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What is REDD+?

It is estimated that greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation and degradation contribute up to 20% of global emissions. REDD stands for 'reducing emissions from deforestation and degradation', and is an important part of global policies to address climate change. The term 'REDD-plus' or 'REDD+' is now also used frequently. REDD+ is similar to REDD, but instead of just covering deforestation and degradation, it includes other activities, such as the sustainable management of forests and the enhancement of forest carbon stocks. 

REDD+ has mainly been discussed in international climate negotiations, particularly where there is interest in developing new policies to provide tropical developing countries with financial incentives to reduce deforestation and degradation rates. These incentives are typically financed by more developed countries.

There is particular interest in the REDD+ incentive system as payments can be linked to performance. In addition, REDD+ can offer developing countries substantial financial benefits for protecting their forests, and may be more cost-effective than other emission-reduction policies.

A wide range of briefings on REDD+ and how it works are available, some of which are highlighted in the featured resources below. You can also see our useful links for further information. 

Further Resources

  1. REDD+ Design in Cambodia, Indonesia and Mexico: Lessons to Inform International REDD+ Policy DevelopmentEffective REDD+ policy development must integrate analysis and policy at all levels to desig...
  2. Study REDD Peru: Situation of REDD in Peru / Estudio REDD PERÚ: La Situación de REDD en el PeruThis report seeks to help a more comprehensive understanding of the different REDD's process...

More Case Studies

  1. Survey on REDD Communications Barriers and NeedsAs REDD+ efforts develop at a rapid pace, there is a need to ensure that accurate, unbiased ...

More Research Reports

  1. Challenges of reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+) on the African continentREDD+ offers developing countries an opportunity to reduce emissions from the forest ...
  2. Local perspectives on REDD From the local perspective of stakeholders living in tropical forest margin, the REDD+ debat...
  3. Implications of Cancun for Asia-Pacific: Experts panel reportIn February 2010, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and RECO...
  4. Taking stock of REDD+: what do we know in 2010?This set of 11 infosheets takes stock of the some of the key sources on a range of relevant ...

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