Within the context of the global Framework, this World Bank document released at Copenhagen on Dec 8, 2009 identifies the climate challenges in South Asia. It outlines the broad parameters of a response that is consistent with the development priorities of the region. It aims to help South Asian countries to begin a process that would build climate-resilient economies that grow along a low-carbon trajectory.

This reports says that World Bank is to support the development priorities of countries in South Asia by addressing climate change related risks and harnessing development opportunities that promote low-carbon growth.

Geography coupled with high levels of poverty and population density has made South Asia especially vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The region faces daunting climate?related development challenges. Impacts ranging from of higher temperatures to more variable precipitation and more extreme weather events are already being felt in South Asia. It has been projected that these will intensify.

Three unique factors that make South Asia vulnerable to the impacts of climate change: Poverty and population increase; Threats to water supply and agriculture; and Vulnerability to natural disasters.

There is need for regional cooperation.

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