E2.1.2. National REDD+ Program benefits, risks and measures related to non-conversion of natural forests and other ecosystems
In addition to requirements for Strategic Environmental Assessments or Environmental Impact Assessments, specific impact assessment processes for REDD+ aim to reduce risks of conversion or adverse impacts on the environment. A number of potential benefits and risks related to the non-conversion of natural forests, and their biodiversity and ecosystem services, have been identified through REDD+ planning processes at the national and subnational levels. These benefits and risks, and measures suggested to enhance benefits and reduce risks, are discussed in detail under SIS E3.1.2, which looks at the conservation of natural forests and biodiversity. These assessments include:
- An assessment of potential benefits and risks of the Policies and Measures (PaMs) of the National REDD+ Action Program (2017)[1], which identified risks related to natural forests, biodiversity and ecosystems and proposed mitigation measures. Provincial REDD+ Action Plans (PRAPs) developed in provinces so far have included benefit and risk assessment and identification of measures to mitigate risks, along with mapping of forest resources. Data on each PRAP is not yet compiled, but PRAPs are shared via the Management Board for Forestry Projects (MBFP)[2] website and other websites.
- Benefit and risk assessments at the sub-national level carried out through the FCPF Emission Reductions Program (FCPF ERP)’s Strategic Environmental and Social Assessment (SESA),[3] and through the assessment of Environmental and Social Considerations for the Project for Sustainable Forest Management in the Northwest Watershed Area (SUSFORM-NOW). The SESA, for example, identified some design features to mitigate environmental risks, including plantation development primarily with smallholders, and not including those with natural forest or in protected areas or “high conservation value forests”; codes of practice for the development of plantations; and setting up a comprehensive Monitoring and Evaluation system.
[1] Summary of assessment of potential benefits and risks arising from the NRAP: https://sis.kiemlam.gov.vn/web/guest/library/-/document_library/iXuUrTYhhdKx/view_file/75422
[2] Please see https://daln.gov.vn/cac-ke-hoach-hanh-dong-redd-va-bao-cao-chuyen-de-hop-phan-2.26225.news
[3] Please see: https://documents1.worldbank.org/curated/es/290961551691496606/pdf/Danh-gia-chien-luoc-moi-truong-va-xa-hoi.pdf