The Evolving Role of Climate Policies in Development - Spring

This capstone project analyzes the role of REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) within broader climate and development strategies, with a focus on integrating environmental safeguards and climate-compatible development planning. Conducted in collaboration with the Coalition for Rainforest Nations, the report examines the evolution of REDD+ within international climate negotiations, particularly following the Cancun Agreements. It identifies key challenges associated with implementation, including governance gaps, risks to Indigenous and local community rights, and the need for robust monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) systems. The analysis situates REDD+ as both a mitigation tool and a development mechanism, highlighting its potential to generate financial flows while preserving ecosystem services.

The report proposes a framework for implementing social and environmental safeguards alongside REDD+ programs, emphasizing transparency, stakeholder engagement, and institutional capacity building. It outlines mechanisms for integrating safeguards into national policies, including assessment tools, reporting systems, and alignment with Climate Compatible Development Plans (CCDPs). Case study analysis of countries such as Fiji and the Democratic Republic of Congo illustrates pathways for adapting REDD+ to diverse national contexts. The recommendations stress the importance of aligning climate finance with development priorities, strengthening governance structures, and ensuring equitable benefit-sharing. By bridging climate policy and development planning, the project contributes to the design of more inclusive, effective, and scalable approaches to forest-based climate mitigation.

Learn more about the MPA-ESP Capstone Workshop.