Forest protection projects that earn credits for avoiding deforestation compared with a reference level.
Protection rather than planting
REDD+ projects keep standing forest from being cleared. Credits are issued for the forest loss that is avoided compared with a reference level, which estimates what would have happened without the project. Planting is not the aim, so a REDD+ project's credits depend on the threat it prevents.
Measuring the threat
Projects combine satellite monitoring of forest cover with ground surveys of carbon stocks. The reference level has to be realistic. If it assumes very high clearing rates, the project issues credits for protection that was never at risk.
Local communities
Many forests are managed by local and Indigenous communities. Projects that share benefits fairly and respect land rights are more durable, and buyers often check these arrangements alongside the carbon numbers.
Questions to ask before you rely on these credits
- Is the reference level based on credible historical and local deforestation drivers?
- How is leakage to neighbouring forests monitored?
- Are community agreements and benefit-sharing arrangements public?