NDC Adaptation - Water

 

Adaptation Policies and Measures in Water under the 2021 Updated NDC

Water is a critical resource for Mauritius, supporting human consumption, agriculture, industry, and ecosystems. However, climate change is intensifying water-related challenges, including erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged droughts, saltwater intrusion, and increased demand for freshwater. These issues threaten water security, food production, and public health, making it essential to implement climate-resilient water management strategies.

The updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) highlights adaptation policies and measures aimed at enhancing water availability, improving water quality, and strengthening resilience to climate-induced water stress. Key strategies include expanding water storage infrastructure, upgrading and constructing treatment plants, improving rainwater harvesting, promoting desalination, and reducing water losses in the distribution system. A particular focus is placed on Rodrigues and other outer islands, where small-scale desalination plants and enhanced rainwater harvesting systems will be implemented.

Additionally, Mauritius is integrating climate adaptation into national water policies to ensure long-term sustainability. Measures such as watershed management, wetland restoration, and the development of an improved legal and regulatory framework for water governance will further support climate resilience in the sector.

By implementing these adaptation measures, Mauritius aims to secure a sustainable and climate-resilient water supply, ensuring access to clean water for communities, industries, and ecosystems despite increasing climate pressures. These efforts will enhance national water security while supporting broader climate adaptation and sustainable development goals.

 
  • Source:  NDC Action Plan (2021 - 2030)
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  • Investment need: USD 724 million
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  • Water Resources Management: Improved forecasting, management, protection, and quality of water resources, including upgrading and building of new treatment plants and reservoirs and reducing water losses in the distribution system.
  • Rainwater Harvesting: Procurement and installation of rainwater harvesting systems and improvements in the policy, legal, and regulatory water framework in Mauritius, Rodrigues, and other outer islands.
  • Desalination: Construction of desalination plants.
  • Rodrigues: Strengthening rainwater harvesting with each household having 10-15m³ installations and establishing small desalination plants.