The present report is the fourth in a series of reports published every five years on environmental trends in the region. The report looks at the prevailing environmental conditions in the terrestrial, aquatic and atmospheric systems and highlights the responses to environmental problems. It examines the relationship between environmental change and economic and social conditions. In addition, it reviews the national and regional responses to the problems of environment and sustainable development. It also presents key emerging issues in human ecosystems, which are described in terms of urban environment, wastes, poverty and food security. Finally, the report identifies key challenges and areas in which urgent action is needed, particularly in regard to regional and international collaboration efforts.

The Asia and Pacific region is home to the world’s largest concentration of coral reefs and mangroves. It accommodates two-thirds of the world’s human population and its economic activities have the highest growth rate in the world. This book gives an overview of the state-of-the-art understanding on the drivers, state, and responses to the coastal environmental changes in the Asia and Pacific region. It provides important perspectives on the subject for researchers.

This publication is the fifth in a series of reports published every five years on environmental trends in the Asia and Pacific region. The 2005 report examines the pressures on the environment arising from the region's rapid economic growth given its relatively limited carrying capacity and changing consumption and production patterns. Findings include that although member governments have made progress in improving environmental performance (such as in relation to environmental governance policy and measures to control pollution), a greater focus on the eco-efficiency of production and consumption activity and investment in natural resources is needed to achieve real environmental sustainability. In line with the theme of 5th Ministerial Conference on Environment and Development , held in Seoul, Republic of Korea, the publication elaborates on "green growth" policy measures as a key requirement for achieving MDG 7 (environmental sustainability) and MDG 1 (poverty reduction).