Climate Change—Priority Agenda for Policy Makers and Opportunities for Business in Emerging Markets in Asia

Asia is fast becoming a major source of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) as a consequence of rapid and carbon-intensive economic growth. Today, developing Asia accounts for 29 per cent of global energy-related CO2 emissions—three times bigger than its share 30 years ago. Given this context, the priority agenda for the policy makers of Asia’s emerging markets, and opportunities for business are outlined. This paper then identifies key areas in which policy actions need to be taken which will lead to providing ample opportunity for business investments in the near term. Asian economies need to make large investments in energy conservation, energy efficiency, alternative energy sources, clean technology, and energy for the poor. The paper concludes that the global outcome of efforts and initiatives undertaken will depend on the collective efforts taken by policy makers, the private sector, the civil service organisations, and the development partner agencies.