Synergies and trade-offs between Ghana's nationally determined contributions and sustainable development goals

• The study systematically examines 14 of Ghana’s NDC mitigation measures in relation to the SDGs. • A content analysis matrix was applied to map synergies and trade-offs between Mitigation measures and the SDGs. • Results show strong alignment with SDGs 7, 8, 13, and 15, but weaker interlinkages to socially oriented SDGs. • Evidence shows trade-offs from land use concerns, and socio-economic disparities, underscoring the complexities of aligning climate and development goals. • The study calls for integrated policy frameworks and innovative financing to enhance co-benefits. This study explores the interlinkages, synergies, and trade-offs between Ghana’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement against the global Sustainable Development Goals. Drawing on data from Ghana’s updated NDC (2021), Fourth Biennial Update Report (2024), Voluntary National Reviews (2021, 2023), National Climate Change Policy, and annual progress reports, the study examines 14 harmonized unconditional mitigation measures and systematically maps their interlinkages to SDGs through a content analysis matrix. The findings reveal that unconditional mitigation measures demonstrate interlinkages with 80% of the SDGs (14 out of 17), particularly in sectors like Energy, Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land Use (AFOLU), and Waste. However, socially oriented goals, such as SDGs 4, 5, 6, 16, and 17, were featured less, reflecting broader global trends where social development goals are often secondary to mitigation measures. NDC measures such as improved cookstoves, renewable energy deployment, and afforestation programs synergise most strongly with SDG 7, SDG 13, SDG 15, and SDG 8. These synergies stem from the socio-economic and environmental benefits of mitigation measures. However, evidence indicates trade-offs from land use conflicts, and socio-economic disparities, underscoring the complexities of aligning climate and development goals. Challenges such as financial constraints, institutional misalignment, and limited capacity hinder the effective implementation of mitigation measures while advancing SDGs. The study underscores the need for policy coherence, innovative financing mechanisms, and capacity-building efforts to maximize synergies and minimise trade-offs.