ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the potential contribution of strategic environmental and social assessment in the management of environmental and social benefits and risks related to REDD+ initiatives. Strategic Environmental and Social Assessments (SESA) is one such approach that has been proposed by one of the most influential organizations in relation to REDD+, the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF). The launching of the International Tropical Timber Organization (ITTO) and the Tropical Forestry Action Plans (TFAP) in 1985 marked the beginning of major international efforts to introduce large-scale forest reforms aiming at reducing forest loss in developing countries. The initiatives included efforts to create worldwide institutions to arrest deforestation, enhance conservation of the world's forests, and increase funding and guidance for sustainable forest management. The World Bank has established the FCPF with the purpose of assisting developing countries in their efforts to reduce emissions from deforestation and forest degradation by providing value to standing forests.
