Setting forest reference levels (FRLs) and/or forest reference emission levels (FRELs) is one of the first steps countries need to take to benefit from REDD+. As a key component of national forest monitoring systems, FRLs and FRELs provide a baseline against which emission reductions can be measured, and subsequent results-based payments be made.
The UN Framework Convention on Climate Change does not explicitly differentiate between a FRL and a FREL, but a common understanding is:
Forest Reference Level (FRL) is a benchmark for emissions from deforestation and forest degradation and removals from sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks (all REDD+ activities).
Forest Reference Emission Level (FREL) is a benchmark for emissions exclusively from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD only).