Institutional Set-up of the DNA

The proposed draft procedure aims at 1) utilizing the existing institutional structure of the DNA; 2) being less bureaucratic and more transparent; 3) relying on existing consultation practice; 4) using the experience gained so far from the approval process of the first CDM projects in Armenia.

The final decision on a CDM project endorsement / approval is made by the DNA (MoNP) based on positive evaluation of the key stakeholders. For that reason, the DNA (while using the already established practice of consultations between different ministries) will acquire the official opinions of the Ministry of Economy of RA and the Ministry of Labor and Social Security of RA . The choice of these key-ministries is justified by the fact that these bodies are responsible in the country for preparation and implementation of strategy in the field of economic and social development, i.e., for the social and economic components of the country’s sustainable development. As to the environmental component, the DNA itself will assess it, as the responsible ministry for environmental policy.

To provide more transparency and efficiency of decision-making on CDM projects, the Armenian DNA has defined a set of basic criteria for project evaluation, which reflects the objectives of the country’s sustainable development. These criteria will serve as a constituent part of the official procedure for CDM project approval. In addition, the conformity of the project objectives to the policy in the particular sectors has to be confirmed by the corresponding ministries and agencies. The DNA will request also an official letter from the project national participant(s) stating their willingness to participate in the CDM project. Besides that, the project participants have to submit the official protocol on the results of public hearings and/or comments received from stakeholders and public during the consultation period.