The recent study by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), “The Race to Net Zero: Accelerating Climate Action in Asia and the Pacific,” has highlighted that most of the countries in the Asia-Pacific region are ill-prepared to handle threats from extreme weather events and natural disasters. Lesser availability of data and resources has hindered the efforts to adapt and mitigate the issues in the region.
Escalating Climate Challenges in Asia-Pacific
The last 60 years have seen a rise in temperatures in the Asia-Pacific region, overtaking the global average. This led to an increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events and natural hazards such as tropical cyclones, heatwaves, floods, and droughts. These circumstances have caused severe loss of life, displacement, health concerns, and escalated poverty levels. Six out of the top 10 countries most impacted by these incidents are located in this region, causing disruptions in food systems, damaging economies, and unsettling societies.
Disproportionate Impact on Vulnerable Groups
Climate change and climate-induced disasters have disproportionately affected marginalized and vulnerable groups. This includes women, children, the elderly, persons with disabilities, migrants, indigenous populations, and young people in vulnerable situations. The root causes of poverty and societal inequalities get amplified by these challenges, hence impeding development progress.
Region’s Contribution to Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The Asia-Pacific region contributes to over half of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. A combination of rapid development and a large population puts the region at a critical juncture in the global climate crisis. The presence of low-lying cities and vulnerable small island states within the region further escalates these risks.
Economic Costs of Climate Change
ESCAP estimates that the average annual losses from natural and biological hazards in Asia and the Pacific reach around 780 billion USD. These losses are projected to rise to 1.1 trillion USD under a moderate climate change scenario, and to 1.4 trillion USD in the worst-case scenario. Current financing for climate action falls short of meeting the region’s needs and limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
Steps Required to Address the Emissions Gap
The energy sector could take on restructuring national energy systems and investing in renewable energy infrastructure to close the emissions gap. A transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources and promoting cross-border electricity grids would increase renewable energy shares. It is also essential to emphasize local solutions and decentralized power generation.
In terms of the transport sector, a shift to low-carbon transportation pathways, reducing transport distance through integrated land-use planning, and promoting sustainable transport modes with low-carbon or net-zero emissions could be beneficial. Moreover, vehicle and fuel efficiency should be improved.
As for international trade and investment, it’s important to integrate climate considerations into regional trade agreements. Climate-smart trade practices should be promoted, and the private sector encouraged to adopt low-carbon pathways and sustainability practices. Enhanced transparency and accountability through sustainability reporting and greenhouse gas accounting could also prove beneficial.
About UNESCAP
Established in 1947, UNESCAP is the regional development arm of the United Nations for the Asia-Pacific region. With its headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand, it comprises 53 Member States and 9 Associate Members including India. UNESCAP’s objective is to conquer some of the region’s greatest challenges by providing results-oriented projects, technical assistance, and capacity building to member States.
Last Modified: February 20, 2024