FAO.org

Monitoring is important in implementing Afforestation and Reforestation projects under the Clean Development Mechanism, known as the CDM. This e-Learning course presents the methods for carbon monitoring in these projects.

A model for assessing the socioeconomic outcomes of forest restoration projects was developed. Using a form of purposive sampling, eleven experts with backgrounds in the social, economic, and business aspects of forest restoration were identifi ed and agreed to participate in the process. Four iterations of a Delphi process resulted in a practical, robust model capable of evaluating the social and economic eff ects and outcomes of a wide range of forest restoration projects. Among the most highly rated indicators in the model were those related to job creation, community stability, economic impacts, and collaborative participation in restoration processes. Th e relative importance of the indicatorswas estimated, and specifi c metrics were developed for each indicator in the model. Upon completion of the Delphi process, the model was discussed with forest restoration monitoring practitioners and stakeholders, who off ered their perspectives from practitioners’ points of view. Results may have implications for any forest restoration eff orts with an interest in assessing a project’s social and economic outcomes.

This handbook was written for managers and scientists in the United States who are contemplating a participatory approach to monitoring biological resources, especially biodiversity. It is designed as a how-to manual with discussions of relevant topics, checklists of important considerations to address, and resources for further information. Worksheets for developing, implementing, and evaluating a monitoring plan are posted on a companion Web site. The subject matter is divided into 3 stages of a monitoring project encompassing a total of 22 topical modules. These modules can be used in any sequence on an ongoing basis. Stages and modules include (1) planning—documentation, goals, indicators, collaboration, decisions, context, organization, participants, communication, incentives, design, and resources; (2) implementation—training, safety, fieldwork, sampling, data, and quality; and (3) followthrough—analysis, reporting, evaluation, and celebrations. Collaboration always involves colearning, so documenting choices, plans, and activities with the Web site worksheets is integral to the manual’s effectiveness.

In cooperation with the USAID Global Climate Change team, Winrock International has developed a set of simple, user-friendly, web-based calculation tools titled the ‘Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land Uses (AFOLU) Carbon Calculator’. This calculator is designed to give USAID Missions and implementing partners an easy way to comply with USAID’s policy of mainstreaming carbon dioxide (CO2) as an Agency-wide indicator. The Calculator uses sound and transparent science to produce yearly estimates of avoided and/or sequestered greenhouse gas (GHGs)1emissions, reported in tons of CO2 equivalent (tCO2e). It also projects these benefits forward through time to assist in setting targets. The Calculator is not designed to provide the level of accuracy needed for carbon financing, but may provide an early indication of areas which have potential for such financing.

SilvaCarbon is an interagency technical cooperation program of the US Government to enhance the capacity of selected tropical countries to measure, monitor, and report on carbon in their forests and other lands. Drawing on expertise and resources from multiple US Government agencies and partners, the program provides targeted technical support to countries in the process of developing and implementing national forest and landscape monitoring systems. SilvaCarbon leverages state-of-the-art science and technology to advance the generation and use of improved information related to forest and terrestrial carbon.