Forests Report for COP16 Cancun for Saturday - 2:00 AM

Statement by Dr. Rosalind Reeve, Forest Campaign Manager, Global Witness

COP16 Climate Change Negotiations, Cancun

11 December, 2:00 AM Cancun

'After three years of hard negotiations we have a basis for combating deforestation integrated in an agreement on climate which marks an important step. Key to achieving the newly agreed goal of reversing forest loss are good governance and the protection of rights, biodiversity and natural forests. The safeguards embedded in the agreements on REDD and the Green Climate Fund obligate countries to ensure these outcomes. Our task is not over here. It's just beginning. The challenge now is in the detail, to turn countries' obligations into reality. If we collectively rise to this challenge we stand a chance of saving the world's forests for future generations.'

CONTACT: Don Lehr / Cancun 998 204 1849

+1 917 304 4058 / dblehr@cs.com