8 November 2012: The Frankfurt School UN Environment Programme (UNEP) Collaborating Centre for Climate and Sustainable Energy Finance has released a case study on the Guyana REDD+ (reducing emissions from deforestation and degradation and the role of conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries) Investment Fund (GRIF).

The GRIF collaboration with Norway supports the implementation of the REDD+ elements of Guyana’s Low Carbon Development Strategy with the overall objective of demonstrating how REDD+ investments can address climate change while contributing to the development needs of developing countries.

The case study highlights the institutional framework in Guyana, which includes a coordinating body, the REDD+ Secretariat. The case study also emphasizes the importance of REDD+ co-benefits, especially with regards to addressing forest loss, supporting sustainable development and contributing to climate change adaptation.

The case study further examines the GRIF processes, mechanisms, institutional and financial structures, partners and objectives, and activities. In doing so, the case study lists the current investments under the GRIF, including institutional strengthening and the administration of the Amerindian Development Fund, as well as pending proposals including project preparation funds for canal rehabilitation and alternative livelihoods projects.

Finally, the case study outlines lessons learned, including the importance of ensuring that the enabling environment is in place to support REDD+ investments, the need for transparency and accountability, including the adherence to safeguards, the benefits from involving all affected stakeholders, and the usefulness of pooling multiple sources of funding. [Publication: Case Study: Guyana REDD-PLUS Investment Fund]