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Summary

Ad hoc use of terms in the past history of UNFCCC and Kyoto Protocol and related processes has in some instances complicated negotiations, implementation, monitoring and reporting. Therefore, Parties might consider a comprehensive set of definitions for the negotiations on reducing emissions from deforestation in developing countries ex ante.

The current process offers the opportunity to select from the very beginning established definitions from multilateral agreements, parallel processes, or international bodies, in particular IPCC or FAO. Widely used and accepted definitions should be applied wherever possible in their correct meaning. This applies particularly to the term forest degradation, which is not very well related to the attrition or accrual of carbon stocks in and emissions from a forest. New terms that might be needed should be clearly defined ex ante and their use standardised. Overall, consistent terminology will be crucial for efficient negotiations, implementation and future monitoring and reporting.

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