| Date: | April 2011 |
| Type: | Brochures and Flyers |
| Series: | In Focus |
Description
ADB's environmental and social safeguards are a cornerstone of our support to inclusive economic growth and environmental sustainable growth.
Challenge
How can ADB ensure that our development projects will not harm people and the environment?
Strategy
In July 2009, ADB's Board of Directors approved the Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS) governing the environmental and social safeguards of ADB's operations. The SPS builds upon the three previous safeguard policies on the environment, involuntary resettlement, and Indigenous Peoples, and brings them into a single policy that enhances effectiveness and relevance. The objectives of the SPS are to avoid, or when avoidance is not possible, to minimize and mitigate adverse project impacts on the environment and affected people, and to help borrowers to strengthen their safeguard systems and develop the capacity to manage environmental and social risks.
Response
The SPS applies to all ADB-supported projects. We work with our borrowers to put policy principles and requirements into practice. Through project review and supervision, we ensure that borrowers implement safeguard plans and meet ADB's safeguard requirements. ADB continuously provides capacity development support to borrowers through policy dialogue, project support, technical assistance, and knowledge products.