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Sri Lanka REDD+ Readiness Preparation Proposal (R-PP)
February, 2012. Ministry of Environment (MoE), Sri Lanka. Final Draft. UN-REDD Programme. 209 pages
Summary
As a signatory to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Sri Lanka is committed to addressing the threat of human-induced climate change through all sectors, both by increasing the resilience of its people and its ecosystems through adaptation measures, and by decreasing the intensity of climate change itself through mitigation measures.
Sri Lanka’s forests, uniquely among its land-use sectors, can make a significant contribution to both adaptation and mitigation. The Government, under the leadership of the Ministry of Environment (MoE), seeks to maximize this contribution by developing a national strategy for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation, plus conservation, sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks (REDD+).
The nation’s forests are of global significance, in social, environmental and historical terms. As an island, Sri Lanka’s 2 million ha of forests are rich in endemic species of flora and fauna. They are also host to the remnants of a unique ancient civilization, in which power rested with those who controlled waterways and irrigation systems. The indigenous Veddha people, though newly accustomed to settled village life, retain a wealth of knowledge and wisdom on the important products and services that these unique ecosystems provide.
Having emerged only recently from a debilitating 30-year internal conflict, many areas of the country were cut off from development and economic growth. Sri Lanka’s forests are therefore particularly vulnerable as roads and other infrastructure expand. Moreover, home garden systems, known as ‘forest analogues’, cover 22% of the land area and contribute the majority of the country’s timber and fuelwood supply. As the tea and rubber industries continue to grow, it is essential that this crucial aspect of the rural economy is preserved.
The unique value of Sri Lanka’s forests, and the nature of the threat they face, makes the country a strong candidate for an effective National REDD+ Programme. To help prepare for such a Programme, the MoE submits this Readiness Preparation Proposal (R-PP) to the UN-REDD Policy Board. The R-PP sets out a comprehensive plan to steer the country through the first of the three phases of REDD+, the Readiness Phase.
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Keywords: c. National Policy & Legislation, g. REDD+ Strategies & Options, Other Publications, Asia, FCPF, Natonal REDD+ Programme, R-PP, REDD, Sri Lanka, UN REDD