The Amazon rainforest is facing irreversible ecosystem collapse due to deforestation, with the REDD+ program falling short in curbing this trend. A climate justice framework is proposed, focusing on Indigenous leadership and territorial defense to address root causes of deforestation and prioritize equity. The proposed principles for a more just approach to forest conservation in the Amazon include targeting main drivers of deforestation, recognizing and compensating Indigenous stewardship, upholding the Rights of Nature, prioritizing Indigenous leadership and self-determination, and upholding Indigenous knowledges and worldviews. Integrating Indigenous perspectives, fostering Indigenous women's rights and leadership, and directing finance to Indigenous Peoples are key steps in rebooting REDD+ markets and achieving equitable outcomes in climate finance and conservation efforts. To meet global climate targets, a shift towards recognizing Indigenous rights and leadership is essential for effective climate action and sustainable forest conservation.
https://www.oneearth.org/reimagining-redd-for-indigenous-led-solutions/