Framework for Environmental and Social Management

The Framework for Environmental and Social Management (FESM) establishes environmental and social performance requirements for FAO programming. The FESM includes key elements of a human rights-based approach with the goal to ensure that people and the environment are protected from any potential adverse impacts of FAO programmes and projects. It is also intended to ensure that all stakeholders have ample opportunities to actively participate in the activities of programmes and projects, and have access to effective channels to voice their concerns about them. The FESM reflects the organization’s commitment to sustainability with a new set of guiding principles, two operational pillars and nine environmental and social standards. Together they delineate the mandatory requirements related to the identification, assessment and management of multiple environmental and social risks and impacts associated with programmes and projects supported and implemented by FAO. The FESM introduces an innovative process of climate change and disaster risk screening to identify potential risks, mitigation and resilience measures. It also includes new and updated requirements to conserve and restore renewable natural resources and biodiversity; protect animal welfare; foster resilient livelihoods; manage wastes and non-pesticide hazardous materials; promote resource efficiency; protect community health and promote decent jobs; strengthen requirements for dealing with gender-based violence including the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse; respect Indigenous Peoples living in voluntary isolation; and enhance accountability, conflict resolution and grievance mechanisms.