Grassroots capacity development for REDD+: approaches and key lessons from Nepal [Policy brief]

Abstract

Key Messages: • Using the cascade approach for capacity development on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation (REDD+) has been proved to be a successful way to reach out to a large number of grassroots stakeholders in a cost effective manner. • Establishing collaborative arrangements with local partner organizations, including government agencies can mobilize grassroots and relevant stakeholders in understanding and planning for effective climate change mitigation strategies. • Integrating of local and indigenous wisdom with scientific knowledge helps to internalize and collectively respond to the challenges of climate change. • Drivers of deforestation and forest degradation are multiple and go beyond subsistence use of forest resources, and therefore REDD+ capacity development efforts should also go much beyond forestry sector stakeholders