ASIA: Economic Success but Uncertain Future

Abstract

The rise of East Asia, South East Asia and South economically to become the leaders of global capitalism with some 50% of output in the world market economy has one negative drawback, namely the enormous increase in CO2 emissions in this part of the world. Together with general environmental stress, Asia may come pay a heavy price for its stunning economic success, if present trends continue over the 21st century. Asia, here with Australia added, cannot just wait for the eventual implementation of the COP21 Treaty. It needs to go ahead and become the leader in environmental protection.