Climate Change Mitigation

The scientific consensus is clear that unchecked greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions will cause irreversible harm to the global climate. The main aim of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) is to stabilize GHG levels to prevent dangerous human-caused climate changes. The Paris Agreement, which is the post-2020 framework for the UNFCCC, aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C, and further efforts to keep it to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Nations commit to ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under this agreement, reflecting their unique capacities and circumstances.

Mauritius first submitted its NDC in 2015 and updated it in 2021, increasing its emissions reduction target from 30% to 40% by 2030 compared to expected levels. The same year, Mauritius also enacted the Climate Change Act (CCA) 2020 to enhance national climate governance and transform into a climate-resilient and low-emission country, thereby facilitating compliance with the Paris Agreement through 2030. The updated NDC reflects a heightened commitment to reducing GHG emissions while taking into account the country's unique circumstances and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities.

The NDCs guide the National Climate Change Mitigation Strategy and Action Plan (NCCMSAP), which targets low GHG emissions development. The NCCMSAP aims to achieve a net-zero carbon society by 2070 while accomplishing the Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing principles of sovereignty, inclusivity, intergenerational equity, and partnerships.

Additionally, the Paris Agreement mandates clear and transparent reporting on progress, requiring nations to submit Biennial Transparency Reports (BTRs) by December 31, 2024, and to establish an Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF) to track the implementation and support of NDCs. This framework is crucial for visualizing progress in climate action and ensuring accountability.

By investing in mitigation today, Mauritius can pave the way for a low-carbon and sustainable future, reducing its dependence on fossil fuels, enhancing energy security, and contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.

Importance of Climate Change Mitigation for Mauritius

Mauritius, as a small island developing state (SIDS), is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and sea-level rise threaten its environment, economy, and people. Climate change mitigation—actions aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions—is crucial for the country to minimize these risks and ensure long-term sustainability. Climate change mitigation is critical for Mauritius to protect its environment, economy, and society from the adverse effects of climate change. By transitioning to renewable energy, promoting sustainable land use, and reducing carbon emissions, Mauritius can build a more resilient and sustainable future.

Environmental Importance

• Reducing Sea-Level Rise and Coastal Erosion: Mitigation helps limit global temperature rise, slowing down the melting of polar ice caps and protecting Mauritius’ coastline from further erosion.
• Preserving Marine and Terrestrial Ecosystems: Lower emissions reduce ocean acidification and coral bleaching, which are vital for marine biodiversity and fisheries.
• Protecting Freshwater Resources: Mitigation efforts can help prevent excessive droughts and saline intrusion into groundwater, safeguarding drinking water supplies.
   

Economic Importance

• Sustaining the Tourism Industry: The Mauritian economy heavily relies on tourism, which is dependent on healthy coral reefs, beaches, and biodiversity. Mitigation helps preserve these natural assets.
• Ensuring Agricultural Productivity: Climate change affects crop yields through erratic rainfall and rising temperatures. Mitigation reduces the severity of these impacts, securing food supply and livelihoods.
• Enhancing Energy Security: Reducing reliance on fossil fuels and investing in renewable energy can stabilize energy costs and reduce Mauritius’ vulnerability to global fuel price fluctuations.
   

Social and Health Benefits

• Reducing Health Risks: Lower emissions improve air quality, reducing respiratory diseases linked to air pollution.
• Enhancing Resilience of Communities: Mitigation fosters sustainable development, ensuring a healthier, safer living environment for future generations.
• Protecting Vulnerable Populations: Poor and coastal communities are most at risk from climate change impacts. Mitigation efforts reduce these risks and support their long-term well-being.
   

Global Responsibility and Compliance

• Aligning with International Agreements: Mauritius is a signatory to the Paris Agreement and must contribute to global efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C.
• Access to Climate Financing: Committing to mitigation allows Mauritius to benefit from international climate funds and technological support for sustainable development.

• Outlined mitigation measures, adaptation priority sectors, and progress made in climate action, in compliance with UNFCCC reporting requirements.

• In June 2024, the government announced a 2% climate levy on company profits to finance projects combating climate change and restoring the natural ecosystem.

• Developed under the Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions (NAMA) for Low Carbon Island Development Strategy.
• Endorsed by the government for implementation on 30 June 2023 to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across key sectors.

• Enhanced mitigation and adaptation commitments under the Paris Agreement, detailing emissions reduction targets and sectoral strategies.  The Updated NDC (2021) commits Mauritius to a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to the business-as-usual scenario, focusing on expanding renewable energy to 60% of electricity generation, phasing out coal, and improving energy efficiency by 10%.

Climate Change Act (2020):

• Established the legal framework for climate governance in Mauritius, defining roles for key institutions and promoting resilience and low-carbon development.

• A strategic plan identifying climate-related priorities and allocating funds for mitigation and adaptation projects.

• Committed Mauritius to global climate mitigation and adaptation efforts under the Paris Agreement framework.

• Integrated and mainstreamed climate adaptation measures into national policies and development plans.