It is becoming increasingly clear that the problem of climate change cannot be viewed in a narrow and limited context. Scientifically, it is now established that, irrespective of what the world does to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases in the immediate future, the concentration of these gases (and particularly of carbon dioxide) would remain high for a long period of time, thereby making future climate change inevitable. Hence, whatever the human race does to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, the world is committed to continuing climate change for several decades, and possibly for centuries.

The work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has highlighted both the scientific evidence for climate change, and the twin challenges it poses for humanity. Firstly, we must display our responsibility to all living beings and the delicate ecosystems that nature has kept in balance for aeons. Secondly, we need to ensure that future generations are able to survive without undue hardship and intolerable risk. Our development path has to ensure minimal interference with the world's climate system and adequate adaptation to the change that is inevitable.

This book is co-authored by Professor Mohan Munasinghe, vice-chair of the IPCC, who is recognized as a leading international expert in assessing the nexus between climate change and sustainable development, and Dr Rob Swart, former head of the IPCC Working Group 3 Technical Support Unit, and a very knowledgeable and accomplished researcher.