Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD) in Apuí, Southern Amazonas: Challenges and Caveats Related to Land Tenure and Governance in the Brazilian Amazon

Climate change mitigation mechanisms related to reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD) may provide significant opportunities for re-arranging political networks and overcome forest governance problems, of which land tenure is the main constraint for REDD and reforestation projects in the Amazon. We present a case study of a pilot REDD project associated with reforestation and payment for environmental services in Apuí, southern Amazonas. The study emphasizes the role of local governance through an agreement aimed at re-orienting land use activities and forest management. We also present the technical, methodological, and cost-benefit studies behind the proposed framework. For instance, we found that cattle raising profitability in Apuí offers an opportunity for implementing such a pilot project. The framework proposed by the project engage stakeholders and bind together interests of governmental, non-governmental, and local civilian institutions in an agreement mechanism of mutual commitments. We highlight the related challenges and caveats, and the steps identified to overcome these hurdles. This proposal is based on a “Zero Deforestation Pact Agreement” that substitutes “command and control” mechanisms by using positive incentives. It serves as an innovative model for combating deforestation and promoting forest restoration in the Amazon by rewarding rural producers to keep forests standing.