity Risk Filter, and the World Resources Institute Aqueduct water risk mapping tool. We also used local expertise and stakeholder input to refine the results.
4. 4. In the last phase of the project, we employed a forward-looking approach to assess the implications of changing climate and development conditions in the country through qualitative scenario analysis. This enabled us to explore a range of future pathways based on different environmental, economic, and social trends. By considering a range of potential scenarios, we identified the resilience and vulnerabilities of the country’s natural ecosystems and biodiversity to future changes, including climate change, economic development patterns, and policy shifts. This analysis was informed by current data, expert knowledge, and stakeholder insights, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of possible futures.

What was the end results?

We integrated insights from all the steps and created a report with recommendations, including key priority sectors to be included in a nature-positive economic strategy, as well as the nature challenges and trade-offs to be considered. These recommendations were designed to support the country’s transition towards a nature-positive economy, focusing on sectors and practices that can be transformed to reduce environmental impacts while promoting economic growth and social well-being.