Special Climate Change Programme (PECC)

The Special Climate Change Programme (Programa Especial de Cambio Climático, PECC) is a key public-policy instrument in Mexico that coordinates and steers the federal government's actions on climate change mitigation and adaptation. It derives from the General Law on Climate Change (LGCC) and the National Development Plan, and acts as a roadmap for different sectors to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and protect the population from climate risks. It is drawn up periodically to give continuity and coherence to Mexico's international commitments and national sustainability goals.

What is the PECC?

The PECC is a strategic document that sets objectives, strategies and specific lines of action to address climate change. Its main function is to articulate the efforts of various government bodies, such as the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT), the Secretariat of Energy (SENER) and others, so that public policies are integrated across sectors and concrete targets for emissions reduction and resilience are met. The PECC also defines performance indicators, implementation timelines and responsibilities for each body, promoting transparency and accountability.

Main objectives

GHG mitigation

Designing and implementing measures that reduce emissions in key sectors such as energy, industry, transport and agriculture, including the transition to clean energy and improved energy efficiency.

Adaptation and resilience

Developing strategies to address climate impacts in vulnerable areas, including integrated water management, ecosystem protection and infrastructure resilient to extreme events.

Institutional coordination

Aligning climate policies with economic and social development plans, ensuring that government bodies work together towards shared goals.

Evaluation and monitoring

Establishing indicators and monitoring mechanisms to measure progress and the effectiveness of the actions taken, so the strategy can be adjusted where necessary.

Scope and implications

The PECC is not limited to a single body or programme; its actions span different levels of government and productive sectors. In transport, for example, it promotes sustainable mobility projects and fleet modernisation, while in agriculture it encourages more sustainable practices and the rational use of fertilizers. At state and municipal level, the PECC inspires local policies that strengthen community resilience, protect biodiversity and promote ecosystem restoration, and it encourages private-sector participation in the energy transition and cleaner production.

Challenges and opportunities

Despite its importance, the PECC faces challenges such as insufficient funding, the need for effective coordination between government bodies, and the consistent application of measures across the country. Some industries are still reluctant to transform their processes because of upfront costs or regulatory uncertainty. At the same time, the PECC offers a major opportunity to drive innovation and competitiveness through clean technologies, green jobs and access to international climate finance, while strengthening Mexico's standing in global climate action.

A tool for a low-carbon future

The Special Climate Change Programme is a fundamental tool for steering Mexico towards a more resilient, low-carbon future. By involving multiple government bodies, economic sectors and social actors, it enables coordinated action to tackle the complexity of climate change. It connects to wider frameworks such as the Paris Agreement and to climate change mitigation and climate resilience strategies.

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