The Stakes for Developing Countries

Governments, NGO's and international aid agencies must incorporate climate change into their development strategies. To act effectively, they must have answers to several critical questions: Which countries are most vulnerable to climate change? How will the distribution of energy resources affect countries' willingness and ability to accept restrictions on their carbon emissions? Are renewable energy resources sufficient for a rapid transition from fossil fuel use? What are the implications of this transition for employment and the welfare of the poor? These questions have recently been addressed by major studies at CGD, the World Bank and elsewhere, but the results have not been consolidated and interpreted for the development community. CGD will supply this information, as well as undertaking additional research on the economics of the transition to renewables in developing countries.