REDD+ and the private sector: tapping into domestic markets

This IIED Briefing, published in November 2015, considers that uncertainties in the international carbon market make it imperative the UN’s Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation (REDD+) framework engages a wider spectrum of the private sector than just international companies and investors. Countries with REDD+ programmes should work with their domestic private sector to provide the missing momentum. Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises are crucial, as these usually dominate in forest- and agriculture-based economies. Engaging these businesses needs policy support that builds private and public partnerships. Experience from Tanzania and Mozambique shows existing policies and laws can support national REDD+ efforts to engage the private sector at scale. But strengthening policy and providing more targeted support would accelerate economic and environmental gains.