REDD+

Reduced Emissions From Deforestation and Degradation (REDD)

Climate Change is considered to be the greatest challenge to humankind, and "fixing" it will require a range of measures, including the protection of forest ecosystems from degradation.  Approximately one third of all CO2 that has been added to the atmosphere since the start of the industrial revolution is a result of deforestation (IPCC 2000 Report).  In 2009, global emissions from deforestation exceed those from all of the vehicle, aircraft, rail, and shipping emissions combined.

In response, a new methodology, REDD (Reduced Emissions From Deforestation and Degradation of forests), is being developed and promoted as an effective way of allowing communities to meaningfully and substantially participate in the growing global climate change effort. REDD projects are designed to provide the impetus for the creation of a much larger and sustainable bio-economy that will engage local communities in creating and sustaining healthy ecosystems.  This programming is intended to generate equitable employment, new infrastructure, renewable energy sources and education for the communities in these regions.

Carbon offsets arising from REDD projects are expected to address demands from voluntary and emerging regulatory markets.