"1.2 Billion People at Risk from Climate Change... Poorest Countries Most Severely Affected"

World Bank Report

[Image source=AFP Yonhap News]

1.2 billion people worldwide are exposed to risks related to climate change, with the poorest countries being the most affected.

The World Bank (WB) stated in a report published on the 31st of last month (local time) that "1.2 billion people are exposed to at least one climate risk such as heatwaves, floods, hurricanes, or droughts," adding that "this is a problem most faced by the poorest countries."

The World Bank explained that promoting economic growth can reduce the impacts of climate change. Increasing per capita output by 10% could reduce the population vulnerable to climate change by 100 million people.

However, the World Bank assessed that economic growth alone is not sufficient to solve all the challenges. The report stated, "Countries must enact various climate information policies to build the resilience of their citizens." It added, "It is important that policies are tailored to each country's legislative context."

Axel van Trotsenburg, Managing Director of the World Bank, emphasized, "The World Bank is intensifying efforts on food and agriculture, water, ecosystems, biodiversity, social safety nets, and poverty reduction to better prepare for climate shocks."

Concerns were also raised that the warning signs of climate change revealed by the recent floods in Spain should not be ignored. In southeastern Spain, sudden heavy rains on the 29th caused 158 deaths. This is the worst loss of life in 51 years since the flood in southeastern Spain in October 1973, which resulted in 300 deaths.

Florika Fink-Hooijer, Director for Environment at the European Commission, urged action at the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity Conference of the Parties (COP16) held in Colombia, stating that humanity must face the consequences of destroying nature. She emphasized, "If we act for biodiversity, we can at least buffer some of the climate impacts," and added, "COP16 presents an opportunity to take action."