Climate change
Climate change poses a key development challenge for the Maldives and many other Small Island Developing States, threatening economic and social development. The Maldives contributes less than 0.01% of global carbon emissions, yet the country is among the first to face disproportionate effects of climate change.
Climate change is a key foreign policy priority of the Maldives.
Priorities of the Government on Climate Change
- The Maldives has a national target of generating 33% of electricity through renewable energy by 2028 underscores our commitment to a low-carbon future.
- The Maldives has committed to reducing 1.52 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent by 2035.
- The Energy Policy and Roadmap of Maldives which outlines a clear vision to harness renewable energy, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and lower emissions.
The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy undertakes and coordinates national initiatives in line with the priorities of the Government of Maldives to advance the climate change agenda.
UNFCCC Conference of Parties
· Climate Change negotiations primarily take place under the auspices of United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). In these discussions, the Maldives is represented by the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy and negotiates through the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) and the Group of 77 and China. · In February 2025, the Maldives submitted its Third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC3.0). The NDC sets an ambitious emissions reduction target of 1.52 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent by 2035 conditional upon adequate support in finance, technology, and capacity-building.
· Key mitigation efforts include enhancing energy security, improving transport efficiency, and strengthening waste management systems.
· The NDC also incorporates comprehensive adaptation strategies designed to enhance resilience across critical sectors and communities, reflecting the Maldives’ dual focus on both mitigation and adaptation as a highly vulnerable SIDS.