> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://aetlas.gitbook.io/aetlas/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://aetlas.gitbook.io/aetlas/for-project-developers/references-and-other-guidance/additional-principles-for-forestation-and-agroforestry-projects/harms-and-benefits.md).

# Harms and Benefits

PROJECT DEVELOPERS MUST

* Avoid project development on land with unclear or insecure land tenure to reduce the risk of tenure disputes and disenfranchisement of local communities. 
* Avoid violence when establishing or protecting forested areas. 

PROJECT DEVELOPERS SHOULD 

* Prioritize biodiversity and resilience by growing diverse native species, pursuing ecological restoration or natural regeneration of formerly forested areas where possible, and choosing species and seedling sources which maximize biodiversity and are capable of flourishing under future local climatic conditions. 
* Prioritize local seed stock collection methods that do not harm natural forests or reduce production of non-timber forest products and utilizes local infrastructure and seed supply chains (per Kew’s [10 Golden Rules for Reforestation](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gcb.15498)). 
* Expand the volume of seeds available to ensure adequate supply for pre-existing demand as well as accommodate increased demand from new CDR project activity. 
* Consider the impacts on biodiversity (both benefits and costs) when selecting species for forestation.