The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has reaffirmed its commitment to climate action by launching its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) 3.0 and a new Methane Roadmap during COP30, held at the Moana Pavilion in Belém, Brazil. Elina Akinaka, the FSM Minister for Climate Change and Head of Delegation, emphasized that these new documents represent a significant advancement in their policy frameworks, showcasing collective aims to act and innovate in response to climate challenges.
The updated NDC outlines FSM’s ambitious yet realistic approach to balancing national priorities with its global climate responsibilities. The newly introduced Methane Roadmap aims to mitigate methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas, through practical and transformative strategies. Akinaka highlighted that the success of these initiatives relies heavily on collaborative efforts among government agencies, local communities, regional partners, and development institutions, advocating for a partnership spirit that has guided FSM’s climate initiatives thus far.
Coral Pasisi, Director for Climate Change at the Pacific Community (SPC), commended FSM’s efforts, calling the announcement a “remarkable milestone” that represents a new chapter of climate ambition and unity in the Pacific region. She pointed out the inherent complexities of aligning the interests of FSM’s diverse states and islands, demonstrating the significant effort behind this initiative.
Among the notable features of FSM’s NDC 3.0 are the goals to increase renewable energy access and decrease dependence on imported fuels, aiming for 70% renewable energy in electrification by 2030 and 80% by 2035. Additional targets include ecosystem restoration activities, improved management of marine resources, and conservation of terrestrial ecosystems, highlighting the comprehensive nature of FSM’s commitment to sustainability.
Support for FSM’s ambitions comes from the SPC and the Regional Pacific NDC Hub, along with donor assistance from the European Union and the Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. This collaborative framework aims not only to streamline implementation but also to ensure that vital resources and capacities are in place for achieving these climate goals.
With increasing awareness of pressing climate-related risks, FSM’s proactive commitments reflect a broader trend in the Pacific region, where nations are recognizing the urgency of climate action and working together to advance their climate agendas. The collective resolve shown by FSM at COP30 serves as a hopeful example of how small island nations can drive significant change in global climate action.
As FSM and other Pacific nations take definitive steps toward bold climate goals, there is a renewed sense of optimism around achieving lasting solutions to the climate crisis. Their collaborative efforts underscore the importance of unity and inclusive approaches in addressing critical environmental challenges, setting a standard for resilience and sustainable development in the region.