How much does the Indigenous community actually benefit from REDD+ programs?

Carbon credit mechanisms have gained considerable attention as a market-based approach to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Indigenous communities demonstrate potential in mitigating climate change since they possess a significant portion of Earth's territories, including intact forest landscapes with high biodiversity. However, there are divergent views on how REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) may affect the rights of forest-based communities. Indigenous peoples and scientists have voiced distinct opinions on REDD+ due to its associated risks and opportunities. This research conducted a literature review on the actual benefits of REDD+ carbon credit offset projects for indigenous people, collecting qualitative data from 10 selected initiatives. The analysis compared these specifics among themselves and against REDD+ criteria, revealing significant differences between the Plan Vivo and VCS standards. Plan Vivo appears to be a more favorable option for initiatives aimed at supporting and empowering Indigenous populations. The pervasive lack of transparency in voluntary carbon credit transactions is a critical and urgent issue that undermines the effectiveness of these initiatives. Without transparency, it is impossible to thoroughly analyze projects or establish meaningful connections among all stakeholders. This deficiency is further evidenced by poor grades in benefit distribution, suspicious deforestation rates, and inadequate Indigenous stakeholder engagement in analyzed projects.