SciDev.Net: Reduced emissions from deforestation and degradation (REDD) can help conserve forests, combat climate change and eradicate poverty — so it should be a top priority for upcoming climate negotiations, says Virgilio M. Viana. Forests have historically been excluded from development strategies but they are valuable assets to individuals, families, businesses and governments, argues Viana. He adds that policymakers should be guided by a simple message: forests are worth more standing than …