Environmental and Social Framework (ESF)

The Environmental and Social Framework (ESF) is a set of guidelines used by institutions like the World Bank to ensure projects they fund are environmentally sustainable and socially responsible. It aims to prevent or minimize negative impacts on the environment, communities, and people's rights by assessing potential risks beforehand, engaging stakeholders, and implementing measures for responsible development. Essentially, the ESF helps balance economic progress with environmental protection and social fairness, ensuring projects benefit communities without causing harm or injustice.