Mexico Updates Climate Change Strategy

The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) formally launched Mexico’s updated National Climate Change Strategy (ENCC) at a public event attended by national legislators, civil society representatives and international guests. The revised strategy outlines Mexico’s medium and long-term climate goals and aims to guide federal, state, and municipal actions over the next 10, 20 and 40 years.

Alicia Bárcena, Minister of Environment, said the strategy is essential for achieving a clear and realistic Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0) and emphasized the federal government’s commitment to translating ambition into concrete action. “We are committed to ensuring this strategy results in tangible measures. This administration is pursuing a human-centered approach, guided by the leadership and climate expertise of President Claudia Sheinbaum,” Bárcena said. 

The updated ENCC sets an unconditional goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 35% by 2030. This target represents a reduction of 140Mt of CO₂ from a baseline of 758Mt. Bárcena noted the need to send clear signals to the productive sector and investors. “We seek sustainable investments, not investments at any cost,” she said.

Simon Stiell, Executive Secretary, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), attended the event as a guest of honor. He described the strategy as a roadmap for national prosperity and resilience. “Strong climate policy is essential not just for environmental outcomes, but for livelihoods, social development and economic stability. A solid climate plan supports prosperity across households, agriculture, education, and small businesses,” Stiell said. 

The ENCC’s development included technical and financial support from the government of Denmark, through the Danish Energy Agency. The strategy emphasizes an integrated approach across all sectors and includes adaptation, mitigation and the transition to a circular economy. It also calls for stronger climate governance and inclusive participation from all levels of government, the private sector, academia, and civil society, with specific attention to Indigenous peoples and vulnerable communities.

The event served both as an accountability forum and a call to action for collective climate engagement. Officials stated that Mexico's revised ENCC positions the country to meet international commitments and pursue a climate-resilient development path through collaboration and transparency.