2024-10-31 16:46:00
(Washington) Economic development and rising incomes should help reduce the number of people who are most vulnerable to climate change in the world, currently estimated at 1.2 billion, underlines a World Bank report published Thursday.
Posted at 12:46 p.m.
“A 10% increase in GDP per capita would reduce the number of most vulnerable people by around 100 million,” explains the World Bank in this report.
“It is therefore important to improve incomes, but countries must also adopt a series of climate-sensitive policies to strengthen the resilience of populations,” it is specified.
There are currently 1.2 billion people around the world facing risks that require them to change their lifestyle, such as heat waves, floods, hurricanes or drought.
“The sad reality is that all countries can be affected by climate change, but this challenge is most severe for the world’s poorest countries,” said Axel van Trotsenburg, Managing Director of the World Bank.
The Washington-based institution thus believes that “the richest countries should give priority to the modernization of their existing infrastructures”.
As for “low-income countries – where much of the infrastructure is still under development – [ils] have the opportunity to build them sustainably from the start.”
“Economic growth and strengthening resilience to climate change go hand in hand,” the World Bank further underlined.
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**Interview with Dr. Emily Hart, Climate Economist at the World Bank**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Hart. The recent World Bank report outlines the connection between economic development and climate vulnerability. Can you elaborate on how economic growth specifically impacts the number of people vulnerable to climate change?
**Dr. Hart:** Absolutely, and thank you for having me. The report shows that improving economic conditions—like a 10% increase in GDP per capita—could significantly reduce the vulnerable population. In fact, this increase could potentially lift around 100 million people out of that category. Economic development fosters resilience by improving access to resources, education, and infrastructure.
**Editor:** That’s a substantial number. What do you think are the most effective ways to promote economic growth in regions that are currently most affected by climate change?
**Dr. Hart:** Great question. There are several strategies! Investing in renewable energy technologies, enhancing agricultural productivity, and improving education and vocational training are crucial. Additionally, we must focus on sustainable infrastructure development to ensure that growth is not only rapid but also environmentally sound.
**Editor:** You’ve touched on sustainability. How important is addressing environmental concerns while driving economic growth in reducing climate vulnerability?
**Dr. Hart:** It’s vital. Growth should not come at the expense of the environment. Sustainable practices not only protect ecosystems but also offer economic opportunities. For example, the green economy can create millions of jobs while safeguarding our planet. Balancing these aspects is essential for long-term resilience.
**Editor:** Looking ahead, what role do you see for international cooperation in tackling these challenges?
**Dr. Hart:** International cooperation is key. Climate change knows no borders, and collective action is necessary to share technology, finance, and best practices. Developed nations have a responsibility to support developing regions through investments and knowledge transfer to build the resilience needed to combat climate change effectively.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Hart, for your insights. It’s clear that economic growth and sustainability must go hand in hand to combat climate vulnerability effectively.
**Dr. Hart:** My pleasure! It’s a crucial discussion, and I’m hopeful that through collaboration and smart policies, we can make significant progress.
