RESULTS OF DEVELOPING THE FOREST ENVIRONMENT AND CO2 INDEX

Abstract

The forest environment and CO₂ index were developed based on an analysis of international experience and the regulations in Vietnam's current legal documents related to forest environment, environmental indicators, and forest CO₂. Additionally, stakeholder consultations, testing, and pilot applications were conducted at relevant agencies and selected localities. The developed forest environment and CO₂ index consists of 6 criteria and 36 indicators, including: i) Criterion 1: Forest area and structure (8 indicators); ii) Criterion 2: Forest quality (7 indicators); iii) Criterion 3: Biodiversity conservation (3 indicators); iv) Criterion 4: Forest development (2 indicators); v) Criterion 5: Timber harvesting and deforestation (4 indicators); vi) Criterion 6: Forest environment and forest CO₂ (12 indicators). A methodological framework for calculating each indicator has been established, covering the following aspects: i) Concept and description; ii) Significance; iii) Calculation method; iv) Reporting period; v) Data sources; vi) Responsible agencies for data collection, synthesis, and publication.