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Global climate change presents policymakers with one of the most difficult challenges possible. It involves questions of scientific research; economic and industrial policy; diplomatic outreach and exchange; technology and economic growth and development; transparent and effective governance; and moral and ethical concerns as well.
 
Enormous sums have been spent on scientific research and much has been learned, but there is much we still need to know. Research and analysis of the costs involved in mitigation and adaptation continue, as does exploration of policy options.
 
That said, there is no doubt that global climate change is real. The debates today in the scientific realm concern what drives it and the extent and direction of the change. The debates in the policy realm involve weighing costs and benefits of addressing the coming changes; and what suite of policy tools and levers should be brought to bear.
 
There is a consensus among the world’s governments that action on climate change is necessary.
 
Up until now, the formal discussion of climate change that has occurred in national capitals and at UN agencies has been of mixed utility. World Growth is hoping to help advance the dialogue on this critical issue.
 
In World Growth’s view, the dialogue has been too limited in scope and has failed to take into account the political economy and economic realities which shape attitudes to strategies to address climate change.  
 
Development of such strategies requires sober analysis, something that has been in short supply in recent years. A policy issue this important must eschew sentimental wishful thinking and must embrace a commitment to sound-headed analysis and dispassionate, objective review of facts and options. World Growth will help provide that.
 
The correct policy response to climate change involves both environmental and humanitarian considerations. No nation will jettison growth prospects to stave off climate changes that will happen in the future. As such, the proper policy response must embrace technology and market-based solutions that are in keeping with the economic growth needs of the developing and the developed worlds.