Promoting Biodiversity Co-Benefits in REDD

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This article describes the potential for maximizing biodiversity conservation as a co-benefit of REDD (Reduced Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation).

Conclusions & Takeaways

This paper considers whether afforestation and reforestation activities, if included in a REDD mechanism, would result in positive or negative impacts to biodiversity. The author suggests that planting mixed native forest species might improve biodiversity by not only regenerating forests in previously deforested areas, but also increasing connectivity between forest habitats. However, if afforestation and reforestation activities instead encourage monoculture plantations and the use of invasive exotic species, adverse impacts on biodiversity could follow.