Training Academy launches new biodiversity management course for hydropower professionals
The Hydropower Sustainability Alliance (HSA) has launched a new online course designed to equip hydropower professionals with essential tools for navigating biodiversity challenges in project development.
The course, Biodiversity Management in Hydropower, is now available and is the second in the HSA’s online learning series focused on key ESG aspects of hydropower projects.
This course offers an in-depth exploration of biodiversity management, specifically tailored to the hydropower sector. It aims to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of biodiversity impacts and ensure compliance with international sustainability best practices aligned with the Hydropower Sustainability Standard (HSS).
What does the biodiversity course include?
Course participants will learn to identify, assess, mitigate and monitor biodiversity impacts throughout the entire hydropower project lifecycle.
Featuring interactive content, real-world case studies and practical methodologies, the course enables participants to develop effective strategies for integrating biodiversity considerations into all stages of project planning, design, construction and operations.
Through the course, hydropower developers can learn to identify possible biodiversity impacts early in the project cycle, to assess the most significant risks, and then to design projects that avoid or minimise adverse impacts, and management programmes that manage the remaining risks.
The course is ideal for project managers, sustainability teams, engineers, biodiversity experts, government agencies, regulators and NGOs involved in the planning, implementation, and oversight of hydropower projects.
"Biodiversity management is crucial for sustainable hydropower development"
“The Biodiversity Management in Hydropower course expands on our growing portfolio or resources, following our first course on environmental and social management,” said Amina Kadyrzhanova, Senior Sustainability Specialist at HSA. “By offering this course, we continue our commitment to providing hydropower professionals with the practical tools and knowledge needed to drive positive environmental and social outcomes in the sector.”
Simon Howard, an independent consultant and HSS Accredited Lead Assessor who was part of the team developing the course, said: "Effective biodiversity management is crucial for sustainable hydropower development, balancing energy needs with ecosystem preservation.
“It's been a pleasure to contribute to this course, which equips professionals with essential tools to navigate complex biodiversity challenges, ensuring our projects contribute positively to both energy security and environmental conservation.”
The biodiversity course follows the launch of the Environmental and Social Management in Hydropower course, which initiated the series. The E&S course, which focuses on managing environmental and social impacts throughout the hydropower project lifecycle, has garnered strong interest from professionals in the industry.
Both courses are designed for flexible, self-paced learning, and participants will receive a training certificate upon completion.
The Biodiversity Management in Hydropower course is now available for purchase. Learn more and register for the course.
