There is enormous variety across Asian cities, reflected in the unique challenges and opportunities associated with climate change each are presented with. Despite these differences, it is possible to see a common desire to contribute towards climate action.

This publication clearly demonstrates that no matter the circumstances, cities are in a unique position to take action at the local level to address this global phenomenon. From transitioning to clean cookstoves in Afghanistan, to harnessing volcanic geothermal energy in Indonesia, and from improving access to clean water in Bangladesh, to vast flood resilience plans in the People’s Republic of China (PRC), the continent of Asia is slowly turning away from dirty and limited fossil fuels to cleaner and renewable energy sources.

Asian cities are also some of the most vulnerable to climate change, with many already feeling the impact of rising temperatures. Low-lying Pacific islands face tumultuous sea-level rise predictions, and rapidly growing mega-cities are challenged with providing urban services under stressed climatic conditions. As natural disasters become more frequent and severe under the warming climate, these cities have no option but to adapt and become more resilient. These cities are looking past the challenges to see the opportunities associated with cleaner air and water, lower congestion, and improved waste treatment. Win-wins are a commonality in these climate action cases.

This publication demonstrates some of the Asian Development Bank’s (ADB) work to support cities to address climate change and showcase their innovation in low-carbon city development. ADB hopes that by sharing these examples, other cities are inspired to drive further innovation and transform their cities to protect against climate change.