REDD+ policy networks in Brazil: constraints and opportunities for successful policy making

Abstract

ABSTRACT. The prospective introduction of REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation and enhancement of carbon stocks) in Brazil has generated many questions about its form of implementation and likely environmental effectiveness. These issues must be addressed to reduce the risks associated with REDD+, such as conflicts over land and forest resources, and increase the likelihood of successful outcomes, as equitable benefits sharing. In this study, we examine how policy actors such as NGOs, government, and the private sector influence the REDD+ policy process in Brazil. We analyze actors' positions on key issues in REDD+ (conflicts; benefits sharing; free, prior, and informed consent; tenure; and coordination) to identify associated constraints and opportunities for REDD+ policy making with a focus on the national strategy. We examine the structure of three policy networks in this policy arena (prestige, information exchange, and collaboration) with the aim of explaining these constraints and opportunities, so that policy can be positively modified or adapted ahead of its implementation. We note that the presence of polarization on the issues analyzed implies the need for better negotiation among actors if REDD+ is to move forward effectively. Furthermore, the absence of coordination between types of actors (private sector, government, and NGOs) suggests that achieving optimal REDD+ governance in Brazil will be difficult. Finally, we propose some directions for REDD+ policy making in Brazil that could help policy managers and stakeholders improve the design and implementation of the national strategy.

National REDD+ policy networks: from cooperation to conflict

“…Having declared its commitment, the country has taken steps to reduce deforestation, despite controversy over the new forestry law, which opponents fear will reinforce the power of large-scale businesses, such as soybean farms and cattle ranching, that drive deforestation (Stickler et al 2013). Land tenure issues are openly discussed, and equity considerations are prominent in REDD+ policy debates because of the presence of well-established environmental justice nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) concerned mainly with indigenous peoples' rights (May et al 2011b, Di Gregorio et al 2013, Gebara et al 2014). …”

Taking Stock of Carbon Rights in REDD+ Candidate Countries: Concept Meets Reality

“…In these processes beneficiaries are being defined. The main challenge this country faces is the "nesting" of activities and payment distribution of the sub-national levels into the national approach to REDD+ [75]. Peru, pursuing a similar approach, faces comparable multi-level governance challenges.…”

Research on Climate Change Policies and Rural Development in Latin America: Scope and Gaps

“…[91] Effects of possible policy options (d2') How can carbon payments and income taxes affect deforestation in a market equilibrium framework? [92] Most of the research on the role of the media and policy networks in climate policy development in Latin America has been conducted on the case of REDD+, and analysed how REDD+ is represented in the media in Brazil [93] and Peru [84], how actors interacted in a national REDD+ network for exchanging information or collaborating in Peru [94], and how the structure of policy networks explained REDD+ constraints and opportunities in Brazil [85].…”

“…[84] Policy networks (a2) How are policy networks structured, and how do they explain REDD+ constraints and opportunities in Brazil? [85] Progress in policy cycle (a2') Are approaches to reduce deforestation (sustainable supply chains, domestic policies and finance, REDD+) being implemented? [86] Conflicts in policy content (b2') What are the legal rights on carbon in Chile?…”