Attachment J.8-LAC-IEE-22-16 ETD (CO - Destination Nature Activity).pdf

LAC/COLOMBIA/DESTINATION NATURE ACTIVITY

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL

EXAMINATION

PROJECT/ACTIVITY DATA

Project/Activity Name: Destination Nature Activity Geographic Location(s) (Country/Region): USAID/Colombia/LAC Amendment (Yes/No), if Yes indicate # (1, 2...): No Implementation Start/End Date (FY or M/D/Y): FY 2022 – FY2026 If Amended, specify New End Date: N/A Solicitation/Contract/Award Number(s): TBD Implementing Partner(s): TBD Bureau Tracking ID: LAC-IEE-22-16 Tracking ID of related Programmatic IEE: N/A Tracking ID of Other, Related Analyses: N/A

ORGANIZATIONAL/ADMINISTRATIVE DATA

Implementing Operating Unit(s):

(e.g. Mission or Bureau or Office)

COLOMBIA/Environment Office

Other Affected Operating Unit(s): N/A Lead BEO Bureau: LAC Funding Account(s) (if available): ES-514 FY 2019-2023

DV-514 FY 2020-2023

Original Funding Amount: $30 million If Amended, specify funding amount: N/A If Amended, specify new funding total: N/A Prepared by: Juan Pablo Vallejo Date Prepared: 08/16/2021

ENVIRONMENTAL COMPLIANCE REVIEW DATA

Analysis Type: ☒Environmental Examination ☒Deferral Environmental Determination(s): ☒Categorical Exclusion(s)

☒Negative ☐Positive ☒Deferred (per 22 CFR 216.3(a)(7)(iv)

IEE Expiration Date (if applicable): FY 2026 Additional Analyses/Reporting Required: ☒EMMP/EMMR Climate Risks Identified (#): Low _20_____ Moderate ___0___ High __10____ Climate Risks Addressed (#): Low _20_____ Moderate ___0___ High __10____ about:blank about:blank

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

THRESHOLD DETERMINATION AND SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

ACTIVITY SUMMARY

Colombia’s tremendous biodiversity offers an enormous market opportunity for nature tourism, especially in PDET regions1. Yet, 55 percent of the population in PDET regions live in poverty and have a long history of state abandonment2, and rural and ethnic communities face increasing pressure to engage in illicit and unsustainable economic activities that lead to ecosystem degradation. Despite being recognized as a top trending tourist destination worldwide because of its natural and cultural assets, Colombia has a low tourism competitiveness score that affects the country´s nature-based tourism potential, explained by factors like the low quality of services, human resources, and infrastructure.

The Destination Nature Activity will build sustainable business models for Colombia's nature tourism3 that support community development, conserve the country's rich biodiversity, and reduce drivers of land use change. To achieve this, the Activity´s objectives are i) to develop the market for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations and ii) to improve evidence-based governance and coordination of sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations.

USAID/Colombia’s theory of change linking the Activity objectives with the intended outcome is that if the market for sustainable nature tourism is developed, and governance of sustainable nature tourism destinations is improved, then communities will use nature tourism as a sustainable development tool to generate income, conserve biodiversity, and reduce land use change drivers.

The sustainable nature tourism business models developed by this Activity will support USAID’s efforts to expand licit livelihood opportunities and promote more competitive licit economies, aligning with the CDCS’ 2020-2025 Development Objective 3 “Promote Equitable and Environmentally Sustainable Economic Growth” and Intermediate Results 3.1 “Expanded Licit Livelihood Opportunities” and 3.2 “More Competitive Licit Economies” as well with CDCS’ Development Objective 2 “Strengthened governance to meet citizen needs and increase citizen confidence in the state” and Intermediate Result 2.2 “Greater citizen engagement in governance processes”. The Activity will also contribute with the CDCS’ Performance Management Plan, particularly with Target No. 11 “Environmental sustainability increases by 15% in the target geography by 2025” from the basket of strategic targets.

The Destination Nature Activity objective is to build sustainable business models for nature tourism in Colombia. However, a Deferral was issued because we do not know at this stage the geography and specific work that will be supported in protected areas. If, in any case, the Activity develops sub-activities that might be considered high negative impact tourism, or involves interventions related to rehabilitation of roads, installation of high impact systems or equipment

1 PDET refers to Planes de Desarrollo con Enfoque Territorial, Spanish for Territorial Focused Development Plans 2 Peace, Stability and Prosperity. Country Development Cooperation Strategy 2020-2025. USAID. 2020 3 This document adopts the concept of sustainable nature tourism combining the definitions by the Government of Colombia of sustainable tourism and nature tourism. Sustainable tourism is a type of tourism that takes into consideration current and future

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

and other similar interventions in protected areas, a Positive Determination may be issued and require a scoping statement. The MEO, REA and BEO will review the specific case to see if there is enough site-specific information to keep the Negative Determination or issue a Positive Determination. The estimated timeframe to have additional information available to do the analysis and define the detailed sub-activities and expected outcomes in protected areas, if any, is approximately 12 months after award.

The Activity will focus primarily in PDET regions with demonstrated potential for sustainable nature tourism4 and where it this is a valid strategy to promote community development, biodiversity conservation and to reduce land use change drivers. As part of the monitoring efforts, the Activity will develop a robust set of contextual indicators that will flag political, environmental, and security concerns and track trends at the national and local level, thus enabling the Activity to adapt if conditions require.

ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATIONS

Upon approval of this document, the determinations become affirmed, per Agency regulations

(22 CFR 216).

TABLE 1: ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATIONS

Projects/Activities Categorical Exclusion Citation (if applicable)

Negative Determination

Positive Determination5

Deferral6

ACTIVITY: DESTINATION NATURE

Objective 1: Develop the market for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations Intermediate Results:

IR 1.1 Strengthened sustainable nature tourism supply chains in targeted destinations, through capacity building and training programs and greater appropriation of digital technologies and business formalization processes.

§216.2(c)(2)(i) Education, technical assistance, or training programs except to the extent such programs include activities directly affecting the environment (such as construction of facilities, etc.)

§216.2(c)(2)(iii) Analyses, studies, academic or research workshops and meetings

4 Potential determined by the existence of natural attractions whose conservation is a priority; the presence of nature tourism supply chain actors; the existence of nature tourism governance, planning, and institutional mechanisms;

stable security conditions; and the potential for domestic and international tourism demand 5 Positive Determinations require preparation of a Scoping Statement and Environmental Assessment.

6 Deferrals must be cleared through an Amendment to this IEE prior to implementation of any deferred activities.

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

IR 1.2. Increased travel demand for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations through communication and marketing strategies.

§216.2(c)(2)(i) Education, technical assistance, or training programs except to the extent such programs include activities directly affecting the environment (such as construction of facilities, etc.)

§216.2(c)(2)(iii) Analyses, studies, academic or research workshops and meetings

§216.2(c)(2)(v) Document and information transfers

IR 1.3 Improved public goods and services and productive infrastructure for sustainable nature tourism.

This may include small-scale public and private tourism related infrastructure like internet connectivity, rehabilitation of tertiary roads, trails, boardwalks, visitor centers, installation of renewable energy, etc.

Environmental impacts may be a result of small-scale construction activities and/or the increase of nature tourism without proper planning and management.

§216.2(c)(2)(i) Education, technical assistance, or training programs except to the extent such programs include activities directly affecting the environment (such as construction of facilities, etc.)

§216.2(c)(2)(iii) Analyses, studies, academic or research workshops and meetings

X ☐ X

Objective 2: Improve evidence-based governance and coordination of sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations

IR 2.1 Increased use of data and information to plan, manage, and monitor nature tourism results, through information systems that collect and analyze data

§216.2(c)(2)(i) Education, technical assistance, or training programs except to the extent such programs include activities

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

for improving management of nature tourism destinations and assess its performance towards biodiversity conservation.

directly affecting the environment (such as construction of facilities, etc.)

§216.2(c)(2)(iii) Analyses, studies, academic or research workshops and meetings

§216.2(c)(2)(v) Document and information transfers

IR 2.2 Strengthened government capacities to plan, manage and monitor nature tourism by assessing technical and financial abilities of regional and local authorities and by providing technical assistance to national government stakeholders.

§216.2(c)(2)(i) Education, technical assistance, or training programs except to the extent such programs include activities directly affecting the environment (such as construction of facilities, etc.)

§216.2(c)(2)(iii) Analyses, studies, academic or research workshops and meetings

§216.2(c)(2)(v) Document and information transfer

IR 2.3 Increased coordination among nature tourism and conservation stakeholders by fostering and strengthening functional coordination arrangements with private and public stakeholders for improved planning, investment and management of tourism destinations.

§216.2(c)(2)(i) Education, technical assistance, or training programs except to the extent such programs include activities directly affecting the environment (such as construction of facilities, etc.)

§216.2(c)(2)(iii) Analyses, studies, academic or research workshops and meetings

§216.2(c)(2)(v) Document and

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information transfer

CLIMATE RISK MANAGEMENT

This section summarizes the methodology used and findings of the CRM Screening, in accordance with ADS 201mal. The Destination Nature Activity design team, in consultation with the CIL, considered the potential effect of climate risks/stressors on the sustainability of the Activity (changing precipitation patterns, rising temperature, floods, droughts, fires, landslides, etc.) in addition to the impact of activities on the climate (increased greenhouse gas emissions, land use changes, etc.). See Annex 1 for the complete CRM table.

The Destination Nature activity, will contribute to strengthening Community Based Organizations (CBO) and Local Businesses (CBO/LB) in selected destinations to control further deforestation, through the development of nature tourism business models as a sustainable tool to generate income, conserve biodiversity, and reduce land use change drivers. The actions to be developed under the activity are identified mainly as low and high risks in terms of climate risk management.

Activities that were identified as high risk are related to the development of small-scale infrastructure for sustainable nature tourism services due to potential environmental implications in habitat loss, soil and water impacts, waste management and worker health and safety, and climate risks related to infrastructure vulnerability, disruption in services and access, and loss of commodities and land structural soundness due to extreme climate events. Environmental impacts may be a result of small-scale construction activities and/or the increase of nature tourism without proper planning and management.

The activity is not expected to generate any significant greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, the tools that will be developed will also enable local authorities, communities, and CBO/LBs to use nature tourism to reduce land-based greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, conserve biodiversity and enhance social and economic development. Ongoing monitoring will ensure that implementation of project activities does not increase greenhouse emissions. Please find in Annex 1 the Climate Risk Management for the project.

Please find the Climate Risk Management in Section 4.2 the project and the illustrative mitigation measures that will address the main climate risks identified. The mitigation measures presented in this section constitute the minimum required based on available information at the time of the IEE. These measures shall provide general direction for completing the Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Plan (EMMP) and/or the EA and PERSUAP, if required.

BEO SPECIFIED CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL

Conditions for approval are listed in Section 5 of this document. Additionally, the Environmental Threshold Determination of Sub-activity 1.3 (Improved public goods and services and productive infrastructure for sustainable nature tourism) is a Deferral if in any case the Activity develops sub-activities that might be considered high negative impact tourism, or involves interventions related to rehabilitation of roads, installation of high impact systems or equipment and other similar interventions in protected areas, therefore:

• The responsible Operating Unit will ensure the required environmental review and IEE amendment is completed in the timeframe designated herein and approved by the cognizant BEO before subject activities are implemented.

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

• If the required environmental review cannot be completed in the designated time frame, an amendment will be prepared and approved with justification and with a revised time frame.

• The responsible Operating Unit will ensure that appropriate language to carry out the requirements of this deferral are incorporated into relevant award documents, including requirements relating to development of the IEE or EA. Relevant award language shall ensure that implementation plans will be modified in accordance with the environmental review.

• The responsible Operating Unit will (i) ensure an irreversible commitment of resources will be avoided until the environmental review is completed, and (ii) ensure appropriate environmental reviews are completed for incremental funding actions as subprojects/sub activities or aspects of projects/activities are identified.

For sub-activities with a ‘Deferral’ determination, additional information will be available to do the analysis and define the detailed sub-activities and expected outcomes in protected areas approximately 12 months after awarded. A further environmental review and IEE amendment will be completed, to develop a scoping statement or keep the sub-activity as Negative Determination.

IMPLEMENTATION

In accordance with 22 CFR 216 and Agency policy, the conditions and requirements of this document become mandatory upon approval. This includes the relevant limitations, conditions and requirements in this document as stated in Sections 3, 4, and 5 of the IEE and any BEO Specified Conditions of Approval.

This activity will be implemented by a contractor, possibly comprising a consortium of actors, and will be awarded through a full and open competition procurement process. The Destination Nature Activity will be implemented through a contract and USAID/Colombia will designate a Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR).

USAID APPROVAL OF IEE

For the following activities and Bureau Tracking ID:

1. LAC-IEE-22-15 Golden Land/Tierra Dorada (IEE).

2. LAC-IEE-22-16 Destination Nature activity (IEE).

3. LAC-IEE-22-17 Reactive Action activity (SIEE).

4. LAC-IEE-22-18 Economic Integration in Migrant Receptor Communities activity (IEE).

Approval:

Clearance:

LAC/USAID COLOMBIA

Digitally signed by Christopher

Christopher Saenger Saenger

Date: 2021.10.04 16:41:18-05'00'

Christopher Saenger, Acting Deputy Mission Director

USAID 216 RCE TEMPLATE VERSION 2, APRIL 2018

l'iJ Ir- Lf Date

Date

Jessica Rosen Digitally signed by Jessica Rosen Date: 2021.10.04 12:23:33 -05'00'

Maria Santana Digitally signed by Maria Santana Date: 2021.10.04 12:05:29 -05'00'

LAC-IEE-22-16

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL

EXAMINATION

CONTENTS

1.0 PROJECT/ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION 10

1.1 PURPOSE OF the IEE 10

1.2 PROJECT/ACTIVITY OVERVIEW 10

2.0 BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION 13

2.1 LOCATIONS AFFECTED AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT (ENVIRONMENT,

PHYSICAL, CLIMATE, SOCIAL, Threatened and ENDANGERED species) 14

2.3 COUNTRY/MINISTRY/MUNICIPALITY ENVIRONMENTAL CAPACITY ANALYSIS

(AS APPROPRIATE) 14

3.0 ANALYSIS OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL RISK 15

-4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATIONS 16

4.1 RECOMMENDED ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATIONS 16

4.2 CLIMATE RISK MANAGEMENT 19

5.0 CONDITIONS AND MITIGATION MEASURES 19

5.1 CONDITIONS 19

5.2 AGENCY CONDITIONS 20

5.3 MITIGATION MEASURES 21

6.0 LIMITATIONS OF THIS INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION 24

7.0 REVISIONS 24

ATTACHMENTS: 24

Activity Climate Risk Management Summary Table 25

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

1.0 PROJECT/ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION

1.1 PURPOSE OF THE IEE

The purpose of this document, in accordance with Title 22, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 216 (22 CFR 216), is to provide a preliminary review of the reasonably foreseeable effects on the environment of the USAID intervention described herein and recommend determinations and, as appropriate, conditions, for these activities. Upon approval, these determinations become affirmed, and specified conditions become mandatory obligations of implementation.

This IEE also documents the results of the Climate Risk Management process in accordance with USAID policy (specifically, ADS 201mal).

Potential environmental impacts should be addressed through formal environmental mitigation and monitoring plans (EMMPs) and/or other measures as described in Section 5.

1.2 PROJECT/ACTIVITY OVERVIEW

USAID/Colombia’s Destination Nature Activity’s purpose is to build sustainable business models for Colombia's nature tourism that support community development, conserve the country's rich biodiversity, and reduce drivers of land use change; the Destination Nature Activity will work in PDET regions of Colombia to (1) develop the market for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations and (2) improve evidence-based governance and coordination of sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations. This is an integrated activity designed to contribute to Colombian development by strengthening social cohesion, responsive governance, and environmentally sustainable economic development. The Activity is based on the premise that if the market for sustainable nature tourism is developed, and governance of sustainable nature tourism destinations is improved, then communities will use nature tourism as a sustainable development tool to generate income, conserve biodiversity, and reduce land use change drivers.

The sustainable nature tourism business models developed by this Activity will support USAID’s efforts to expand licit livelihood opportunities and promote more competitive licit economies, aligning with the CDCS’ Development Objective 3 “Promote Equitable and Environmentally Sustainable Economic Growth” and Intermediate Results 3.1 “Expanded Licit Livelihood Opportunities” and 3.2 “More Competitive Licit Economies” as well with CDCS’ Development Objective 2 “Strengthened governance to meet citizen needs and increase citizen confidence in the state” and Intermediate Result 2.2 “Greater citizen engagement in governance processes”.

The Activity will also contribute with the CDCS’ Performance Management Plan, particularly with Target No. 11 “Environmental sustainability increases by 15% in the target geography by 2025” from the basket of strategic targets.

The activity also supports Colombia’s Journey to Self-Reliance (J2SR) by promoting local ownership and leveraging local resources and expertise. This activity will contribute to several key issues for USAID including youth, gender and women’s empowerment, local actors, and private sector engagement.

The Destination Nature Activity objective is to build sustainable business models for nature tourism in Colombia. However, a Deferral was issued because we do not know at this stage the geography and specific work that will be supported in protected areas. If, in any case, the Activity develops sub-activities that might be considered high negative impact tourism, or involves interventions related to rehabilitation of roads, installation of high impact systems or equipment and other similar interventions in protected areas, a Positive Determination may be issued and https://www.usaid.gov/our_work/environment/compliance/22cfr216 https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/200/201mal

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

require a scoping statement. The MEO, REA and BEO will review the specific case to see if there is enough site-specific information to keep the Negative Determination or issue a Positive Determination. The estimated timeframe to have additional information available to do the analysis and define the detailed sub-activities and expected outcomes in protected areas, if any, is approximately 12 months after award.

The Activity will focus primarily in PDET regions with demonstrated potential for sustainable nature tourism7 and where it this is a valid strategy to promote community development, biodiversity conservation and to reduce land use change drivers. As part of the monitoring efforts, the Activity will develop a robust set of contextual indicators that will flag political, environmental, and security concerns and track trends at the national and local level, thus enabling the Activity to adapt if conditions require.

1.3 PROJECT/ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION

Colombia’s tremendous biodiversity offers an enormous market opportunity for nature tourism, especially in PDET regions. Yet, 55 percent of the population in PDET regions live in poverty and have a long history of state abandonment, and rural and ethnic communities face increasing pressure to engage in illicit and unsustainable economic activities that lead to ecosystem degradation. Despite being recognized as a top trending tourist destination worldwide because of its natural and cultural assets, Colombia has a low tourism competitiveness score that affects the country´s nature-based tourism potential, explained by factors like the low quality of services, human resources, and infrastructure.

The Destination Nature Activity will build sustainable business models for Colombia's nature tourism that support community development, conserve the country's rich biodiversity, and reduce drivers of land use change.

Concerning the objective of developing the market for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations, the Activity will work on the achievement of the following Intermediate Results:

IR 1.1) Strengthen sustainable nature tourism supply chains in targeted destinations, through capacity building and training programs for CBO/LBs that expands their capabilities to provide high-quality services to increase tourism’s competitiveness. The Activity will also foster greater appropriation of digital and online technologies and business formalization processes that improve the quality of services provided and greater access to financial services.

IR 1.2) Increase travel demand for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations, through the implementation of communication and marketing strategies that target national and

7 Potential determined by the existence of natural attractions whose conservation is a priority; the presence of nature tourism supply chain actors; the existence of nature tourism governance, planning, and institutional mechanisms;

stable security conditions; and the potential for domestic and international tourism demand

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

international tourists and highlight the destinations’ level of biodiversity conservation, cultural richness, and its sustainable tourism model.

IR 1.3) Improve public goods and services and productive infrastructure for the development of sustainable nature tourism services including small-scale public infrastructure like internet connectivity and rehabilitation of tertiary roads, as well as third party improvements like renewable energy systems (in close collaboration with the Energy for Peace Activity), trails, boardwalks, bridges, viewpoints, visitor centers, and/or other destination-specific investments. These types of investments are necessary to consolidate the Activity’s IR 1.1 that envisages the improvement of the nature tourism supply chain from a human, technical and financial perspective. Investments are expected to improve the quality of tourism services, support the development of conservation-related activities in each targeted destination and foster greater engagement from national and international visitors. The Activity will provide technical assistance necessary to utilize, manage and maintain small scale infrastructure appropriately, and manage the environmental and climate risks identified. Environmental impacts may be a result of small-scale construction activities and/or the increase of nature tourism without proper planning and management.

Regarding the objective of improving evidence-based governance and coordination of sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations, the Activity will have the following IRs:

IR 2.1) Increase use of data and information to plan, manage, and monitor nature tourism results, through information systems that collect and analyze data for improving management of nature tourism destinations in terms of biodiversity conservation, reduced deforestation or land degradation, community benefits, and economic development. This IR includes the implementation of a capacity building process (as part of IR 1.1) that improves CBO/LBs and local governments abilities to monitor relevant nature tourism indicators and a technical improvement program for institutions from the Government of Colombia (GOC) in charge of implementing information management plans within the National Sustainable Tourism Policy 2020-2030.

IR 2.2) Strengthen government capacity to plan, manage and monitor nature tourism, by assessing technical and financial abilities of regional and local authorities and by providing technical assistance to national government stakeholders that increases the incorporation of social economic and conservation development objectives in the planning and management of nature tourism activities. Under this IR, the Activity will also provide technical assistance to the national government on how to regulate the tourist industry under the new Tourism Law 2068/2020 and the Sustainable Tourism Policy of 2020, and to subnational governments on how to effectively implement these regulations.

IR 2.3) Increase coordination among nature tourism and conservation stakeholders by fostering and strengthening functional coordination arrangements with private and public stakeholders for improved planning, investment and management of tourism destinations. These venues will promote the participation of stakeholders involved in nature tourism destination management, including CBO/LB, to address conflict resolution, investment planning, tourism attraction prioritization, and negotiation with national and international stakeholders.

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TABLE 2: DEFINED OR ILLUSTRATIVE ACTIVITIES AND SUB-ACTIVITIES

Objective 1 — Develop the market for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations Intermediate Results 1.1 Strengthened sustainable nature tourism supply chains in targeted destinations through capacity building and training programs and greater appropriation of digital technologies and business formalization processes.

Intermediate Results 1.2. Increased travel demand for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations through communication and marketing strategies.

Intermediate Results 1.3 Improved public goods and services and productive infrastructure for sustainable nature tourism This may include small-scale public and private tourism related infrastructure like internet connectivity, rehabilitation of tertiary roads, trails, boardwalks, visitor centers, installation of renewable energy. Environmental impacts may be a result of small-scale construction activities and/or the increase of nature tourism without proper planning and management.

Objective 2 — Improve evidence-based governance and coordination of sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations Intermediate Results 2.1 Increased use of data and information to plan, manage, and monitor nature tourism results through information systems that collect and analyze data for improving management of nature tourism destinations and assess its performance towards biodiversity conservation.

Intermediate Results 2.2. Strengthened government capacities to plan, manage and monitor nature tourism by assessing technical and financial capacities of regional and local authorities to plan, implement and monitor tourism activities and providing technical assistance to national government stakeholders.

Intermediate Results 2.3 Increased coordination among nature tourism and conservation stakeholders by fostering and strengthening functional coordination arrangements with private and public stakeholders for improved planning, investment and management of tourism destinations.

Will this activity involve construction8 as defined by ADS 201 and 303? Yes ☒ No ☐

The activity may include the development of small-scale infrastructure to improve tourism services, such as internet connectivity, rehabilitation of tertiary roads, trails, boardwalks, visitor centers, installation of renewable energy. No major construction activities will be conducted.

Environmental impacts may be a result of small-scale construction activities and/or the increase of nature tourism without proper planning and management.

2.0 BASELINE ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION

Although we do not know at this stage the exact location of municipalities and receptor communities to be supported, in order to ensure alignment with the Mission’s CDCS, the Destination Nature Activity will be implemented in rural areas of Colombia. Work will also be done in protected areas.

8 Construction, as defined by ADS 201 and 303, includes: construction, alteration, or repair (including dredging and excavation) of buildings, structures, or other real property and includes, without limitation, improvements, renovation, alteration and refurbishment. The term includes, without limitation, roads, power plants, buildings, bridges, water treatment facilities, and vertical structures. In the box below, describe any construction planned for this project/activity. Refer to ADS 201maw for required Construction Risk Management procedures.

https://www.usaid.gov/sites/default/files/documents/1865/201maw.pdf

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

Based on illustrative categories of the intervention above, we can make the following general assumptions:

a) Protect ecologically sensitive ecosystems, such as wetlands, tropical forest, freshwater and other ecosystems of the Amazon region.

b) Conserve and protect existing forests.

c) Ensure that sites are in safe (or less vulnerable) areas to landslides, floods, fires, frosts, etc.

d) Respect land uses, as well as river management plans, defined by local authorities.

e) Local communities, entities and sectors will be consulted and will have an active participation.

f) Obtain all legal permits/licenses required by appropriate authorities.

g) Avoid burning.

h) Avoid and/or control modifying or affecting the hydrological network.

i) Avoid felling trees and/or extracting fauna.

j) Site the activities in previously-disturbed areas, with low vegetation, instead of opening or deforesting new ones.

k) Conduct prior consultation to ensure the level of free, prior and informed consent, for cases when Indigenous Peoples may be affected [reference to the USAID's Policy on Promoting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (Pro-IP Policy)].

l) Carry out monitoring periodically to examine the impacts to land and use resources.

m) Management of protected areas, when appropriate.

n) Park rangers or eco-guides or similar are performing their duties with a human rights focus.

o) Design and implement a grievance and redress mechanism, when appropriate.

2.1 LOCATIONS AFFECTED AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT (ENVIRONMENT, PHYSICAL,

CLIMATE, SOCIAL, THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES)

Target areas will include rural areas where deforestation and environmental degradation are prevalent and illicit activities are driving deforestation. These areas are likely to include municipalities of the PDET zones (prioritized by the Government of Colombia and is aligned with the Mission’s CDCS), as well as parks and/or protected areas.

2.2 APPLICABLE AND APPROPRIATE PARTNER COUNTRY AND OTHER INTERNATIONAL

STANDARDS (E.G. WHO), ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL LAWS, POLICIES, AND REGULATIONS

The activities will follow national regulations defined by ICA, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ministry of Environment and Sustainable Development and USAID’s environmental regulations (22CFR216) and environmental procedures (ADS 204).

2.3 COUNTRY/MINISTRY/MUNICIPALITY ENVIRONMENTAL CAPACITY ANALYSIS (AS

APPROPRIATE)

The implementation of the Activity requires coordination with the departmental and municipal governments where the activity will take place as well as with regional environment authorities and where necessary because of overlap with national protected areas with the National Natural Park institution.

https://www.usaid.gov/indigenous-peoples/usaid-policy-on-indigenous-peoples https://www.usaid.gov/indigenous-peoples/usaid-policy-on-indigenous-peoples https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/200/204

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

3.0 ANALYSIS OF POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL RISK

PROJECT/ACTIVITY 1: DESTINATION NATURE ACTIVITY

TABLE 3A. POTENTIAL IMPACTS –

Project/Activity Potential environmental and social impacts Objective 1 — Develop the market for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations Intermediate results:

IR 1.1 Strengthened sustainable nature tourism supply chains in targeted destinations, through capacity building and training programs and greater appropriation of digital technologies and business formalization processes.

N/A

IR 1.2. Increased travel demand for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations through communication and marketing strategies.

N/A

IR 1.3 Improved public goods and services and productive infrastructure for sustainable nature tourism. This may include small-scale public and private tourism related infrastructure like internet connectivity, rehabilitation of tertiary roads, trails, boardwalks, visitor centers, installation of renewable energy, etc.

Environmental impacts may be a result of small-scale construction activities and/or the increase of nature tourism without proper planning and management.

● Habitat loss

● Air Pollution

● Public/Worker Health & Safety

● Socioeconomic Impacts

● Soil & Water Impacts

● Solid Waste Management & Disposal

Objective 2 — Improve evidence-based governance and coordination of sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations IR 2.1 Increased use of data and information to plan, manage, and monitor nature tourism results, through information systems that collect and analyze data for improving management of nature tourism destinations and assess its performance towards biodiversity conservation

N/A

IR 2.2 Strengthened government capacities to plan, manage and monitor nature tourism by assessing technical and financial capacities of regional and local

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

authorities to plan, implement and monitor tourism activities and providing technical assistance to national government stakeholders.

IR 2.3 Increased coordination among nature tourism and conservation stakeholders by fostering and strengthening functional coordination arrangements with private and public stakeholders for improved planning, investment and management of tourism destinations

N/A

4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATIONS

4.1 RECOMMENDED ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATIONS

The following table summarizes the recommended determinations based on the environmental analysis conducted. Upon approval, these determinations become affirmed, per 22 CFR 216.

Specified conditions, detailed in Section 5, become mandatory obligations of implementation, per

ADS 204.

TABLE 4: ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATIONS

Projects/Activities Categorical Exclusion Citation (if applicable)

Negative Determination

Positive Determination9

Deferral10

ACTIVITY: DESTINATION NATURE

Objective 1: Develop the market for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations Intermediate Results:

IR 1.1 Strengthened sustainable nature tourism supply chains in targeted destinations, through capacity building and training programs and greater appropriation of digital technologies and business formalization processes.

§216.2(c)(2)(i) Education, technical assistance, or training programs except to the extent such programs include activities directly affecting the environment (such as construction of facilities, etc.)

§216.2(c)(2)(iii) Analyses, studies, academic or research workshops and meetings

9 Positive Determinations require preparation of a Scoping Statement and Environmental Assessment.

10 Deferrals must be cleared through an Amendment to this IEE prior to implementation of any deferred activities.

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

IR 1.2. Increased travel demand for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations through communication and marketing strategies.

§216.2(c)(2)(i) Education, technical assistance, or training programs except to the extent such programs include activities directly affecting the environment (such as construction of facilities, etc.)

§216.2(c)(2)(iii) Analyses, studies, academic or research workshops and meetings

§216.2(c)(2)(v) Document and information transfers

IR 1.3 Improved public goods and services and productive infrastructure for sustainable nature tourism.

This may include small-scale public and private tourism related infrastructure like internet connectivity, rehabilitation of tertiary roads, trails, boardwalks, visitor centers, installation of renewable energy, etc.

Environmental impacts may be a result of small-scale construction activities and/or the increase of nature tourism without proper planning and management.

§216.2(c)(2)(i) Education, technical assistance, or training programs except to the extent such programs include activities directly affecting the environment (such as construction of facilities, etc.)

§216.2(c)(2)(iii) Analyses, studies, academic or research workshops and meetings

X ☐ X

Objective 2: Improve evidence-based governance and coordination of sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations

IR 2.1 Increased use of data and information to plan, manage, and monitor nature tourism results, through information systems that collect and analyze data

§216.2(c)(2)(i) Education, technical assistance, or training programs except to the extent such programs include activities

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for improving management of nature tourism destinations and assess its performance towards biodiversity conservation.

directly affecting the environment (such as construction of facilities, etc.)

§216.2(c)(2)(iii) Analyses, studies, academic or research workshops and meetings

§216.2(c)(2)(v) Document and information transfers

IR 2.2 Strengthened government capacities to plan, manage and monitor nature tourism by assessing technical and financial capacities of regional and local authorities to plan, implement and monitor tourism activities and providing technical assistance to national government stakeholders.

§216.2(c)(2)(i) Education, technical assistance, or training programs except to the extent such programs include activities directly affecting the environment (such as construction of facilities, etc.)

§216.2(c)(2)(iii) Analyses, studies, academic or research workshops and meetings

§216.2(c)(2)(v) Document and information transfer

IR 2.3 Increased coordination among nature tourism and conservation stakeholders by fostering and strengthening functional coordination arrangements with private and public stakeholders for improved planning, investment and management of tourism destinations.

§216.2(c)(2)(i) Education, technical assistance, or training programs except to the extent such programs include activities directly affecting the environment (such as construction of facilities, etc.)

§216.2(c)(2)(iii) Analyses, studies, academic or research workshops and meetings

§216.2(c)(2)(v) Document and information transfer

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

4.2 CLIMATE RISK MANAGEMENT

This section summarizes the methodology used and findings of the CRM Screening, in accordance with ADS 201mal. The project design team, in consultation with the CIL, considered the potential effect of climate risks/stressors on the sustainability of the project (changing precipitation patterns, rising temperature, floods, droughts, fires, landslides, etc.) in addition to the impact of project activities on the climate (increased greenhouse gas emissions, land use changes, etc.). See Annex 1 for the complete CRM table.

5.0 CONDITIONS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

5.1 CONDITIONS

The environmental determinations in this IEE are contingent upon full implementation of the following general implementation and monitoring requirements, as well as ADS 204 and other relevant requirements.

5.1.1 During Pre-Award:

5.1.1.1 Pre-Award Briefings: As feasible, the design team and/or the cognizant environmental officer(s) (e.g., MEO, REA, BEO) will provide a pre-award briefing for potential offerors on environmental compliance expectations/responsibilities at bidders’ conferences.

5.1.1.2 Solicitations: The design team, in coordination with the A/CO, will ensure solicitations include environmental compliance requirements and evaluation criteria. A/CO will ensure technical and cost proposal requirements include approach, staffing, and budget sufficient for complying with the terms of this IEE.

5.1.1.3 Awards: The A/COR, in coordination with the A/CO, will ensure that all awards and sub-awards include environmental compliance requirements.

5.1.2 During Post-Award:

5.1.2.1 Post-Award Briefings: The A/COR and/or the cognizant environmental officer(s) (e.g., MEO, REA, BEO) will provide post-award briefings for the IP on environmental compliance responsibilities.

5.1.2.3 Work Plans and Budgeting: The A/COR will ensure the IP integrates environmental compliance requirements in work plans and budgets to comply with requirements, including EMMP implementation and monitoring.

5.1.2.4 Staffing: The A/COR, in coordination with the IP, will ensure all awards have staffing capacity to implement environmental compliance requirements.

5.1.2.5 Records Management: The A/COR will maintain environmental compliance documents in the official project/activity file and upload records to the designated USAID environmental compliance database system.

5.1.2.6 Host Country Environmental Compliance: The A/COR will ensure the IP complies with applicable and appropriate host country environmental requirements unless https://www.usaid.gov/ads/policy/200/201mal

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otherwise directed in writing by USAID. However, in the case of a conflict between the host country and USAID requirements, the more stringent shall govern.

5.1.2.7 Work Plan Review: The A/COR will ensure the IP verifies, at least annually or when activities are added or modified, that activities remain with the scope of the IEE.

Activities outside of the scope of the IEE cannot be implemented until the IEE is amended.

5.1.2.8 IEE Amendment: If new activities are introduced or other changes to the scope of this IEE occur, an IEE Amendment will be required.

5.1.2.9 USAID Monitoring Oversight: The A/COR or designee, with the support of the cognizant environmental officer(s) (e.g., MEO, REA, BEO), will ensure monitoring of compliance with established requirements (e.g., by desktop reviews, site visits, etc.).

5.1.2.10 Environmental Compliance Mitigation and Monitoring Plan: The A/COR will ensure the IP develops, obtains approval for, and implements Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Plans (EMMPs) that are responsive to the stipulated environmental compliance requirements.

5.1.2.11 Environmental Compliance Reporting: The A/COR will ensure the IP includes environmental compliance in regular project/activity reports, using indicators as appropriate; develops and submits the Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Reports (EMMRs); and completes and submits a Record of Compliance (RoC) describing their implementation of EMMP requirements in conjunction with the final EMMR or at the close of sub activities (as applicable). And where required by Bureaus or Missions, ensure the IP prepares a closeout plan consistent with contract documentation for A/COR review and approval that outlines responsibilities for end-of-project operation, the transition of other operational responsibilities, and final EMMR with lessons learned.

5.1.2.12 Corrective Action: When noncompliance or unforeseen impacts are identified, IPs notify the A/COR, place a hold on activities, take corrective action, and report on the effectiveness of corrective actions. The A/COR initiates the corrective action process and ensures the IP completes and documents their activities. Where required by Bureaus or Missions, ensure Record of Compliance is completed.

5.2 AGENCY CONDITIONS

5.2.1 Sub-award Screening: The A/COR will ensure the IP uses an adequate environmental screening tool to screen any sub-award applications and to aid in the development of EMMPs.

5.2.2 Programmatic IEEs (PIEE): PIEEs stipulate requirements for additional environmental examination of new or country specific projects/activities. The A/COR of any project/activity being implemented under a PIEE will ensure appropriate reviews are conducted, typically through a Supplemental IEE, and approved by the cognizant BEO.

5.2.3 Supplemental IEEs (SIEEs) will be prepared pursuant to the terms of the presiding PIEE for any new project/activity being planned. The SIEE will provide more

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thorough analysis of the planned activities, additional geographic context and baseline conditions as well as specific mitigation and monitoring requirements.

5.2.4 Other Supplemental Analyses: The A/COR will ensure supplemental environmental analyses that are called for in the IEE are completed and documented. The A/COR will also ensure that Leahy Vetting has occurred, if appropriate.

5.2.5 Resolution of Deferrals: If a deferral of the environmental threshold determination was issued, the A/COR will ensure that the appropriate 22CFR216 environmental analysis and documentation is completed and approved by the BEO before the subject activities are implemented.

5.2.6 Positive Determination: If a Positive Determination threshold determination was made, the A/COR will ensure a Scoping Statement, and if required an Environmental Assessment (EA), is completed and approved by the BEO before the subject activities are implemented.

5.2.7 Compliance with human subject research requirements: The AM, A/COR shall assure that the IP and sub-awardees, -grantees, and -contractors demonstrate completion of all requirements for ethics review and adequate medical monitoring of human subjects who participate in research trials carried out through this IEE and ensure appropriate records are maintained. All documentation demonstrating completion of required review and approval of human subject trials must be in place prior to initiating any trials and cover the period of performance of the trial as described in the research protocol.

5.3 MITIGATION MEASURES

The mitigation measures presented in this section constitute the minimum required based on available information at the time of this IEE and the environmental analysis in Section 4. These measures shall provide general direction for completing the project/activity Environmental Mitigation and Monitoring Plan (EMMP) and/or the EA and PERSUAP, if required.

OBJECTIVE 1: Develop the market for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations

TABLE 5A. SUMMARY OF MITIGATION MEASURES FOR OBJECTIVE 1

Activity Mitigation Measure(s) Objective 1: Develop the market for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations Intermediate results:

IR 1.1 Strengthened sustainable nature tourism supply chains in targeted destinations, through capacity building and training programs and greater appropriation of digital technologies and business formalization processes.

IEE TEMPLATE VERSION 1.0

IR 1.2. Increased travel demand for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations. Increased travel demand for sustainable nature tourism in targeted destinations through communication and marketing strategies.

N/A

IR 1.3 Improved public goods and services and productive infrastructure for sustainable nature tourism.

This may include small-scale public and private tourism related infrastructure like internet connectivity, rehabilitation of tertiary roads, trails, boardwalks, visitor centers, installation of renewable energy, etc.

Environmental impacts may be a result of small-scale construction activities and/or the increase of nature tourism without proper planning and management.

● Adopt designs that favor natural lighting and ventilation, as well as climate conditions, to reduce energy use.

● Adopt safety protocols.

● Adopt the necessary actions to prevent or manage the occurrence of fires.

● Analyze the associated cumulative…