How is ESDNH assessed under Riverse Standard?

Environmental and Social Do No Harm (ESDNH) assessments under the Riverse Standard involve evaluating the potential negative impacts of a project on environmental and social factors. Projects must demonstrate that they do not contribute to substantial environmental and social harms, which involves identifying, evaluating, and managing risks associated with the project. These risks are managed through:

• Stakeholder consultation: Project Developers must conduct a comprehensive and documented stakeholder consultation. Incorporating diverse perspectives and feedback is fundamental to the integrity of anyproject, and this takeholder feedback is collected online through the Riverse Registry for one month during the validation phase.
• Risk assessment: Project Developers must evaluate the risk of environmental and social damage using Riverse Risk Assessment Templates.
• Health & Safety of workers is particularly important for Riverse projects, given the standard’s focus on industrial projects. Industrial environments may pose unique challenges and risks to workers, who’s well-being and protection must be prioritized. Specific risks, such as exposure to harmful chemicals, are treated in methodologies where relevant.

Project developers are required to identify these risks and assess their severity and likelihood. They must also provide mitigation strategies to manage identified risks effectively. The Riverse certification team reviews these assessments to ensure thoroughness and may suggest modifications or additional precautions to address any overlooked issues.

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