Project Summary:

In recent decades, Moldova has undergone a profound socio-economic transition, with modest economic growth achieved in the past ten years. However, the national economy in not very diversified and highly susceptible to climate-related impacts being reliant of the agricultural sector.

Climate projections for Moldova show a consistent rise in average annual and seasonal temperatures across all regions, North, Centre, and South, throughout the 21st century. While winter precipitation may slightly increase in the northern areas, a significant reduction in rainfall is expected during summer and autumn across the country. These trends suggest that Moldova is moving toward a drier, semi-arid climate, with increasingly severe moisture deficits and higher evaporation rates, particularly in the warmer months.

Although Moldova contributes only 0.03% to global greenhouse gas emissions and has one of the lowest per capita footprints, the country is committed to ambitious climate action. The energy sector remains the main source of emissions, followed by agriculture, waste, and industry. In its updated National Determined Contribution (NDC), Moldova has set a target to cut emissions by 70% below 1990 levels by 2030, with the potential to reach an 88% reduction if supported by affordable international finance, technology, and cooperation.

The Government of Moldova has demonstrated strong climate ambition, approving its NDC 3.0 in 2025, and adopting the 2030 National Programme on Climate Change Adaptation and the Low Emission Development Programme. The country emphasizes inclusive approaches for vulnerable groups, with climate governance coordinated by the Ministry of Environment, line ministries, and the National Commission on Climate Change, chaired by the Prime Minister.

Objective:

The main objective of the project is to enhance the institutional capacities, technical expertise, and knowledge management systems necessary for addressing climate change and mobilizing climate finance in the Republic of Moldova. The project aims to drive Moldova towards climate neutrality, resilience, and contributing to global climate commitments. By strengthening these critical components, the project will support Moldova in fulfilling its national, regional, and global climate commitments.

Expected results:

• The National Designated Authority (NDA) and its coordination systems are fully functional and effectively performing their roles and responsibilities;
• Strategic climate policy frameworks are strengthened to close existing gaps, enhance sectoral expertise, and improve the enabling environment for climate action including the adaptation of NDC;
• A pipeline of high-quality project concept notes is developed and submitted to the GCF, focusing on priority sectors;
• Full funding proposals benefit from improved preparatory work, leading to increased approval rates;
• Knowledge on low-emission and climate-resilient development is systematized, with best practices identified, documented, and shared nationally and internationally.