REDD+ UNLOCKING THE POTENTIAL OF FORESTS TO ADDRESS CLIMATE CHANGE

Simply put, REDD+ is a mechanism REDD+ that values the carbon potential of Reduced Emissions from and forests, encourages conservation and , plus the role of conservation, improves livelihoods. sustainable management of forests and the 1 enhancement of forest carbon stocks. READY FOR BUSINESS INVESTMENT REDD+ is an international mechanism established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate After more than a decade of Change that provides economic, social and environmental on-the-ground experience and incentives for developing countries to reduce emissions rapid advances in practices and from deforestation and technologies, forest carbon projects Under REDD+, related activities are now viewed as among the developing countries through the creation of carbon credits. Companies that invest in REDD+ and landholders that Under REDD+, projects represent a range protect and restore developing countries of industries and include BHP, and landholders that Microsoft, Disney and Qantas Airways. forests are rewarded protect and restore forests are rewarded for their role in securing for their role in private sector to conserve forests a safer climate. securing a healthier and invest in the social good of local climate. communities. An investment in REDD+: For example, a community could receive REDD+ funding or training to improve yields from existing farmland in • Reduces Emissions: return for avoiding the clearing of standing forests. A steady supply and low costs make REDD+ credits

emerging compliance markets. 1 REDD (reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation) is a UN recognized framework through which developing countries are rewarded finan- cially for any emissions reductions associated with a decrease in the conversion of • Demonstrates Commitment forests to alternative land uses. REDD+ evolved through recognition that a compre - to Conservation: Forests hensive approach to mitigating climate change should also simultaneously alleviate poverty, conserve and sustain vital ecosystem services. harbor 75% of all terrestrial

>> biodiversity and provide ecosystem services companies as climate leaders in a high- such as fresh water. growth carbon market.

• Provides Immediate Carbon Benefits: • Increases and Maintains Host Country Unlike the time horizon necessary to see Goodwill: The immediate and direct financing impact through or technological from REDD+ provides long-term commitment solutions, the impact of REDD+ is immediate. to a host country’s communities, biodiversity, ecosystems and development while helping • Supports Sustainable Livelihoods for achieve Nationally Determined Contributions Local Communities: Approximately as required by the and U.N. 1.6 billion people globally rely on forests Goals. for their livelihoods and health. • Supports Flexible Mechanisms for Policy • Empowers Women: Local women can Obligations: Inclusion of REDD+ in existing generate more than 50% of their income and emerging compliance markets will drive from forests. more investment and finance into conserving forests. Companies can support the case for • Exhibits Leadership in Climate Innovation: Investment in REDD+ distinguishes of meeting emissions reduction requirements.

opportunity for the private sector to address deforestation, contribute to climate change solutions, and improve lives. It is an approach that comes with proven outcomes demonstrated on the ground, through governance and via market support.

For more information, please contact Jennifer Blaha at [email protected] Learn more: www.conservation.org/redd