Binding emissions targets needed before REDD can work

Binding emissions targets are needed before deforestation measures can work, says an expert.

Environmental group Forest Ecosystems Research Network (FERN) warned that without binding emissions targets, a Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation (REDD) agreement would do little to halt climate change.

"If the loopholes now in the REDD text – for offsets and for leakage – are not closed, this initiative will not reduce deforestation," said Kate Dooley, Forest Campaigner at FERN.

Countries receiving funds from REDD are required to detail what environmental and social measures they are taking, but campaigners highlighted that there is no agreement on how these reports will be compiled, monitored or verified and no mention has been made of the penalties for failing to provide reports.

At the 16th Conference of Parties (COP16) in Cancun, delegates outlined plans to build a framework for REDD, which will see developed countries provide finance to assist developing nations in protecting forests.

There has been no clear mention of how REDD will be funded, although suggestions are that the funds will come out of the Green Climate Fund. The fund will transfer money from developed nations to developing countries and will be governed by a board of 25 people, comprising an equal number of members from developing and developed countries.

Some observers have cautioned that a loophole which allows for sub-national accounting of carbon emission reductions from deforestation could unintentionally see logging increase if there are no mechanisms in place to account for leakage, whereby deforestation is simply moved from one country to another.

Others were more confident that just having a deal in place, albeit one lacking much detail, represented real progress.

"If we compare the decision here on forests with what was on the table two years ago, important progress has been made," said Lars Løvold, Director of Rainforest Foundation Norway.

On Friday (10th December 2010), Ban Ki-Moon, the UN Secretary-General called on the global community to work towards a quick end to deforestation.

"The time for global action to protect forests is now," said Ban Ki. "Developing countries are willing to lead. Let's hope they receive appropriate financial support."

Forests' act as the earth's lungs by absorbing carbon emissions from the atmosphere. Deforestation is not only a major source of carbon emissions, it deprives the planet of the trees needed to soak up carbon emissions. Opinion sis divided on whether the new REDD agreement will slow deforestation or have minimal effect.

Author: Leroy Robinson | Climate Action

Image: Valerio Pillar | Flickr