Tunisia is set to participate in the 31st Conference of Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, scheduled to take place in Antalya, Turkey, from November 9-20, 2026. The country's participation aims to achieve more ambitious climate goals, as outlined in its updated nationally determined contribution (CDN 3.0). This marks a significant shift in Tunisia's approach, as it targets a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
For the first time, Tunisia is aiming for an absolute and net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, which include not only carbon dioxide but also methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases. The country is not only seeking to slow the growth rate of emissions but also to decrease the overall quantity of gases released into the atmosphere. Tunisia has raised its ambitions regarding carbon intensity reduction in its updated nationally determined contribution.
Tunisia's updated nationally determined contribution targets a reduction in carbon intensity of 46.4% by 2030 and 62% by 2035, compared to 2010 levels. This represents a significant increase from the previous targets set in 2017-2022. However, achieving these goals poses a challenge in terms of mobilizing investments, financing, and necessary technologies, which will be a key topic of discussion at the Antalya summit.
Tunisia aims to reduce carbon intensity by 31% through domestic efforts, while the remaining 31% reduction is contingent on mobilizing external financing and technology transfer. The country's net national emissions are expected to decrease from approximately 35 million tons of CO2 equivalent in 2010 to 23.2 million tons by 2035, representing a 34% reduction compared to 2010 levels.
If no mitigation measures were taken, Tunisia's emissions could have risen to 47.5 million tons of CO2 equivalent. Per capita emissions are also expected to decrease by 31%, from 2.55 tons of CO2 equivalent per person in 2010 to 1.77 tons by 2035. The energy sector is expected to account for around 80% of the programmed emission reductions and 87% of mitigation investments.
Tunisia's strategy focuses on adopting renewable energy sources, aiming for at least 50% of the electricity mix to come from renewables by 2035, alongside reducing primary energy intensity by an annual rate of 3.5%. The country will also implement energy efficiency projects and programs across various sectors. Despite its limited contribution to global emissions, Tunisia faces significant challenges in adapting to the impacts of climate change.
According to Radio Tunis, Tunisia's participation in the Antalya summit reflects its commitment to addressing climate change. The country's efforts to reduce emissions and transition to renewable energy sources are crucial in the face of growing global concerns about climate change. With its updated nationally determined contribution, Tunisia is taking a proactive approach to mitigating the effects of climate change.
Key points
- Tunisia aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 34% by 2035 compared to 2010 levels.
- The country targets a reduction in carbon intensity of 46.4% by 2030 and 62% by 2035.
- Tunisia's energy sector is expected to account for around 80% of emission reductions and 87% of mitigation investments.
