UPSC Prelims 2016 Q54: Environment & Ecology – International Environmental Treaties & Summits
Which of the following statements is/are correct? Proper design and effective
implementation of UN - REDD+ Programme can significantly contribute to
1. Protection of biodiversity
2. Resilience of forest ecosystems
3. Poverty reduction
Select the correct answer
using the code given below.
- (a) 1 and 2 only
- (b) 3 only
- (c) 2 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
UN-REDD+ Programme
REDD = Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation.
The '+' adds conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks.
| Contribution | Can a well-designed REDD+ deliver it? | How |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Protection of biodiversity | Yes | Standing forests keep habitats intact |
| 2. Resilience of forest ecosystems | Yes | Less degradation means healthier forests |
| 3. Poverty reduction | Yes | Payments go to forest communities that protect forests |
Key facts:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| UN-REDD Programme | Launched in 2008 by FAO, UNDP and UNEP |
| Idea | Developing countries are paid for verified cuts in forest emissions |
| Rules | Warsaw Framework for REDD+ (COP19, 2013) |
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Poverty reduction is also a benefit, through payments to forest communities.
- (b) Incorrect. Protection of biodiversity and forest resilience also follow.
- (c) Incorrect. Protection of biodiversity is a direct benefit of keeping forests standing.
- (d) CORRECT. REDD+ can help biodiversity, forest resilience and poverty reduction.
Key point
REDD+: payments to developing countries for reducing forest emissions, plus conservation and carbon stock enhancement; UN-REDD (2008) by FAO, UNDP, UNEP.
Remember
REDD+ = forests saved, carbon cut, communities paid.
Common mistakes
- Seeing REDD+ only as a carbon scheme with no social benefits.
- Forgetting what the '+' adds: conservation and sustainable management.
- Confusing the UN-REDD Programme with the World Bank's Forest Carbon Partnership Facility.
Exam tip
'Can significantly contribute to' with broad benefits: usually all are correct.
Sources
- UN-REDD Programme — About REDD+
- UNFCCC — Warsaw Framework for REDD+ (2013)