Mauritania's Coastal Zone Facing Climate Change

The integration of climate change into public policy is emphasized in international agreements on sustainable development and biodiversity. Beyond existing general guidelines on potential climate impacts, national policymakers and international development aid donors often lack guidance on the concrete actions to be taken. The Islamic Republic of Mauritania is one of the countries most vulnerable to climate-related risks due to its maritime-focused development, despite having a coastline that is highly susceptible to submersion. Scientific research has been conducted on the climate dynamics of Mauritania's coastal and marine zones. Drawing on existing data and theoretical knowledge, the links to environmental changes are discussed in terms of the services provided by major ecosystems. This monograph, intended for policymakers, synthesizes the findings. This overview of the past six decades and the future projections put forward by experts should help prioritize issues and tailor actions accordingly.