Best Practices: Climate Change

 

Mauritius, as a small island developing state, is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The following case studies illustrate how Mauritius is actively implementing strategies to combat and adapt to climate change, emphasizing both mitigation and adaptation to safeguard its environment and community against future impacts

Renewable Energy Adoption

Case Study: "Sarako PVP Co. Ltd. Solar Farm"

Sarako operates one of the largest solar farms in Mauritius, generating substantial amounts of clean energy and significantly reducing the island's dependence on imported fossil fuels. This project contributes to the national goal of increasing renewable energy's share in the energy mix.

UNFCCC

Coastal Resilience Enhancement

Case Study: "Mauritius Coastal Restoration Project"

This initiative focuses on restoring and protecting coastal mangroves, which act as natural barriers against storm surges and erosion. It also involves constructing artificial reefs to support marine biodiversity and protect shoreline infrastructure.

Energy Efficiency in Buildings

Case Study: "Ebene CyberCity Smart Buildings"

Buildings in Ebene CyberCity have been designed or retrofitted with energy-saving technologies, including automated lighting systems, energy-efficient air conditioning, and smart meters that help manage and reduce energy consumption.

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Public Awareness and Education Campaigns

Case Study: "Climate Change Awareness Programme by the Mauritius Institute of Education"

Programmes aim to train educators and and consequently school children about the causes and impacts of climate change, as well as actions everyone can take to mitigate these effects. 

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Sustainable transport systems

Case Study: “Electric Buses and Light Rail System”

Metro Express Light Rail spans 20 stops in densely populated areas, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and traffic congestion. Moreover, electric buses powered by renewable energy enhance connectivity to reduce GHG emissions by 40% by 2030. Additionally, smart digital applications are developed to help commuters effectively plan their journeys.

Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM)

Case Study: "Mauritius IWRM Plan"

This plan coordinates the management of water resources across various sectors to ensure sustainable water use. It includes strategies for water conservation, quality management, and ecosystem support, helping to balance demand with the island's water supply capacities.

Green Finance Initiatives

Case Study: "Sustainable financing by the State Bank of Mauritius"

The State Bank of Mauritius issues facilitates green, or sustainable, financing renewable energy projects, energy-efficient infrastructure, and other climate-positive initiatives. Green bonds are generally provided by banks to provide essential funding for projects that contribute to environmental sustainability.

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Climate Adaptation in Tourism

Case Study: "Eco-certified Hotels Initiative"

Several hotels in Mauritius have obtained eco-certification by adopting practices like water conservation, energy efficiency, and waste reduction. These hotels serve as examples of how the tourism industry can operate sustainably and protect the coastal environment.

Examples

Biodiversity Conservation for Carbon Sequestration

Case Study 1: "Control of Invasive Species in Black River Gorges National Park"

The park has implemented a programme to eradicate invasive plant species like the Chinese guava, which threatens the native biodiversity. The project includes manual removal and the use of biological control agents, helping to restore native ecosystems. These management actions help restore native flora and improve habitat conditions for endemic wildlife.

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Case Study 2: Carbon Offset Programme in Bel Ombre and in La Ferme Bambous"

This project involves local and international stakeholders and focuses on enhancing carbon sequestration through reforestation and sustainable management. It generates carbon credits that are sold to help finance ongoing conservation efforts.