The NDC Partnership is a network of over 120 countries, facilitated by UNFCCC, that is dedicated to helping each other strengthen their Paris Agreement Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) Pledges. The Partnership has just released Version 3.0 of the NDC Navigator, an interactive tool that supports the development of updated country NDCs to be submitted in 2025. Below are Climate Scorecard Country Managers’ advice to their countries of what needs to be done to strengthen their NDCs based on the framework of the NDC Partnership Navigator.
María Luisa Albores González, Ministry of the Secretary of the Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT)
Dear María Luisa,
I am the Climate Scorecard Project Country Manager for Italy. Climate Scorecard is a non-profit organization working to strengthen climate mitigation and adaptation efforts in leading greenhouse gas-emitting countries.
I am writing to recommend how Mexico can enhance its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) by utilizing the new NDC Navigator Version 3.0, recently released by the NDC Partnership. This powerful tool offers crucial insights into aligning NDCs with the objectives of the Paris Agreement. The Partnership recently issued Navigator Guidelines to countries for strengthening their NDCs that can be accessed by clicking https://ndcnavigator.org/routes/
Below, I present strategic advice for pursuing three key routes to strengthen Mexico’s NDCs: alignment with the Paris Agreement temperature goal, adaptation goals, and ensuring a just and equitable transition.
Route #1: Aligning Mexico’s NDC with the Paris Agreement Temperature Goal
Key Questions to Address:
- How can Mexico enhance its ambition and set more aggressive targets to limit global warming to 1.5°C?
- What sectoral decarbonization pathways are required to achieve net-zero emissions, and how can these be embedded into Mexico’s NDC?
- What role will short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) play in meeting emission reduction targets?
Suggested Approach: To align more closely with the Paris Agreement’s temperature goal, Mexico should set more ambitious targets that clearly define the pathway to limiting global warming to 1.5°C. This includes setting intermediate targets for 2030 and beyond and specifying net-zero goals by 2050. Mexico can strengthen its sectoral decarbonization strategies, particularly in the energy, transportation, and agriculture sectors, by integrating specific roadmaps that outline emission cuts. Addressing methane and other short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) should be prioritized, given their outsized impact on near-term warming.
Moreover, Mexico should look into integrating renewable energy faster, reducing fossil fuel subsidies, and committing to ending deforestation practices. These measures will ensure that Mexico remains within its carbon budget and contributes significantly to the global effort.
Route #2: Aligning Mexico’s NDC with the Paris Agreement Global Goal on Adaptation
Key Questions to Address:
- How can Mexico improve resilience to climate impacts across vulnerable sectors, such as agriculture, water, and infrastructure?
- What adaptation measures can be prioritized in the updated NDC to protect communities from the adverse effects of climate change?
- How can the NDCs incorporate adaptive capacity at the local and regional levels?
Suggested Approach: Mexico should enhance its focus on adaptation by integrating measures that build resilience in climate-vulnerable sectors, including agriculture, water resources, and coastal management. The updated NDC should include specific targets for flood management, drought preparedness, and food security. Incorporating localized adaptation strategies—particularly for regions most affected by extreme weather events—will be essential for improving communities’ resilience.
Additionally, Mexico can explore opportunities for nature-based solutions, such as reforestation, wetland restoration, and sustainable agricultural practices. These not only help mitigate climate impacts but also build resilience. Furthermore, adaptation efforts should be gender-sensitive and community-driven, ensuring that marginalized populations are protected and empowered.
Route #3: Supporting a Just and Equitable Transition
Key Questions to Address:
- What measures can Mexico implement to ensure a just transition for workers and communities affected by the low-carbon transition?
- How can the NDCs include policies that safeguard vulnerable populations from the socio-economic impacts of climate change?
- How can climate finance be allocated equitably to support a fair transition?
Suggested Approach: A just transition must prioritize social justice, ensuring that no one is left behind in the shift to a low-carbon economy. Mexico can focus on providing retraining programs and economic support for workers in industries likely affected by decarbonization, such as the fossil fuel sector. Establishing safety nets and reskilling opportunities will be essential for a smooth transition.
Additionally, Mexico should ensure that the benefits of climate action—such as cleaner air, green jobs, and energy access—are distributed equitably across society. Rural and Indigenous communities should be involved in decision-making to guarantee that their voices and needs are heard. Climate finance from domestic sources and international contributions should be directed toward vulnerable populations to ensure an inclusive and equitable approach.
Conclusion
The NDC Navigator Version 3.0 provides Mexico with a robust framework to strengthen its climate commitments and achieve a more sustainable and just future. By addressing the above questions and making informed policy decisions, Mexico can play a crucial role in meeting global climate goals while enhancing domestic resilience and promoting social equity.
We look forward to seeing Mexico’s updated NDCs, which will reflect these strengthened commitments and contribute to the success of the Paris Agreement.
Sincerely,
Pablo Necoechea
Mexico Country Manager at Climate Scorecard