For Asia, where more countries are facing greater environmental risks than in other parts of the globe, climate change is an imminent issue that could threaten the lives of people through natural disasters, displacement from homes and shortages of natural resources.
According to an environmental risk assessment published in May, Asia is home to 99 of the world’s 100 most vulnerable cities. The report found 80% of these are in India or China, while Jakarta was named the city most vulnerable to environmental hazards.
Research also shows the most marginalized people will experience the greatest impact from climate change. U.N. figures indicate that 80% of people displaced by climate change are women. Indigenous people, who comprise less than 5% of the world population, protect 80% of global biodiversity and face constant battles to preserve their livelihoods from the exploitation of natural resources.