Implementing REDD in the Brazilian Amazon: Contextualization, Debates and Challenges

This background paper, as a contribution to the TFD Field Dialogue on REDD in the Brazilian Amazon, has been organized in the following manner: The first three sections provide an overview of the region in terms of i) the geographical and historical context ii) key characteristics of contemporary Brazilian Amazonia, and iii) recent trends and drivers of deforestation and forest degradation. Section IV provides a brief commentary on the importance of forests within Brazil’s GHG emissions portfolio and the recent evolution of positions and proposals in the country regarding REDD. Section V presents and analysis of the current state of debates on key issues and challenges for the implementation of REDD in the Brazilian Amazon. At the end of the paper, the reader will find a list of abbreviations, as well as list of references.