Micronesia, Federated States of

The Federated States of Micronesia joined the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) in 2021, committing to action to reduce short-lived climate pollutants.

Although Micronesia's contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions is minimal, the country is faced with some of the most devastating impacts of climate change. For this reason, the government has been a longstanding advocate for climate action, especially through short-lived climate pollutant mitigation, to quickly reverse the effects of climate change.

David W. Panuelo, the President of the Federated States of Micronesia, said, "the greatest chance of survival for island states and other vulnerable communities is finalizing our gameplan to save humanity. This means rapid and focused action to cut the gases warming our planet, including methane, HFCs, and black carbon. I humbly call on CCAC to assist in catalyzing accelerated action, as they can deliver results through their multi-faceted membership that unites governments, scientists, and private sector actors."

As the original proponent of the amendment to include HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons) under the Montreal Protocol, Micronesia has committed to accelerating the HFC phasedown under the Kigali Amendment domestically and internationally - helping other countries with the implementation of the Montreal Protocol. Work underway in Micronesia includes a pilot training institute that prepares refrigeration and air conditioning technicians to work with new energy efficient and climate-friendly technologies. The country is also mobilizing financing under the Kigali Amendment to support more ambitious action.

The Strategic Development Plan 2004-2023 is Micronesia's framework to achieving economic growth and self-reliance. Since Micronesia heavily relies on imported petroleum, an important goal is to decrease the import and use of petroleum fuels by 50% by 2020, and instead, focus more on renewable energy such as biofuels.

Following the Strategic Development Plan, Micronesia developed the Climate Change Act in 2014 to address and integrate climate change action across ministries. The Climate Change and Sustainable Development Council were also established in 2017 to implement the Act.

The National Solid Waste Management Strategy 2010–2014 was developed to provide guidelines to implement an integrated solid waste management plan. Its objectives are to develop policies and legislation to encourage sustainable disposal practices, operate waste treatment facilities, and enhance capacity building. The plan is set to be updated and certain states such as Yap have already developed state-specific updated waste management plans.

Find out more about Micronesia's climate and clean air actions below.