Forests and Carbon Sequestration in Cameroon

Groundwork preparations for implementing the UNFCCC mechanism for reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+) as well as sustainable forest management, forest conservation and the enhancement of forest carbon stocks are quickly advancing in most developing countries. These countries are said to be respon - sible for approximately 12–18% of global GHG emissions predominantly via deforestation. A substantial body of literature suggests that actions to prevent further emissions from deforestation will be less costly compared to other emission mitigation actions such as those linked to the burning of fossil fuels, since no new technologies are required, quick reductions can be made and opportunity costs are expected to be low (so called ‘low hanging fruits’). With the aid of an ex-ante Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) and based on the drivers of deforestation in Cameroon, this study sets out to analyse the validity of this claim. Some key questions analysed within the context of this research include: • What are the drivers of deforestation? • What are the costs of REDD+? • What is the role of different estimation parameters in estimating REDD+ costs? • What role do intangible costs and benefits play in decisions for or against REDD+? • What level of financing is required under a market-based or fund-based REDD+ mechanism? • How many tons of CO2e are expected to be reduced in implementing REDD+? In attempting answers to these questions the study made use of a CBA with three land use scenarios (business as usual scenario, alternative resource utilisation scenario and the REDD+ project scenario) implemented over a period of 25 years and at a discount rate of 5%. A linear optimization- and a portfolio theory model are applied in the cultivation of the crops (palms, rubber, bananas and cocoa) in the alternative resource utilisation scenario, meanwhile a compensated reduction (CR) model is applied to the REDD+ project scenario. This study could not confirm the general claim that the REDD+ mechanism is a costeffective or low cost method for reducing emissions. A myriad of factors are decisive in determining the cost-effectiveness of the REDD+ mechanism amongst which the type of alternative land uses considered are a key factor. Moreover, the level and type of funding for REDD+ projects equally go a long way to determine the sustainability of REDD+ activities.