How does one ensure that REDD+ mitigation actions are effective in terms of emissions reductions but do not result in negative social and environmental impacts? At the 15th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in December 2009, consensus was reached that a number of safeguards should be supported and promoted when undertaking REDD+ actions. These include the existence of transparent and effective national forest governance structures, respect for the knowledge and rights of indigenous peoples and local communities, and full and effective participation of relevant stakeholders. Further, the need to monitor governance, to ensure the effective implementation of REDD+ actions, was recognised. Read More