Morocco has officially submitted its third nationally determined contribution (NDC 3.0) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), targeting a 53% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 and positioning the country on a path to carbon neutrality by 2050. This document reinforces the Kingdom’s status as a central player in international climate governance, just weeks ahead of the upcoming Conference of the Parties (COP) negotiations.
The Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leïla Benali, emphasized the integrated nature of this vision, combining decarbonization, social justice, and technological innovation. According to her, the Moroccan plan links climate action with the creation of sustainable jobs and an equitable transition for all regions of the country.
NDC 3.0 identifies seven priority sectors: energy, transport, industry, construction, agriculture, waste management, and forestry. It notably outlines a significant increase in renewable energy capacities, a gradual electrification of transport, improved energy efficiency, and the adaptation of industrial processes to carbon sobriety requirements.
Morocco also emphasizes climate change adaptation, taking into account water scarcity, drought, and the vulnerability of agricultural lands and coastal areas. Over a hundred projects have been incorporated into national planning, with an estimated budget of $96 billion, distributed between national measures and initiatives supported by international aid. More than 190 operational projects have been identified to realize these commitments, developed after over sixty consultation meetings involving administrations, businesses, scientific communities, and civil society, with strong female participation, reflecting open and inclusive governance.
A representative from the UNFCCC praised Morocco’s example: “Morocco demonstrates that ambitious climate policy can reconcile equitable development, economic growth, and environmental protection.” The monitoring of NDC 3.0 will be ensured through national coordination mechanisms and the regular publication of reports to guarantee alignment of actions with international commitments.
This contribution reconfirms Morocco’s reference position on the continent, combining scientific rigor, ecological ambition, and social demand, and prepares the country to play a key role in the upcoming global climate negotiations.