The United Nations Global Service Centre (UNGSC) was pleased to welcome Jennifer Pulliam, Programs Director, Global Peace Operations Initiative (GPOI), U.S. Department of State, to our Base in Brindisi.
The visit occurred in the context of a successful trilateral partnership among the United States, the United Nations, and Nepal to implement a GPOI-funded Hybrid Solar Panel project for the Nepalese battalion deployed in Rumbek, South Sudan (NEPBATT 1 Rumbek) at the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
Due to be completed in October 2024, the project is part of a multi-million-dollar investment in “cleaner and greener UN peacekeeping,” by the U.S., in line with the priorities identified in the Department of Operational Support’s Environment Strategy for Peace Operations. In addition to the replacement of traditional diesel generators, and the production of renewable energy, efforts are also underway to incorporate a solar energy storage system, aimed at minimizing the UN’s carbon footprint and contributing to a positive legacy in the host country. Lessons learned are being shared with other Member States, and the possibility of replicating the project is being explored.**
Highlighting the role of the Environment Section in the Executive Office of the United Nations Under Secretary General for Operational Support and the technical support provided by UNGSC’s Environmental Technical Support Unit (ETSU), Ms. Pulliam expressed appreciation for the effective partnership among all stakeholders throughout the project's development and implementation.
In addition to learning more about UNGSC’s activities in the areas of environmental support, renewable energy solutions, mapping, and remote sensing, the visit also included a tour of facilities and a briefing on the Standing Police Capacity (SPC), one of the UN Office of Rule of Law and Security Institutions (OROLSI) Standing Capacities housed at UNGSC’s premises.
UNGSC is grateful for the positive feedback received from Ms. Pulliam regarding our capabilities and expertise and looks forward to exploring further opportunities for impactful collaboration.
** https://www.state.gov/u-s-commitments-at-the-2023-accra-peacekeeping-ministerial/
28 Jun 2024
