CONTRIBUTIONS TO CLIMATE CHANGE

THE CHALLENGE OF URBANIZATION

CHALLENGES FOR THE FUTURE

REFERENCES

Despite improvements in environmental policies, priorities and management, population growth, urbanization and pollution continue to be major challenges in West Asia.

The West Asia region is in social, economic and political transition. In 2005, the region saw rapid economic growth and urbanization, fuelled by rising oil prices and capital inflows. The emerging trends of democratization and public participation in environmental management have brought improvements. However, the security situation continues to have major negative impacts on economic, social and environmental conditions (ESCWA 2005, World Bank 2005).