Non-carbon benefits of REDD+ implementation and sustainable emission reductions – a review

Abstract

ABSTRACT REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation) is a potentially powerful policy instrument for climate change, considering the continued loss of tropical forests. While emissions reductions are the primary aim, the Warsaw Framework for REDD+ recognizes the significance of non-carbon benefits to countries in the Global South. We here attempt to provide a balanced assessment of the achievements over the first decade of this policy instrument, paying special attention to whether non-carbon benefits to tropical countries are materialising. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses principles, 136 studies were identified and screened for evidence. We observe that, while forest governance structures have been strengthened, delivery of environmental and socio-economic non-carbon benefits to forest communities appears to be unsystematic, partly due to the absence of formally agreed guidance on how they could be provided. As REDD+ programmes often impinge directly on the livelihoods of local communities, non-timber forest products are sometimes promoted as alternatives to forestry commodities, even if they provide scant compensation. Except for Ghana’s cocoa program, commodity-driven value chains tend to be neglected. As more funds are expected to finance REDD+ programmes, there could be opportunities for innovation in the delivery of non-carbon benefits.