Trade-offs, co-benefits and safeguards: current debates on the breadth of REDD+

► REDD+ incorporates trade-offs between carbon, economic development, biodiversity, agriculture and energy. ► REDD+ can contribute to biodiversity and livelihoods if these are incorporated in design and implementation. ► REDD+ success needs to be redefined to include climate, biodiversity and livelihoods goals. ► Scientists can support the development of an integrative REDD+ through a 'learning architecture' dedicated to find durable solutions.