Republic of Palau’s Nationally Determined Contribution 3.0 2025-2035

The Policy establishes a strategic framework to guide national efforts in climate change mitigation and adaptation for the period of 2025 to 2035. The primary objective of this instrument is to communicate Palau’s updated commitments under the Paris Agreement to the UNFCCC, focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing the resilience of its communities and ecosystems. The document aims to transition the country toward a low-carbon development path, aligning national climate targets with sustainable development goals and protecting the country's status as a net-negative emitter.
The instrument outlines specific mitigation measures across several key sectors, including energy, transport, and waste management. It sets a quantified target to reduce emissions by 73.0 ktCO2e/yr by 2035 under the "With Additional Measures" scenario, which includes enhanced carbon removals. In the energy sector, the policy emphasizes increasing the share of renewable energy sources and implementing energy efficiency standards. Regarding Land Use, Land-Use Change, and Forestry (LULUCF), the document provides for the protection and management of forests and mangroves, which serve as vital carbon sinks for the nation.
In the area of adaptation, the pathway identifies priority sectors for resilience building, specifically focusing on food security, water management, and the protection of marine and coastal ecosystems. It promotes the integrated management of coastal zones and the conservation of biodiversity as fundamental strategies to mitigate the impacts of sea-level rise and extreme weather events. The document also addresses waste management as a mitigation component, aiming to reduce emissions through improved solid waste and wastewater treatment processes.
The instrument specifies procedural requirements for monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) of climate actions. It further highlights the necessity of international cooperation, technical assistance, and financial support to achieve the stated targets. Provisions are also included for capacity building, technology transfer, and the involvement of the private sector and local communities in climate-related initiatives.