The Paris Agreement, adopted by 196 countries in 2025, aims to limit global temperature rise to no more than 2°C. Under the treaty, each country outlines its plans to reduce emissions and adapt to climate change through Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
In Papua New Guinea (PNG), a national consultation brought together government representatives, provincial leaders, youth and gender groups, civil society, the private sector, and development partners to discuss how the country’s third NDC can be transformed into tangible results for its people. The discussion focused on translating commitments into practical actions that address the country’s unique climate vulnerabilities.
As a highly climate-vulnerable nation, PNG is already experiencing the effects of climate change, which disproportionately impact women and young people. Mainstreaming gender equality and youth empowerment is a key priority for the third NDC. UNDP Resident Representative Nicholas Booth emphasized that NDC 3.0 must go beyond commitments on paper by integrating energy access, gender equality, social inclusion, youth engagement, and nature-based solutions into credible, implementable actions backed by coherent policies, strong institutions, and effective financing networks.
Debra Sungi, Acting Managing Director of PNG’s Climate Change and Development Authority (CCDA), highlighted the importance of aligning NDCs with the country’s Vision 2050 while focusing on practical and achievable targets. She noted the need for greater investment in infrastructure, early warning systems, health, and food security, building on progress since PNG’s first NDC in 2016 and subsequent Biennial Transparency Reports.
The inputs gathered during the consultation will inform the finalization of PNG’s NDC 3.0 ahead of national validation in 2026, ensuring that it is inclusive, ambitious, and grounded in the country’s priorities, while unlocking real action, investment, and impact for communities across Papua New Guinea.
