Biodiversity and livelihoods: REDD-plus benefits

This publication demonstrates how measures and policies for REDD+ (reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries, including conservation, sustainable management of forests, and enhancement of carbon stocks) can simultaneously address climate change, biodiversity loss and poverty. The booklet reviews the role of forests in, and synergies between, mitigation and adaptation strategies, and the importance of indigenous and local communities as key partners and beneficiaries of REDD+ efforts. It also points to market interest in multiple benefits of forests beyond carbon, noting that a financial compensation mechanism should aim to achieve multiple benefits simultaneously and remunerate their mutual promotion. It calls for political will and coordination at the country level for enhancing synergies and cost savings.