Improved implementation of the ESMS would require complete documentation of the steps being followed and strengthening of linkages with other ADB safeguard measures. Implementation of the ESMS steps for impact assessment, consultation, monitoring, and reporting was less documented than the other steps for screening and categorization in the initial environmental examination (IEE) and safeguard monitoring reports. The COVID-19 health and safety plan was prepared during project implementation, but the ESMS template was not updated to include the plan. Future ESMS templates should have (a) a more detailed IEE template with extensive annotated guidance and links to sample IEEs, (b) an environmental management plan template, and (c) a health and safety plan template that includes provisions for future pandemics.
Gansu Featured Agriculture and Financial Services System Development Project