REDD+ Launches in Belize

Eduardo Reyes

Today, the Ministry of Agriculture officially launched the REDD+ Preparedness Project, a long-term forest-based initiative that seeks to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. The project is the first of three phases of REDD+ implementation and is the preparatory phase for assessing, safeguarding and preparing plans for the next phases of implementation.  As it pertains to this three-year strategic planning phase, Belize will gather vital data, identify safeguards, policies, programmes and develop REDD+ strategy and plans. Engagement with stakeholders such as the indigenous communities, conservation organizations and the private sector is crucial for the effective implementation of the REDD+ strategies and action plan.

Eduardo Reyes, REDD+ Coordinator, Belize

“Minster of State in the Ministry of Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment, and Sustainable Development, the Honourable Omar Figueroa, was the keynote speaker at the event. Minister Figueroa reiterated that “REDD+ presents us with the unique opportunity to incentivize forest protection, reforestation, and sustainable forest management. In so doing, countries also have to safeguard the rights of forests owners, protect the livelihood of forest-dependent communities, and improve the governance of national forests.”  Other speakers included Doctor Percival Cho, C.E.O. of the Ministry of the Fisheries, Forestry, the Environment and Sustainable Development; Mr. Eduardo Reyes, Director of REDD+; and Mr. Pablo Mis, Chairman of the Belize National Indigenous Council.”