Climate Change Resilience Deficit in Asia-Pacific Countries

• 12 May 2023

For Prelims: Net-zero emissions, Greenhouse gas emission, Global climate crisis

For Mains: Impact of climate-induced disasters on vulnerable groups in the Asia-Pacific region, economic costs associated with climate change

Why in News?

A recent study, "The Race to Net Zero: Accelerating Climate Action in Asia and the Pacific," by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) has revealed that most countries in Asia and the Pacific are inadequately equipped to manage the growing threats posed by extreme weather events and natural disasters.

• The study emphasizes the lack of necessary data and resources to support adaptation and mitigation efforts in the region.

What are the Key Highlights?

• Escalating Climate Challenges in Asia-Pacific:
  • Increasing temperatures in the region over the past 60 years have surpassed the global average, leading to more frequent and intense extreme weather events and natural hazards.
  • Tropical cyclones, heatwaves, floods, and droughts have resulted in significant loss of life, displacement, health issues, and heightened poverty levels.
  • Out of the top 10 countries most affected by such disasters, six are located in the Asia-Pacific region, causing disruptions in food systems, damaging economies, and undermining societies.
• Disproportionate Impact on Vulnerable Groups:
  • Climate change and climate-induced disasters disproportionately burden marginalized and vulnerable groups, including women, children, the elderly, persons with disabilities, migrants, indigenous populations, and young people in vulnerable situations.
  • The underlying drivers of poverty and societal inequalities are intensified by these challenges, hindering development progress.
• Region's Contribution to Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
  • The Asia-Pacific region is responsible for more than half of the world's greenhouse gas emissions.
    • Rapid development, coupled with a significant population, places the region at a critical position in the global climate crisis.
  • Many low-lying cities and vulnerable small island states are located within the region, exacerbating the risks faced by these areas.
• Economic Costs of Climate Change:
  • ESCAP estimates the annual average losses from natural and biological hazards in Asia and the Pacific to be around 780 billion USD.
    • These losses are projected to increase to 1.1 trillion USD under a moderate climate change scenario and 1.4 trillion USD under 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:
  • Closing the Emissions Gap:
    • Energy Sector:
      • Restructuring national energy systems and investing in renewable energy infrastructure.
      • Transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.
      • Promoting cross-border electricity grids to increase the share of renewable energy.
      • Emphasizing local solutions and decentralized power generation.
    • Transport Sector:
      • Shifting to low-carbon transportation pathways.
      • Reducing transport distance through integrated land-use planning.
      • Encouraging sustainable transport modes with low-carbon or net-zero emissions.
      • Improving vehicle and fuel efficiency.
    • International Trade and Investment:
      • Integrating climate considerations into regional trade agreements.
      • Promoting climate-smart trade practices.
      • Encouraging the private sector to adopt low-carbon pathways and sustainability practices.
      • Increasing transparency and accountability through sustainability reporting and greenhouse gas accounting.

What is UNESCAP?

• About: The UNESCAP is the regional development arm of the United Nations for the Asia-Pacific region.
  • It has 53 Member States and 9 Associate Members from Asia-Pacific Region including India.
• Established: 1947
• Headquarters: Bangkok, Thailand
• Objective: To overcome some of the region’s greatest challenges by providing results-oriented projects, technical assistance and capacity building to member States.

Source: DTE