Energy Transitions and Climate Change Issues in Asia

The rapid pace of economic development and urbanization in Asia have led to several major problems such as greenhouse gas emissions, mass consumption, and depletion of natural resources. These problems pose a major threat to a sustainable future for Asia and are hindering many Asian countries' goal of becoming carbon-neutral by the middle of this century. Solving these problems requires a comprehensive understanding of the nature of energy consumption, exploitation of natural resources, and deterioration of the environment. To accelerate the green energy transition and promote efficient resource use in Asia, a range of policy options and joint efforts among Asian countries will be required, including carbon pricing, resource tax reform, the expansion of transition finance, support for the development of low-carbon, and resource-efficient social infrastructure. However, Asia is home to many countries, each in a different stage of economic development and with its own culture and customs. Practical implementation of these policies will require bringing together researchers, policymakers, and citizens to share their knowledge and engage in discussions to generate policy ideas that are appropriate for each country. The purpose of this book is to share theoretical and empirical knowledge and convey policy implications that can be expected to accelerate energy transition and resource use effectiveness toward a sustainable future in Asia.