Which of the following statements is/are correct? Proper design and effective implementation of UN-REDD+ Programme can significantly contribute to 1. protection of biodiversity 2. resilience of forest ecosystems 3. poverty reduction Select the correct answer using the code given below.
1, 2 and 3
Understanding the UN-REDD+ Programme Contributions
The question asks how the proper design and effective implementation of the UN-REDD+ Programme can significantly contribute to several important areas. Let's examine each statement provided.
Analysing Statement 1: Protection of Biodiversity
Statement 1 suggests that the UN-REDD+ Programme can contribute to the protection of biodiversity. Deforestation and forest degradation are major causes of habitat loss, which directly threatens biodiversity. The core objective of the UN-REDD+ Programme is to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation. By providing incentives and support for countries to protect and sustainably manage their forests, the programme helps preserve forest ecosystems. These ecosystems are home to a vast number of plant and animal species. Therefore, reducing deforestation and degradation through UN-REDD+ actions directly contributes to protecting the habitats and species within forests, thus protecting biodiversity.
Analysing Statement 2: Resilience of Forest Ecosystems
Statement 2 proposes that the UN-REDD+ Programme can contribute to the resilience of forest ecosystems. Resilience refers to the ability of an ecosystem to withstand and recover from disturbances like climate change impacts, pests, diseases, or fires. Degraded forests are often less resilient. The UN-REDD+ Programme promotes sustainable forest management, conservation of forest carbon stocks, and enhancement of forest carbon stocks (e.g., through reforestation and restoration). These activities help maintain and improve the health, structure, and diversity of forest ecosystems. Healthier and well-managed forests are inherently more resilient to various threats. Thus, the initiatives supported by the UN-REDD+ Programme enhance the resilience of forest ecosystems.
Analysing Statement 3: Poverty Reduction
Statement 3 considers whether the UN-REDD+ Programme can contribute to poverty reduction. Millions of people, particularly in developing countries, rely on forests for their livelihoods. Activities driving deforestation and degradation are often linked to economic needs and poverty. The UN-REDD+ framework encourages approaches that involve local communities and indigenous peoples, respect their rights, and ensure equitable benefit sharing from REDD+ activities. By providing alternative livelihood options that are compatible with forest conservation, supporting community-based forest management, and channeling financial incentives to forest-dependent populations, the UN-REDD+ Programme has the potential to improve economic conditions and reduce poverty among these groups. Addressing the drivers of deforestation often requires tackling underlying social and economic issues, linking forest protection efforts to poverty reduction strategies.
Conclusion on UN-REDD+ Contributions
Based on the analysis of each statement in relation to the objectives and activities of the UN-REDD+ Programme:
- Statement 1 is correct because protecting forests is crucial for protecting biodiversity habitats.
- Statement 2 is correct because sustainable forest management and conservation enhance forest health and resilience.
- Statement 3 is correct because the programme's focus on local communities, rights, and benefit-sharing can support poverty reduction efforts linked to sustainable forest use and conservation.
Therefore, all three statements accurately describe potential contributions of a well-designed and effectively implemented UN-REDD+ Programme.
| Statement | Potential Contribution | Justification linked to UN-REDD+ |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Protection of biodiversity | Yes | Reduces habitat loss from deforestation and degradation. |
| 2. Resilience of forest ecosystems | Yes | Promotes healthy, well-managed forests resistant to threats. |
| 3. Poverty reduction | Yes | Supports sustainable livelihoods and benefit sharing for forest communities. |
Revision Table: Key Concepts of UN-REDD+
| Concept | Explanation |
|---|---|
| UN-REDD+ Programme | A UN collaborative initiative to help developing countries reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+). |
| REDD+ | Refers to Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation, plus the role of conservation, sustainable management of forests, and enhancement of forest carbon stocks. |
| Objectives | Climate change mitigation (reducing emissions), biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, supporting forest-dependent communities. |
| Implementation | Involves national strategies, monitoring systems, safeguard systems, and benefit-sharing mechanisms. |
Additional Information on UN-REDD+ and Forest Conservation
The UN-REDD+ Programme is a partnership between the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It works with partner countries to implement REDD+ activities.
Implementing REDD+ effectively requires addressing complex issues, including land tenure, governance, drivers of deforestation, and ensuring the full and effective participation of indigenous peoples and local communities. The programme emphasizes the importance of 'safeguards' – principles and criteria designed to ensure that REDD+ actions do not harm biodiversity or the rights and livelihoods of local people, and ideally contribute positively to these areas.
The potential contributions of UN-REDD+ to biodiversity protection, ecosystem resilience, and poverty reduction are interconnected. For example, involving local communities (poverty reduction aspect) in sustainable forest management often leads to better forest health (resilience) and reduced illegal logging or clearing, which in turn protects habitats (biodiversity).
Important Questions from National & Intl. Orgs
The FAO accords the status of ‘Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS)’ to traditional agricultural systems.
What is the overall goal of this initiative?
1. To provide modern technology, training in modern farming methods and financial support to local communities of identified GIAHS so as to greatly enhance their agricultural productivity
2. To identify and safeguard eco-friendly traditional farm practices and their associated landscapers, agricultural biodiversity and knowledge systems of the local communities
3. To provide Geographical Indication status to all the varieties of agricultural produce in such identified GIAHS
Select the correct answer using the code given below.
India's ranking in the 'Ease of Doing Business Index' is sometimes seen in the news. Which of the following has declared that ranking?
With reference to the 'Trans-Pacific Partnership', consider the following statements :
1. It is an agreement among all the Pacific Rim countries except China and Russia.
2. It is a strategic alliance for the purpose of maritime security only.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
'Doctors Without Borders (Medecins Sans Frontieres)', often in the news, is
With reference to an initiative called ‘The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB)’, which of the following statements is/are correct?
1. It is an initiative hosted by UNEP, IMF and World Economic Forum.
2. It is a global initiative that focuses on drawing attention to the economic benefits of biodiversity.
3. It presents an approach that can help decision-makers recognize, demonstrate and capture the value of ecosystems and biodiversity.
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