The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has launched its Environment Action Plan 2024–2030 presenting a road map for addressing the impacts of the triple planetary crisis of biodiversity loss, pollution, and climate change in Asia and the Pacific.
Under the plan, ADB aims to expand the scale and scope of nature-positive investments and mainstream environment into relevant operations and investments, while working to conserve the environment and nature as a vehicle for economic growth and improved livelihoods.
The plan has three linked pillars: biodiversity and ecosystem management, pollution control and circular economy, and nature-based climate solutions, said an ADB press release.
It aligns with ADB’s broader commitment to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals, the Paris Agreement, and the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
“The Environment Action Plan reflects ADB’s commitment to helping guide its developing member countries toward a sustainable, resilient future,” said ADB Director of Environment Yoko Watanabe.
“With nearly half of the region’s economy dependent on nature, protecting ecosystems is not only an environmental imperative but also a pathway to sustainable development and improved livelihoods of local communities and vulnerable populations in the region.” added Watanabe.
It is estimated that $18 trillion, or over 53% of Asia and the Pacific’s economy, is directly dependent on products and services provided by biodiversity and nature.
