Impact of Protected Areas and REDD+ Projects on Deforestation and Development in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

forthcoming

Relocating efforts to mitigate CO2 and other greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions to low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) seems like an appealing strategy to help contain global warming below 1.5°C. The CARBONDEV project explores how socio-political factors in developing countries affect the effectiveness of carbon offset projects, particularly REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) programs and studies the broader social and political consequences of conservation projects. The project will collect data from diverse sources such as REDD+ project geographical boundaries, satellite imagery, household surveys, and conflict datasets to study the effectiveness and socio-economic impacts of forest conservation programs. This action, unfolding at Nova SBE in Portugal under the guidance of Prof. Alex Armand will explore these research questions while offering training and career development and greatly enhancing my skills and fostering my career prospects. By conducting the project at Nova SBE, I'll broaden my network, strenghten my scientific skills at the intersection of development and environmental economics, and leverage my expertise in impact evaluation, econometrics, and spatial data analysis to expand their research capacity.