Côte d’Ivoire targets carbon-neutral economy by 2035

Côte d’Ivoire sets bold climate goals on World Environment Day

Abidjan, 5 June 2026 – On World Environment Day, marked this year under the global theme “Air – Act for Climate,” Côte d’Ivoire has reaffirmed its commitment to building a resilient, low-carbon economy that prioritizes environmental protection.

The government, represented by Minister of Environment, Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition Abou Bamba, highlighted its determination to make ecological transition a cornerstone of sustainable development and inclusive growth. With climate change impacts intensifying—including erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, soil degradation, coastal erosion, and recurring floods—the authorities are accelerating reforms to bolster national resilience.

“Our objective is clear: to construct an economy that is resilient, low in carbon emissions, and environmentally sustainable,” the government stated, stressing that this vision aligns with Côte d’Ivoire’s international commitments, particularly those outlined in the Paris Agreement.

Key measures have been introduced to support this transition, including:

• A revamped Environmental Code
• A dedicated Climate Change Act
• The establishment of the National Climate Change Commission
• Stricter environmental and social impact assessments

Côte d’Ivoire is also implementing its third generation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), aiming for a 33.07% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 while working toward long-term carbon neutrality.

The country has further solidified its role as a regional leader in climate finance by hosting the regional office of the Green Climate Fund in Abidjan.

Addressing air quality—the central focus of this year’s observance—authorities have installed a network of monitoring sensors across urban centers. The Ivorian Anti-Pollution Centre (CIAPOL) continues to enforce strict regulations on industrial polluters.

However, Minister Bamba emphasized that government action alone cannot address environmental challenges. He urged citizens, local governments, private enterprises, and civil society organizations to adopt more sustainable practices and reduce pollution at all levels.

The national campaign, themed “Be the solution, not the pollution!”, calls for collective action to safeguard natural resources and enhance public well-being.

Beyond environmental protection, the transition presents economic opportunities, including job creation in green sectors, improved food security, and growth in renewable energy, sustainable transport, and eco-friendly construction.

To report environmental violations, citizens are encouraged to call the toll-free hotline 1372. The government reiterated that building a “great nation” depends fundamentally on preserving the environment and its natural resources.