“Stricter Regulations on Plastic Usage to Be Implemented Soon”

“Mauritius requires $6.5 billion to implement its NDCs.”

During the Climate Roundtable organised by the MioD in collaboration with the HSBC and the British High Commission, the Minister of Environment, Rajesh Bhagwan, highlighted Mauritius’ vulnerabilities as a Small Island Developing State, and outlined plans to strengthen climate resilience. Key points included the announcement of stricter regulations on plastic usage, and the development of Mauritius’ first National Adaptation Plan. The Minister also emphasized the need for collaboration across sectors, actionable strategies, and financial mechanisms to address the country’s climate challenges effectively. 

During the Beyond Business as Usual: The Climate Roundtable held on December 3, Minister of Environment Rajesh Bhagwan announced that as part of its broader environmental strategy, “the government is committed to implementing tougher regulations on plastic usage to combat pollution and protect our environment.”  

This initiative is part of a comprehensive approach that includes the development of Mauritius’ first National Adaptation Plan, which will guide climate resilience efforts from 2025 onward. This plan will focus on key sectors, including water, agriculture, tourism, coastal management, disaster preparedness, fisheries, and health. Minister Bhagwan emphasized its importance, stating that it will “guide the development of bankable projects and investment strategies aligned with our climate goals.” He further emphasized that Mauritius must act decisively and independently to build its resilience, rather than relying solely on external support.  

The finance gap (to implement our NDCs) remains significant, and we must explore innovative mechanisms to bridge it

The Minister also addressed the financial challenges of responding to climate change. He referred to outcomes from COP29, where global leaders committed to scaling up climate financing to $300 billion annually by 2035. However, he described this as insufficient to meet the needs of developing nations like Mauritius.  He revealed that Mauritius requires $6.5 billion to implement its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Of this, 25% is expected to be mobilized domestically, while 65% must come from international financing.  “The finance gap remains significant, and we must explore innovative mechanisms to bridge it,” he said, urging the banking sector and private businesses to take an active role in mobilizing resources.

Minister Bhagwan underscored the critical role of the private sector in driving climate action. He acknowledged the efforts of businesses already integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, but he called for greater accountability and measurable outcomes. “Businesses must move beyond commitments and develop robust, accountable transition plans aligned with the Paris Agreement,” he stated. He encouraged companies to view climate action as a core component of their strategies, suggesting that transitioning to low-emission operations and embracing renewable energy solutions would position them as leaders in sustainable development. The minister also emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships, particularly in establishing Mauritius as a sustainable finance hub with regional impact.  

In his speech, Minister Bhagwan highlighted the need for inclusivity in the transition to a green economy, stressing that climate action must also address social and economic inequalities. This includes creating green jobs, supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to adapt to sustainable practices, and empowering vulnerable communities.  

He outlined the profound impacts of climate change on Mauritius. As a Small Island Developing State, Mauritius faces significant risks with rising sea levels, more frequent extreme weather events, and ecosystem degradation threatening its economy and livelihoods.  

“Mauritius is on the frontline of climate change,” he emphasized, highlighting a 1.39°C increase in temperature since 1951, and sea levels rising at a rate of 4.7mm per year, higher than the global average. These changes have caused extensive coral erosion, with up to 60% of reefs affected in some regions. He also described the effects on marine biodiversity and fisheries, noting a decline in fish stocks, which impacts both livelihoods and food security.  

Minister Bhagwan also pointed to increased incidences of flash floods, landslides, and waterborne diseases, and highlighted the strain on agriculture due to declining rainfall and the emergence of pests and crop diseases.  

As part of his address, the Minister reaffirmed Mauritius’ commitment to advocating for the unique needs of SIDS on the international stage. He also expressed confidence that by showcasing success in climate governance, Mauritius could inspire other nations and reinforce its reputation as a leader in sustainable development. “Mauritius contributes only 0.01% of global greenhouse gas emissions, yet our proactive measures can set an example for the world,” he said.