Tonga Low Emission Development Strategy 2021-2050.

The Tonga Low Emission Development Strategy is a national policy with a multi-sectoral approach. The timeframe of this strategy is 30 years covering the period between 2021 and 2050. The objective of the strategy is to achieve a low emissions Tonga, where all sectors work together to create resilience, autonomy and self-reliance. The Government of Tonga aims to reduce GHG emissions in support of the long-term temperature goal of the Paris Agreement. Seven principles which guide this Strategy are defined by stakeholders as environment, inclusivity, autonomy, culture, traditional knowledge, education and core values. The key nationally determined contributions are: (I) 13% reduction in GHG emissions by 2030 compared to 2006 through 70% renewable electricity; (II) establishment of a forest inventory and planting one million trees by 2023; and (III) expansion of the formal waste collection system.
In the energy sector, standards will be promoted to establish renewable energy, energy efficient infrastructure and battery storage facilities. This Strategy lays down actions to achieve: 100% renewable electricity by 2035; high standards for technologies, infrastructure and retrofitting; education to support jobs; private sector funds for renewable energy projects; and upgrades to electricty grids. GHG emissions will be reduced in the transport sector through sustainable maintenance of transport, knowledge production, enforced regulation and decentralisation of services.
The resilience of the fisheries and agriculture, forestry and land use (AFOLU) sectors to the impacts of climate change will be increased through low emissions, low costs, sustainable systems, public-private partnerships, data collection, management and accessibility, and the expansion of marine protected areas and special management areas. Agro-forestry and home gardening will be enhanced and the productivity and diversity of agroforestry will be improved. Best practices will be promoted in the agriculture, forestry and fisheries sectors.
Waste management will be strengthened in a sustainable and climate-friendly manner through reduced waste production and sustainable waste disposal. A national waste strategy will be developed and implemented. Waste infrastructure and management will be improved. Education, awareness raising, traditional knowledge and use of local/recycled goods will be promoted to ensure sustainable waste management. Biogas plants will be established by 2030.