Guidance for Institutional and Legal System

How to adapt the institutional and legal system to improve the incorporation of environmental factors at the preparedness level

• Be aware of the institutional setting concerning environmental and disaster risk management (see this guide on disaster risk management systems analysis for detailed guidance).
  • Know the key environmental and emergency response actors.
    • Which institutional system governs disaster risk management, i.e. disaster prevention/mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery?
    • Which institutional system governs environmental matters, e.g. natural resources, environmental protection, conservation and climate change?
  • Consider whether environmental actors are part of the institutional architecture for disaster risk management:
    • If not, can they be engaged?
    • If yes, do they have the capacity to take on roles and responsibilities during emergency response and recovery?
  • Consider whether emergency response actors are prepared for environmental emergencies:
    • Are environmental emergencies included in contingency plans?
    • Are environmental experts included in the response?
    • Is the country prepared to receive international assistance (see the Environmental Emergency Guidelines for detailed guidance)
  • Is there a formal connection between environmental and disaster risk management institutions, or are institutional ‘silos’ hindering collaborative action?
    • How can cooperation be improved?
    • Are there any international and regional communication networks for emergency response? These should use a common language and platforms of information exchange and coordination that respective disaster management authorities are familiar with.
• Identify environmental policies and legislation relevant for emergency planning and response, e.g. regulations on water management, energy production, land use, hazardous materials and waste.
  • What is the level of commitment to international policy such as the Sendai Framework on Disaster Risk Reduction, sustainable development goals and climate change action?
  • Which environmental standards must be upheld throughout response and recovery?
  • Engage environmental NGOs or the Ministry of Environment to support with compliance and best practices.
  • Translate environmental legislation into humanitarian context (what implications does legislation have for water management, construction, transport, energy, food delivery and other humanitarian activities).
• See Chapter 5 for an assessment of the institutional arrangements for disaster management in Myanmar, which includes various disaster management related ministries and departments, such as the Ministry of Forestry.