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Environmental and Social Standard (ESS) 5: Community health, safety and security

Framework for Environmental and Social Management guidance note

Year of publication 2025

Place of publication Rome, Italy ;

Pages 28 p.

Author FAO

Publisher FAO ;

Product type Booklet

To cite or share https://doi.org/10.4060/cd3699en

Synopsis (short abstract) Environmental and Social Standard (ESS) 5 focuses on ensuring that FAO-supported projects and programmes minimize or avoid negative impacts on community health, safety, and security. This guidance note provides detailed advice on how to meet the requirements of ESS 5 during the design and implementation phases, emphasizing the identification and mitigation of risks specific to vulnerable communities. While not intended to be a comprehensive guide, it directs users to relevant external resources and offers practical tools to address common health and safety concerns in agricultural projects.The standard covers a broad range of issues that may arise from project activities, including infrastructure development, hazardous materials management, changes in transportation patterns, and the presence of security personnel. ESS 5 also addresses the impacts of these activities on ecosystem services, food security, and nutrition. The guidance note highlights the importance of screening and risk assessment to identify potential adverse effects, and it provides strategies for developing management plans and implementing mitigation measures to safeguard community well-being throughout the project lifecycle.

Cite this content as:

FAO. 2025. Environmental and Social Standard (ESS) 5: Community health, safety and security. – Framework for Environmental and Social Management guidance note. Rome.

https://doi.org/10.4060/cd3699en

Language English

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