Deforestation and forest degradation contribute nearly 20 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions annually. Thus a mechanism has been developed under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to offer incentives to developing countries for reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD). When REDD activities also cover forest conservation, sustainable management of forest, and enhancement of forest carbon stock, such initiatives are referred to as 'REDD+'. All forests conserved by communities are eligible for such incentives. This video presents a pilot project in Nepal -- where almost one-third of the land is covered by forest -- that is seeking suitable mechanisms to provide beneἀts for forest-dependent communities that conserve the forest. The project has created a pilot Forest Carbon Trust Fund and has tested a structure and system for ensuring that REDD+ payments are transparent, fair, and inclusive. Local communities have learned to measure and monitor the carbon in their forests.

Type of Case
Video or audio

Publisher
Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)

Region
Asia Pacific

Biome
Tropical

Forest Type
All forest types (natural and planted), Degraded forest

Primary Designated Function
All