+254 (20) 202 0285 reddplus@kenyaforestservice.org
+254 (20) 202 0285 reddplus@kenyaforestservice.org

FOREST REFERENCE LEVELS (FRL) and /or REFERENCE EMISSION LEVELS (REL)

REL is the amount of gross emissions from a geographical area estimated within a reference time period, while RL is the amount of net/gross emission and removals from a geographical area estimated within a reference time period. Reference Emission Level is the level of emission that is used to demonstrate emission reduction from reducing deforestation and forest degradation while Reference Level is the level of carbon stocks that is used to demonstrate emission reduction from conservation, sustainable forest management and enhancement of carbon stock. Both RELs and RLs are expressed in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Reference levels are the yard stick against which the achievements of Kenya on implementing REDD+ will be measured. Their construction is critical as it determines to a large extent how Kenya will be compensated for its efforts. Properly constructed reference levels will provide security to the international community that Kenya’s efforts in reducing the emission of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere are genuine, thereby raising the attractiveness of supporting Kenya’s REDD+ efforts.


Kenya should produce a national reference level, in accordance with ddecisions of the UNFCCC. The national reference level may be composed of a number of sub-national reference levels based on the ecological classification of the Kenyan territory. A further sub-division may be made on the specific REDD+ activity – e.g. a reference emission level for reducing emissions from deforestation and a separate one for forest degradation. All the territory of Kenya should be covered by at least one reference level, even if the current Forest Land area is small and the forest is just marginal.

Reference levels should be transparent, taking into account historic data and be flexible so as to accommodate national circumstances and capabilities, while pursuing environmental integrity and avoiding perverse incentives. cialisfrance24.com Developing country Parties implementing REDD+ can use a stepwise approach to construct reference levels, incorporating better data, improved methodologies and, where appropriate, additional pools. They should also update their reference level periodically, taking into account new knowledge, new trends and any modification of scope and methodologies.

Skip to content