Global leaders call for urgent action on climate adaptation. Nations rich and poor must now invest to protect themselves against the effects of climate change or pay an even tougher price later, this global commission warned. Spending $ 1.8 trillion over five key areas in the next decade not only helps to buffer the worst effects of global warming, but can also generate more than $ 7 trillion in net benefits, states the report of the Global Commission on Adaptation.

More and faster action required
More work needs to be done quickly on strengthening vulnerable areas worldwide against weather extremes due to the changing climate. That conclusion is stated in the flagship report of the Global Commission on Adaptation that was presented today. As a committee member, Minister Cora van Nieuwenhuizen (Infrastructure and Water Management) underlines the conclusion that damage caused by flooding, heat, drought and flooding will increase if investments are not made quickly to prevent climate damage. For example, by strengthening coastal areas and making cities and agricultural areas future-proof to accommodate weather extremes.

"We are the last generation that can change the course of climate change, and we are the first generation to live with the consequences," said former UN chief Ban Ki-moon, chairman of the committee, at the launch of the report in Beijing. "Delay and payment, or plans and prosperity," he said, sharing a commission slogan co-chaired by Microsoft founder Bill Gates and Kristalina Georgieva, CEO of the World Bank.

• • Global Commission on Adaptation report finds that investing $1.8 trillion globally from 2020 to 2030 in five areas of climate adaptation could yield $7.1 trillion in net benefits.
  • The Commission’s report highlights many economic, social and environmental benefits of adaptation
  • Climate impacts – such as super-charged hurricanes, floods, and wildfires – are becoming an increasingly urgent reality

Read the full report: gca.org/global-commission-on-adaptation/adapt-our-world

About the Global Commission on Adaptation
The Global Commission on Adaptation aims to inspire heads of state, government officials, community leaders, business executives, investors and other international actors to prepare for and respond to the disruptive effects of climate change with urgency, determination and foresight. By accelerating climate adaptation, can we ensure that people benefit from cost-effective options, reduce risks, and come out stronger. Composed of 34 Commissioners and convened by 20 countries, the Global Commission on Adaptation brings together leaders from political, business, multilateral, and scientific worlds to identify solutions and drive action. The Commission is led by Ban Ki-moon, Bill Gates and Kristalina Georgieva. It is co-managed by the Global Center on Adaptation and World Resources Institute.