REDD+ has the potential to deliver social and environmental benefits that go beyond the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, but which may also entail potential risks to people and the environment. These benefits and risks will depend on a number of factors related to national circumstances – such as how REDD+ actions are designed, as well as where, how and by whom these actions are implemented.

Safeguards are measures to protect or to avoid risks (do no harm), while promoting benefits (do good).

Seven safeguards, also known as the "Cancun safeguards", were agreed for REDD+ at the 16th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate (COP16) in 2010.