XM-DAC-41114-PROJECT-00084399 United Nations Development Programme Conserving Biodiversity and Enhancing Ecosystem Functions through a “Ridge to Reef” (R2R) Approach in the Cook Islands. Cook Islands Nat.Environ.Serv UNITED NATIONS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME UNITED NATIONS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME Global Environment Fund Truste registry.ws@undp.org https://www.undp.org/samoa Cook Islands The Implementing Partner shall ensure that all of its obligations set forth under the section entitled “Legal Context and/or Risk Management Standard Clauses” are passed on to each responsible party, subcontractor and sub-recipient and that all the clauses under this section entitled “Risk Management” are included, mutatis mutandis, in all sub-contracts or sub-agreements entered into further to the Project Document Consistent with the Article III of the SBAA [or the Supplemental Provisions to the Project Document], the responsibility for the safety and security of the Implementing Partner and its personnel and property, and of UNDP’s property in the Implementing Partner’s custody, rests with the Implementing Partner. To this end, the Implementing Partner shall: a) put in place an appropriate security plan and maintain the security plan, taking into account the security situation in the country where the project is being carried; b) assume all risks and liabilities related to the Implementing Partner’s security, and the full implementation of the security plan. Social and environmental sustainability will be enhanced through application of the UNDP Social and Environmental Standards (http://www.undp.org/ses) and related Accountability Mechanism (http://www.undp.org/secu-srm). XM-DAC-41114-OUTPUT-00092426 United Nations Development Programme Full Size Project for Cook Islands; Conserving Biodiversity and Enhancing Ecosystem Functions through a Ridge to Reef Approach in the Cook Islands Cook Islands Nat.Environ.Serv Global Environment Fund Truste UNITED NATIONS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME registry.ws@undp.org https://www.undp.org/samoa Cook Islands Cook Islands semi-independent political entity -21.248420 -159.785160 Eradicate poverty in all its forms and dimensions 2714 689 443465 1252074 1271751 831076 795830 1131672 90666 -268 United Nations Development Programme 434962 United Nations Development Programme 1049507 United Nations Development Programme 1232057 United Nations Development Programme 691404 United Nations Development Programme 518785 United Nations Development Programme 322679 United Nations Development Programme 39176 United Nations Development Programme 4288302 Cook Islands Nat.Environ.Serv Consistent with the Article III of the SBAA [or the Supplemental Provisions to the Project Document], the responsibility for the safety and security of the Implementing Partner and its personnel and property, and of UNDP’s property in the Implementing Partner’s custody, rests with the Implementing Partner. To this end, the Implementing Partner shall: a) put in place an appropriate security plan and maintain the security plan, taking into account the security situation in the country where the project is being carried; b) assume all risks and liabilities related to the Implementing Partner’s security, and the full implementation of the security plan. Social and environmental sustainability will be enhanced through application of the UNDP Social and Environmental Standards (http://www.undp.org/ses) and related Accountability Mechanism (http://www.undp.org/secu-srm). Project Objective: 1. Overall framework in place for conservation in the Southern Group of the Cook Islands 2. Area of inhabited Outer Islands in Southern Group managed for BD conservation through Island Development Plans 2.1 Terrestrial 2.2 Marine 3. Tracking Tool IW1: Innovative solutions implemented for reduced pollution, improved water use efficiency, sustainable fisheries with rights-based management, IWRM, water supply protection in SIDS, and aquifer and catchment protection Component 1: 1. Improved management effectiveness of Cook Islands Marine Park, as measured by GEF BD 1 Tracking Tool (METT) 2. National agencies responsible for PA management are effectively delivering PA management functions (as measured by the Capacity development indicator score for protected area system): 2.1 Systemic 2.2.Institutional 2.3 Individual 3. Updated and consolidated legal framework for management of the Cook Islands Marine Park (CIMP) and all other protected areas in the country 4. Consolidated management authority for protected areas in the Cook Islands 5. Management of protected area sites on islands in the Southern Group 6. % Area of Southern Group islands managed as Protected Areas (protected natural areas, community conservation areas, ra’ui sites) 6.1 Terrestrial 6.2 Marine (to the outer reef) 7. Improved management effectiveness of priority conservation zones, as measured by the GEF BD 1 Tracking Tool (METT): 7.1 Takitumu Conservation Area (Rarotonga) 7.2 Cloud Forest Nature Reserve (Rarotonga) 7.3 Manuae Wildlife Sanctuary / Marine Reserve (Manuae) 7.4 Moko Ero Nui Leeward Forest Reserve (Atiu) 7.5 Takutea Wildlife Sanctuary / Marine Reserve (Takutea) 8. Lagoon ecosystems are managed in a coordinated manner and with clear ecological conservation objectives 9. Funds available for management of Protected Areas, as reported in the GEF BD1 Tracking Tool – Financial Scorecard: 9.1 Non-governmental financing mechanisms 9.2 Government budget allocations 10. Conserva Project Objective: 1. Cook Islands Marine Park (CIMP) declared as protected, but with no legal designation or active management 2.2.1. 0 2.2.2. 0 3. Limited local capacity exists for overseeing and monitoring of water quality in lagoons Component 1: 1. METT score = 30 2.2.1 50% 2.2.2 47% 2.2.3 52% 3. Existing legislation for PAs is out-dated and incomplete: CIMP and Ra’ui systems have no legal standing; detailed regulations are not in place 4. Institutional authority for protected areas is spread among various agencies 5. 1 existing protected area site (Takitumu Conservation Area) is actively managed 6.6.1 2.8% 6.6.2 9.7% 7.7.1 64 7.7.2 26 7.7.3 12 7.7.4 26 7.7.5 29 8. Lagoons in the Cook Islands are not actively managed for conservation 9.9.1 US$23,800 9.9.2 US$63,750 10. Baseline TBD in year 1 of project 11.11.1. Baseline TBD in year 1 of project 11.11.2. Baseline TBD in year 1 of project 11.11.3. Baseline TBD in year 1 of project 11.11.4. Baseline TBD in year 1 of project 11.11.5. 420 individuals 11.11.6. 1,000 individuals 11.11.7. 428 individuals (Rarotonga); 125 individuals (Atiu) 11.11.8. 375 mature trees Component 2: 1.1.1. 0 1.1.2. 0 2.2.1. NZ$339,554 2.2.2. NZ$406,701 3. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process depends on self reporting by developers 4. 13,245 hectares of natural forested area 5. Sedimentation and pollution (pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, waste) have significant negative impacts on streams and lagoons in the country 6. Baseline TBD during year 1 of project 7. Less than 5 tourism businesses in the Cook Islands actively implement environmental management programs 8. 6 on-going projects in the Southern Group End of Project Targets Project Objective: 1. 1.1 million sq. km. of CIMP legally designated and actively managed, with dedicated staff implementing planning and coordination of the entire CIMP by end of year 2 2. By end of project: 2.1. 6 islands totalling 15,110 ha. 2.2. 6 islands totalling 16,174 ha. 3. Water quality improved through small demonstrations and monitoring mechanisms in place for project related indicators Component 1: 1. METT score > 60 by end of project 2. By end of project: 2.1. 70% 2.2. 70% 2.3. 70% 3. Protected and Managed Areas Act drafted and enacted by end of year 2; detailed regulations for resource restrictions and PA management enacted by end of project 4. Marae Moana Office undertaking coordinated management of protected areas by end of project 5. Management plans for at least 15 protected area sites under implementation by end of project 6. By end of project: 6.1. 6.7% 6.2 12.3% 7. By end of project: 7.1 METT score >70 7.2 METT score >50 7.3 METT score >40 7.4.METT score >50 7.5 METT score >50 8. Aitutaki Lagoon Master Plan in place, with conservation zoning, goals and targets 9. By end of project: 9.1. US$523,800 9.2. US$148,750 10. No decrease in finfish populations by end of project 11. By end of project: 11.1. No net decline in population 11.2. No net decline in population 11.3. No net decline in population 11.4. No net decline in population 11.5. No net decline in population 11.6. No net decline in population 11.7. No net decline in population 11.8. No net decline in forested area Component 2: 1. 1.1 million sq. km. (CIMP) 2. 0.83 million sq. km. (Northern Group) 3. At least 15% reduction in value of imports of agricultural chemicals by the end of the project 4. EIAs for infrastructure development in or around PAs are subject to independent review, and development plans are adapted as necessary to conserve biodiversity 5. No decline in forest cover by the end of the project 6. At least 10 sites within CIMP where water quality will be improved through measures to control water pollution and sedimentation (from agriculture or other sources) 7. No increase in algal levels on coral reefs by end of project 8. At least 20 tourism businesses are implementing BD management programs that comply with conservation guidelines developed through the project and included in national accreditation system 9. At least 15 projects operating by the end of the project 1. Target exceeded. 1.9 million sq.km of CIMP legally designated and actively managed, with dedicated staff implementing planning and coordination of the entire CIMP, through the Marae Moana Coordination Office (MMCO). 2. Marine areas have been assessed and this element of the target has been achieved and extensively exceeded, with final assessment of 16,551,493ha managed for biodiversity, more than 10x above the target threshold. This has been achieved under Marae Moana Act section 24. 2.1. 6 islands totalling 8,172ha of terrestrial area of inhabited Outer Islands in Southern Group are managed for biodiversity conservation through traditional systems and bylaws and supported through capacity development of traditional leaders and communities. 2.2. 6 islands totalling 16,551,493ha of marine area of inhabited Outer Islands in Southern Group are managed for biodiversity conservation through traditional systems and bylaws and supported through capacity development of traditional leaders and communities. 3. Indicator: reduced pollution - - Erosion & Sediment Control Guidelines 2019 were developed by the R2R IW project, which are planned to be brought under the revised Environment Act 2003, demonstrating sustainability/exit strategy and strengthened legislation/governance in this area. - ICI have replaced many culverts throughout Rarotonga to improve water drainage and reduce lagoon pollution caused by unmanaged storm water. - Ministry of Health conduct monthly testing of all public water stations to ensure they are safe for public use and consumption (unpolluted), with dated test results posted at each station. If polluted, the station is closed and measures are implemented to rectify this, with a new sign signalling once safe to use again and monthly tests resume. Indicator: improved water use efficiency - - Mana Tiaki Eco Certification scheme under Cook Islands Tourism (CIT) was established by R2R and encourages tourism operators and providers to conserve water by including it as one of the scoring criteria under the scheme. - Island-wide notices & warnings are issued when water is running low in certain areas/intakes so the community can limit their usage. - To Tatou Vai (TTV) was set up in 2018 as a State Owned Enterprise (SOE) responsible for managing and maintaining public water supply on Rarotonga, (infrastructure built under To Mato Vai (TMV) project). It will monitor water use in Rarotonga by installing meters at all households and applying charges accordingly, as well as monitoring intakes for water levels. Indicator: sustainable fisheries with rights-based management - - The Island Marine Spatial Planning (IMSP) process supported by the project led by MMCO and HoA is conducting extensive workshops and consultations with traditional leaders and communities for each island based on their use, traditional knowledge, customs, etc. Indicator: IWRM - - Integrated water resource management is being achieved under TTV as a coordinated approach to water resource management. - National Sustainable Development Plan (NSDP) goals and targets point to this as well with progress reported in annual indicator reports. Indicator: water supply protection in SIDS- - As mentioned above, TTV has been established to be responsible for public water supply on Rarotonga - The PEARL project, funded by the Adaptation Fund and housed at Climate Change Cook Islands (CCCI), has been handling water security in outer islands (incl Northern group) by providing infrastructure such as water tanks, etc. - The 2019 NSDP indicator report states “major improvements made with improved water storage capacity for the Pa Enua through aid-funded water tank projects”. - The Cook Islands Building Code 2019 developed by ICI includes elements of water protection/efficiency for both private and public buildings (parts D5/6/7 and NF5/6/7). CCCI have a project proposal with Green Climate Fund (GCF) to help implement these parts of the building code for enhanced water security. Indicator: aquifer and catchment protection – - Takuvaine water catchment was established in 2006 and under Environment Act 2003 regulations, with a management plan and local community-based committee of traditional landowners. - All catchments are proposed to be protected or managed under TTV Authority Bill. Compared against the baseline, local capacity for overseeing and monitoring of water quality in lagoons has been significantly increased since start of project based on regular lagoon water quality assessments conducted monthly by NES & MMR collaboratively, with MMR lab improvements supported by R2R and monthly water quality newsletters distributed by MMR. Additionally, improvements to Ministry of Health (MOH) water quality assessments have been made based on support from the PEARL project (Adaptation Fund), and the establishment of TTV also includes ongoing monitoring and management activities. Component 1: 1. Improved management effectiveness of Cook Islands Marine Park, as measured by METT score > 60 by end of project is expected to be achieved based on strategic & targeted investment in specific areas since MTR and CNA. This quarter this has resulted in the official review (x3) of the Marae Moana Outlook Report. 2. Capacity development indicator scores for the protected area system were assessed as part of the CNAR in 2019; however the baseline assessment used a methodology that UNDP have been unable to verify. This means that a comparison between baseline, 2019 and at TE is not feasible. That being said, final assessments will be attempted at terminal evaluation. The Protected Areas Management Policy (PAMP) Adviser has been recruited this quarter and is working closely with the Chief Technical Adviser (CTA) and Project Management Unit (PMU) to address this indicator, with the following outputs in motion: - Development of a national Protected Areas Classification System (PACS) - Review of national PA policies and Acts - Development of consolidated PA policy - Workshops with key stakeholders to establish the home of the new PA policy - Development of a revised and updated national PA master list to inform and update WDPA. Collectively, these are increasing the systemic, institutional and individual capacities within the Cook Islands to more effectively deliver PA management functions within national PA management agencies. 3. A PAMP Adviser has been contracted and development of a PACS and PAMP are in progress in order to fulfil this project goal. Covid-19 pandemic since March 2020 with associated border closures has severely delayed the progress of this PAMP work, with TA working remotely. That being said, full efforts are now underway towards this project goal 4. Legislative review and policy identify appropriate mechanisms for coordination and management of protected areas by end of project is currently underway and expected by end of project. This is being conducted as part of the PAMP Adviser role. There is good acknowledgment between key agencies that, whilst each agency has a role to play in PAM, more consolidated and organized management is required for enhance effectiveness 5. Management plans for at least 15 protected area sites under implementation by end of project is unlikely to be achieved by end of project and will form part of the exit strategy. 6. By end of project: 6.1.40% of terrestrial area of Southern Group islands is managed as Protected Areas (protected natural areas, community conservation areas, ra’ui sites). This target has therefore been achieved. 6.2 115.9% of marine area of Southern Group islands is managed as Protected Areas (protected natural areas, community conservation areas, ra’ui sites). This target has therefore been achieved. 7. By end of project: 7.1 The TCA management plan has been finalised and provides clear guidelines for future management efforts; this should reach the project target score by terminal evaluation. 7.2 No progress has been made towards the Cloud Forest as this is much more complex than expressed in the project design, with traditional land tenure, uninvestigated land, multiple land owning families, traditional leaders, etc. It will remain a goal for NES to establish, but given this wasn’t initiated at the start of the project it requires much more time. Final METT score unlikely to differ unless captured within the PAM policy above. 7.3 Manuae is progressing with rangers now built into the organizational structure for NES beyond the project, demonstrating commitment, legacy and sustainability. The landowners committee is being legally updated at present to ensure all is in order for representatives. Once this is done further measures can be progressed, such as rat eradication measures to support native bird species, etc. The Aitutaki Island Council (including Manuae) is also progressing with updated regulations under the Environment Act, which will afford greater legal protection to Manuae than at present. 7.4.Mokoero is in the final stages of its terrestrial assessment and survey report being finalised, which will support management decisions and should increase the METT score. 7.5 Takutea is in the same position as Mokoero above. 8. An international consultant has been contracted by MMR to drive this activity in response to recommendations of the CNA report. Multi-stakeholder consultations on Aitutaki will continue over the coming months led by MMR to help finalise the drafting of this report by the consultant. Covid-19 has significantly delayed progress of this activity with ongoing restrictions in international and domestic travel 9. By end of project: 9.1. Covid-19 impacts on non-government funding are highly significant. Many sustainable financing mechanisms were previously based around eco-tourism, which is the main industry to be impacted by the global pandemic and associated border closures, resulting in zero tourists. Despite the reduction in eco-tourism contributions to non-government budget allocations, there are still other external funding allocations, such as those from some NGO’s and community groups, as well as other donor funding to Marae Moana from the likes of ADB, Seacology, Nia Tero and Conservation International. These are likely to ensure that this target has been met, but will be quantified for terminal evaluation. 9.2. The economic response to Covid-19 has drastically affected government allocations in all areas, including for protected areas. We are confident that government allocations for 2020/21 still exceed this target amount, despite budget cuts. The main sources of such funding are directed through NES for the management of Suwarrow National Park (NZ$150,000), rangers for Manuae that have been included in the organizational structure for NES (NZ$70,000), central support through Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) for MMCO (NZ$100,000), and annual budget for MMR all of which is directed towards marine resource management within Marae Moana (amount tbc). Collectively these government budget allocations will surpass the target 10. Nearshore surveys of all Southern Group islands has been completed by MMR, with results published in associated reports that are now available. These are a great tool that provide good updated data on many aspects, such as invertebrates, coral health, fish densities, etc. Additionally, MMR have conducted activities to reduce reef fish harvest pressure as well as to improve coral reef habitats. However, this has been a poor indicator and forms part of poor project design, as the target does not directly align with its indicator, due to the fact that fish populations and live coral cover are not necessarily positively correlated. Many studies have shown finfish densities on coral reefs are correlated more with bathymetric rugosity and habitat complexity, rather than with live coral cover (MMR’s recent survey of Manihiki found similar results where the sites with the highest live coral cover had the lowest rugosity and the least number of finfish whereas the area with the lowest live coral cover had the highest rugosity and the highest number of finfish). For assessments of coral reef habitats, live coral cover is a better indicator than finfish populations. 11. By end of project: 11.1. and 11.2. Turtle population surveys, as measured by active turtle nests, were conducted on the islands of Takutea, Manuae and Palmerston by MMR. Takutea and Manuae were each surveyed twice and Palmerston once. All identified tracks belonged to green turtles. No hawksbill or loggerhead turtles were observed in Manuae, Takutea or Palmerston. Furthermore turtle monitoring workshops were held by NES with tourism operators to increase awareness about turtle species, their threatened status, how they can be identified in water and what can be done to support them and their habitats and provide role model behaviours to visitors. This consequently led to the establishment of a local turtle conservation NGO ‘Te Ara o te Onu’, who has taken over turtle monitoring, education and awareness activities. 11.3. Humphead wrasse recorded in healthy densities in Aitutaki during the 2017 Aitutaki and Manuae Marine Assessment. These densities were significant and near the highest densities recorded in published literature. MMR consulted with the world’s leading Napoleon wrasse expert who travelled to Aitutaki to observe these fish and provide advice on our assessments. project duration is insufficient time to record any trend in populations 11.4. The Atiu Swiftlet (locally called Kopeka) was estimated in 2016/17 as having good population numbers of around 600, surpassing the baseline figure. Whilst the survey techniques of this particular expedition have not been recorded, numbers are expected to be stable with no adverse effects currently identified to impact population numbers. Natural Heritage Trust are investigating the feasibility of translocating a small number of the population to another island within the Southern Group to provide an insurance population against any severe threatening events that may occur to the population in Atiu, such as diseases or cyclones. 11.5. The Mangaian Kingfisher (Tangaeo) was assessed in 2019 and numbers recorded exceeded the baseline population figures. Populations appear to be on the rise, which has been attributed to forest regeneration replacing previous pineapple plantations; this has increased the availability of suitable bird habitat. 11.6. The Rarotongan Monarch (Kakerori) has seen continual population increases, attributable in large part to extensive on-going predator control within the TCA community protected area. These results are captured within the TCA Management Plan produced under the project. 11.7. the Mitiaro Fan Palm (Iniao) was surveyed in 2019 using drone technology; this technique allows for more in-depth and accurate aerial surveying. These surveys found population numbers to be higher than the baseline as a result of more accurate counts as well as recent population growth Component 2: 1. 1.9million sq. km is covered by the project through the Marae Moana 2. 0.83 million sq. km. (Northern Group) as above in 1 3. Despite some discrepancies in baseline figures listed in the prodoc against those held at MOA, they have successfully demonstrated a reduction in fertilisers >15% (25% in value), and a total value much less than the baseline stated here. For pesticides there are again discrepancies in the baseline figures used, however a reduction in value of 13% has been achieved, which is hoped to reach the target of 15% reduction by project closure. 4. EIAs for infrastructure development in or around PAs being subject to independent review, and development plans are adapted as necessary to conserve biodiversity is not expected to be fully achieved by end of project and will form part of the project’s exit & sustainability strategy. Following a detailed gaps analysis report on permitting processes completed by the IW R2R Project, NES has been conducting an extensive review of its legislation (namely the Environment Act 2003) in order to address gaps, weaknesses and overlaps with other agencies. This includes the EIA process and governance. This legislative review process is ongoing and engaged in extensive consultation with a vast number of stakeholders, therefore it is anticipated to continue beyond the life of the project. However, this target is being captured within this review by amending the compositions of Island Environment Authorities (IEA’s) who approve EIAs, by enabling a higher level of technical expertise to be included. Securing this in legislation is a long-term and enforceable solution to ensuring biodiversity is fully considered in the EIA process, particularly in key areas such as PAs. 5. No decline in forest cover by the end of the project from a baseline of 13,245 hectares of natural forested area is expected to be achieved. 6. Whilst water quality testing has been routinely conducted throughout the life of R2R in collaborative efforts between MMR & NES, measures to control pollution were not directly implemented in these same areas. Consequently, whilst water quality may have improved in 5 areas (with an additional site showing no increase or decrease in water quality), this target is unlikely to be fully achieved as little direct management was implemented at these sites. However, Erosion and Sediment Control Guidelines have been produced under Infrastructure Cook Islands as part of the IW R2R project in 2019. NES is now looking to integrate these into the Environment policy as part of the Environment Act review that is currently underway and mentioned above. This will result in sustainability beyond the life of the project; there will be enhanced governance frameworks to support the management of this issue, resulting in impactful change despite this indicator not being directly achieved. 7. No increase in algal levels on coral reefs by end of project has not been fully achieved and is not expected to be achieved by end of project. Whilst monitoring programs are in place on coral reefs around Rarotonga and Aitutaki, we cannot demonstrate that algal levels have declined 8. At least 40 tourism businesses are implementing BD management programs that comply with conservation guidelines developed through the project and included in national accreditation system. This target has therefore been achieved and surpassed. The Mana Tiaki Eco Certification program (MTEC) developed under the project in 2018 is now being widely implemented within the tourism industry, with over 40 businesses signing up in its first year. The Sustainable Tourism Adviser (STA) was contracted this quarter to review the MTEC criteria, particularly the biodiversity component, and assess how this can be further strengthened and applied to the industry. A draft report of this has recently been received and will be finalised in the coming quarter ready for terminal evaluation. 9. At least 20 projects by tourism operators that support biodiversity conservation (e.g. creating Ra’ui sites / CCAs; coral gardens; beach clean-up; sponsored species conservation, etc.) are operating by the end of the project. This target has therefore been achieved and surpassed. End of Project Targets Project Objective: 1. 1.1 million sq. km. of CIMP legally designated and actively managed, with dedicated staff implementing planning and coordination of the entire CIMP by end of year 2 2. By end of project: 2.1. 6 islands totalling 15,110 ha. 2.2. 6 islands totalling 16,174 ha. 3. Water quality improved through small demonstrations and monitoring mechanisms in place for project related indicators Component 1: 1. METT score > 60 by end of project 2. By end of project: 2.1. 70% 2.2. 70% 2.3. 70% 3. Protected and Managed Areas Act drafted and enacted by end of year 2; detailed regulations for resource restrictions and PA management enacted by end of project 4. Marae Moana Office undertaking coordinated management of protected areas by end of project 5. Management plans for at least 15 protected area sites under implementation by end of project 6. By end of project: 6.1. 6.7% 6.2 12.3% 7. By end of project: 7.1 METT score >70 7.2 METT score >50 7.3 METT score >40 7.4.METT score >50 7.5 METT score >50 8. Aitutaki Lagoon Master Plan in place, with conservation zoning, goals and targets 9. By end of project: 9.1. US$523,800 9.2. US$148,750 10. No decrease in finfish populations by end of project 11. By end of project: 11.1. No net decline in population 11.2. No net decline in population 11.3. No net decline in population 11.4. No net decline in population 11.5. No net decline in population 11.6. No net decline in population 11.7. No net decline in population 11.8. No net decline in forested area Component 2: 1. 1.1 million sq. km. (CIMP) 2. 0.83 million sq. km. (Northern Group) 3. At least 15% reduction in value of imports of agricultural chemicals by the end of the project 4. EIAs for infrastructure development in or around PAs are subject to independent review, and development plans are adapted as necessary to conserve biodiversity 5. No decline in forest cover by the end of the project 6. At least 10 sites within CIMP where water quality will be improved through measures to control water pollution and sedimentation (from agriculture or other sources) 7. No increase in algal levels on coral reefs by end of project 8. At least 20 tourism businesses are implementing BD management programs that comply with conservation guidelines developed through the project and included in national accreditation system 9. At least 15 projects operating by the end of the project XM-DAC-41114-PROJECT-00143532 United Nations Development Programme SDG Joint Programme - UNDP will support the Government of the Cook Islands in developing innovative and sustainable policy and digital solutions to catalyse post-COVI recovery and resilience- building United Nations Development Programme UNITED NATIONS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME MPTF-Joint SDG Fund registry.ws@undp.org https://www.undp.org/samoa Cook Islands UNDP as the Implementing Partner will comply with the policies, procedures and practices of the United Nations Security Management System (UNSMS.) Social and environmental sustainability will be enhanced through application of the UNDP Social and Environmental Standards (http://www.undp.org/ses) and related Accountability Mechanism (http://www.undp.org/secu-srm). XM-DAC-41114-OUTPUT-00131649 United Nations Development Programme The Joint program aims to strengthen Cook Islands’ capabilities to use digitalization to accelerate the achievement of the SDGs. The programme will therefore draw on the development and implementation of a multisectoral national digital strategy to improve (1) agriculture productivity and the local agri-food system value chains, (2) disaster resilience and food security, and (3) nutrition. This joint program responds to the objectives of the country’s 2030 Economic Development Strategy for impro United Nations Development Programme MPTF-Joint SDG Fund registry.ws@undp.org https://www.undp.org/samoa Cook Islands Cook Islands semi-independent political entity -21.248420 -159.785160 Building resilience Global COVID-19 54784 129199 61261 95230 -420 United Nations Development Programme 55296 United Nations Development Programme 689 United Nations Development Programme 14412 United Nations Development Programme 4247 United Nations Development Programme 14212 United Nations Development Programme 8605 United Nations Development Programme 1645 United Nations Development Programme 6852 United Nations Development Programme 6620 United Nations Development Programme 17204 United Nations Development Programme 8630 United Nations Development Programme 454 United Nations Development Programme 5089 United Nations Development Programme 33751 United Nations Development Programme 13175 United Nations Development Programme 190460 MPTF-Joint SDG Fund United Nations Development Programme 245665 United Nations Development Programme UNDP as the Implementing Partner will comply with the policies, procedures and practices of the United Nations Security Management System (UNSMS.) Social and environmental sustainability will be enhanced through application of the UNDP Social and Environmental Standards (http://www.undp.org/ses) and related Accountability Mechanism (http://www.undp.org/secu-srm). Evidence Based, Gender and Disability Sensitive Multisectoral National Digital Strategy developed Gender Sensitive Multi-year National Strategy Digital Strategy implementation plan, budget, and M&E Framework developed