Asia's Green Revolution: Leading the Way in Sustainable Development
Key Ideas
- Asia is emerging as a leader in green technologies such as advanced battery materials and biodegradable plastics, supported by strong industrial capabilities and policies.
- China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea are key players in the global supply chain for lithium battery technology driving transport electrification.
- Asia, particularly China, is making significant strides in the green hydrogen industry, accounting for nearly 70 percent of the world's hydrogen electrolyzer capacity.
- Despite progress, there are still challenges ahead, with varying commitment levels to sustainability across different countries in the region.
The Boao Forum for Asia released a report highlighting Asia's rapid progress in emerging green technologies, positioning the continent as a potential leader in sustainable development. The report, titled 'Sustainable Development: Asia and the World Annual Report 2025 -- Addressing Climate Change: Asia Going Green,' emphasizes Asia's advancements in renewable energy. China stands out by sourcing 85 percent of its new energy capacity from renewables, while Indonesia and Singapore lead in carbon capture and storage efforts. Additionally, China, Japan, and Korea dominate the global lithium battery supply chain crucial for transport electrification. Notably, China is spearheading Asia's green hydrogen industry, with the region holding a significant share of the world's hydrogen electrolyzer capacity. The report applauds ambitious climate targets set by major Asian emitters like China, India, and Japan. Despite these positive developments, disparities in sustainability commitment persist among Asian nations. Asia's pivotal role in combating climate change is underscored by its significant population, GDP contribution, and CO2 emissions share. The region's commitment to sustainable practices and technology innovation positions it as a frontrunner in the global green revolution.