Programmatic Development Policy Loan for Sustainable Development

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The Programmatic Development Policy Loan (DPL) for Sustainable Development Project will support the government of Colombia's efforts to attain the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), in particular, towards ensuring environmental sustainability. Specifically, the program will improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the National Environmental System (SINA), and, integrate principles of sustainable development into key sectors, with a particular emphasis on protecting the most vulnerable groups. The Program will improve environmental management, particularly in urban areas, and, will support the development of a results-based framework for planning and monitoring progress of the SINA, as well as improvements in inter-institutional coordination, and increased public participation in environmental decision-making. In addition, preparation of critical policies, and laws related to air quality, water quality, solid waste management, and environmental licensing will also be supported. Improvements in air and water quality in urban centers will lead to decreased morbidity, and mortality rates, and other health effects. Increased accountability, transparency and improved public participation will provide the most vulnerable groups a voice in environmental decision-making. Several risks have been identified, most important, the overall political context, namely the internal conflict and violence associated with illegal drug activity, which could negatively affect the fiscal and macroeconomic environment, while aggravating the social situation. Throughout the reform program, several actions are being undertaken to mitigate risks, that is, through complementary actions in other sectors to support the development of a stronger foundation for peace, and reforms, allowing resources to be used for the transition to a post-conflict Colombia.