Environmental and Social Performance Standard 1 (ESPS 1): Assessment and Management of Environmental and Social Risks and Impacts

Our people are committed and passionate about improving lives in Latin America and the Caribbean, and they get to do what they love in a diverse, collaborative and stimulating work environment. At the IDB, we’re committed to improving lives. Since 1959, we’ve been a leading source of long-term financing for economic, social, and institutional development in Latin America and the Caribbean. We do more than lending though. We partner with our 48-member countries to provide Latin America and the Caribbean with cutting-edge research about relevant development issues, policy advice to inform their decisions, and technical assistance to improve on the planning and execution of projects. For this, we need people who not only have the right skills but also are passionate about improving lives.

Learning objectives

• Identify the general details of the Environmental and Social Performance Standard (ESPS 1) within the IDB’s Environmental and Social Policy Framework.
• Recognize the characteristics and specific aspects of the seven elements of an Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) dictated by ESPS 1 standard.
• Validate that the ESMS is in line with the nature and scale of a project and its level of environmental and social risks and impacts.

Learning experience and activities

Self-guided virtual learning that includes:

• Interactive videos with explanations and specific questions on the different topics addressed.
• Questionnaires to identify learning-
• Two case studies.
• Downloadable documents.

Content / Topics

• Requirements of an Environmental and Social Management System dictated by ESPS 1 for a project.
• Characteristics and components of a project’s specific Environmental and Social Framework.
• Factors defining the scope and complexity of the risk and impact assessment of a project.
• Components of a risk management program.
• Importance of organizational capacity during the project cycle.
• Requirements of an ESMS for emergency preparedness and response.
• Mechanisms for disclosure and participation of an ESMS consistent with the level of risks and impacts of a project.
• Basic procedures and mechanisms for monitoring the risk management program.

Assessment description

This badge has been issued after completing two case studies and passing an 11-question multiple-choice quiz. Only one attempt is allowed to take the test, and two chances to answer each question correctly. A total score equal to or greater than 80 points must be achieved.

Estimated effort

This course took approximately three hours to complete.

Badge type

Assessment badge