People in Asia-Pacific will be profoundly affected by climate change. Home to more than half of humanity, the region straddles some of the world’s most geographically diverse and climate-exposed areas. Despite having contributed little to the steady upward climb in the greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming, some of the region’s most vulnerable communities — from mountain dwellers to island communities — face the most serious consequences. Poverty continues to decline in this dynamic region, but climate change may undercut hard-won gains. Growing first and cleaning up later is no longer an option, as it once was for already developed countries. Developing nations need to grow and manage the climate consequences. They must both support resilience, especially among vulnerable populations, and shift to lower-carbon pathways. Emerging threats, whether from melting glaciers or rising sea levels, cross borders and demand coordinated regional and global action. There may be some uncomfortable trade-offs, but the way forward is clear — it lies in sustaining human development for the future we want. When people have equitable access to basics such as livelihoods, energy, health and pollution-free air, greater climate resilience and improved emissions management will follow. This Report outlines where transformation begins: in cleaner, more efficient production, in fair and balanced consumption, and in both rural and urban areas. Through better institutions, more accurate knowledge and changed attitudes, Asia-Pacific societies can find smarter strategies for adapting to a warmer world.

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