Samoa has taken a significant step in climate leadership with the successful validation of its Third Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0). Overseen by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, this new strategy strengthens Samoa’s commitment to the Paris Agreement, aligning with national goals to protect communities from climate-related threats.
Chief Executive Officer of MNRE, Lealaisalanoa Frances Brown-Reupena, described NDC 3.0 as a vision for a “resilient, low-carbon Samoa.” Despite its negligible greenhouse gas emissions of less than 0.01% of the global total, Samoa aims to send a strong message about universal climate commitment. By pioneering progressive climate strategies, Samoa hopes to influence broader regional and international climate policies.
Preceding the validation workshop, a national review highlighted achievements in several areas. Notably, Samoa is advancing toward 70% renewable energy usage by 2031 through projects such as solar installations and biogas systems. The transport sector is making strides with the introduction of electric vehicles and a national clean mobility strategy. Additionally, the forestry sector has seen a 1.63% rise in forest cover rooted in community-driven agroforestry efforts. However, the country continues to face challenges like data transparency for emissions monitoring and funding shortages.
Informed by past experiences, NDC 3.0 prioritizes renewable energy expansion, sustainable transport enhancement, and nature-based solutions to protect ecosystems. Key to its approach is directing climate finance to frontline communities most affected by climate impacts.
The workshop also launched preparations for COP30, engaging varied stakeholders in anticipation of crucial negotiations in Brazil. CEO Brown-Reupena emphasized the importance of climate justice and the need for significant reductions in emissions by larger countries to save small island states from the impacts of global temperature rise beyond 1.5°C.
Acknowledgment was extended to partners, including the UNDP Climate Promise, for their support. The initiative reinforces Samoa’s dedication to climate resilience, setting demanding targets and remaining a vocal advocate for urgent and united global action.
Through NDC 3.0, Samoa reaffirms its status as a leader in the Pacific, demonstrating remarkable climate ambition and resilience while promoting comprehensive solutions through global cooperation.