Columbia International Affairs Online: Working Papers

CIAO DATE: 01/2011

The Economics of Climate Change in Southeast Asia

Juzhong Zhuang, Suphachol Suphachalasai, Jindra Nuella Samson

December 2010

Centre for Non-Traditional Security (NTS) Studies

Abstract

Climate change mitigation is a global public good and requires a global solution that is built on a common but differentiated responsibility. As one of the regions highly vulnerable to climate change, Southeast Asia should play an important part in a global solution. While adaptation is the region's priority, Southeast Asia should also make greater effort at mitigation. Adaptation and mitigation actions will create economic and business opportunities, and will provide new sources of growth. Southeast Asia should seize the opportunity now to start a transition towards a climate-resilient and low-carbon economy.