Abstract

Based on the regulations related to REDD+ eligible activities under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate (UNFCCC) and the requirements on biodiversity safeguards under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), we analyzed the possible positive and negative impacts on biodiversity of primary types of REDD+ activities. These included reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation, and enhancing carbon stocks through conservation and sustainable management of forests and afforestration. Based on our findings, we recommend approaches to ensure biodiversity benefits from REDD+ activities. Our results indicate that impacts on biodiversity in relation to REDD+ will depend on the scope, location and type of REDD+ activities, as well as on the approaches used to address biodiversity safeguard. The positive effects of REDD+ activities on biodiversity should be taken into account when REDD+ activities are developed, while reasonable policies and measurements should be established and employed when they are carried out. In particular, negotiations and close collaboration should occur between the national government and stakeholders, e.g. the local communities. We believe there will be positive impacts on biodiversity from the following REDD+ activities in China. If China plans to design and prepare REDD+ activities in the future, it is recommended that the goals for biodiversity conservation, institutional responsibilities for REDD+ activities, stakeholders, implementation and monitoring should be taken into account at the time when the national REDD+ scheme, forestry policies and measurements, institutional arrangement and monitoring system are constructed.