India, Oct. 4 -- Thailand faces mounting climate risks, but smart development can open new economic opportunities, the World Bank says in its newCountry Climate and Development Report. Timely investments - to adapt to the extreme weather impacts, reduce emissions, and promote green export opportunities - will help Thailand meet its aspiration of becoming an inclusive and sustainable high-income society.
Floods, heat stress, water shortages and coastal erosion could reduce GDP by 7-14 percent from baseline levels by 2050 without additional adaptation measures. On the other hand, steps to cut emissions will yield gains, including lower power and transport costs, greater energy security, enhanced air quality, and improved economic competitive...