24 March 2009: The UNFCCC Secretariat has added a new document to its information-sharing web platform related to reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD), which was created in response to UNFCCC Decision 2/CP.13 (Reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries: approaches to stimulate action).

The new document, titled “Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD): An Options Assessment Report,” prepared by Norway, has been posted in the “Country Specific Information” section of the REDD portal, which contains party submissions on REDD approaches. The document discusses: various REDD finance options; options for setting reference levels; options for monitoring reporting and verification; and options to promote effective participation of indigenous peoples and local communities. It concludes by discussing the need for a flexible, phased approach to REDD, with reference levels that encourage deep emission reductions. [The Document]