ClimateWorks Foundation

Together, Mexico and Brazil account for 60 percent of power sector emissions in Latin America.  For this reason, ClimateWorks’ efforts to reduce energy-related carbon emissions are currently focused on these countries.  Both countries have shown strong leadership on reducing these emissions, and they are working to develop international best practices in several industries.  This leadership provides a strong model for other nations and will buoy international negotiations.

Regional Overview Mexico
Regional Overview Brazil

Regional Overview—Mexico

Mexico is currently the highest emitter of energy-related greenhouse gases in Latin America and the 13th highest in the world. It has significant opportunities to reduce these emissions (see cost curve at right). Interventions in the power, transport, and buildings and appliances sectors—such as improving auto fuel-economy standards and making buildings and industry more energy efficient—would reduce Mexico’s emissions at a cost savings. Other options, such as expanding solar energy capacity and reforestation, are more costly but might represent cost-effective options in the future.

Mexico is the first developing country to set an emissions-reduction target: 30 percent below "business as usual" (BAU) levels by 2020. Mexico’s Special Program for Climate Change (PECC) details its plans through 2012. In addition, Mexico’s energy strategy calls for a dramatic increase in renewable energy, from 16 percent of its power in 2009 to approximately 35 percent in 2024. Mexico has also proposed innovative financing mechanisms such as the Fondo Verde (Green Fund) for global mitigation efforts.

Regional Overview—Brazil

In 2008, Brazil unveiled a national climate action plan, and in 2009, it committed to reducing its emissions by 36 to 39 percent from 1994 levels by 2020. Brazil also pledged in 2009 to reduce deforestation in the Amazon region by 80 percent by 2020. Brazil also created the Amazon Fund, which receives international financing to achieve this goal.

Brazil is also calling for energy efficiency improvements in transportation, industry, and appliance standards. Its National Energy Efficiency Policy (PNEE), if fully implemented, will reduce energy use by 8 percent by 2020, and save 106 terawatt-hours of power by 2030. The plan also calls for expanded use of biofuels and renewable energy sources, including hydro- and photovoltaic power.

ClimateWorks, through its partner organizations, provides Latin American officials with analytical support, helping them create sector-specific policies that grow the economy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Our partners provide technical assistance in designing and implementing sustainable transport systems, appliance standards, and labeling programs.