The Economic Consequences of Climate Change for Afghanistan: Losses, Projections … and Pathways to Mitigation
Publisher: Afghanistan Analyst Network
Author(s): Mohammad Assem Mayar
Date: 2025
Topics: Climate Change, Economic Recovery, Governance
Countries: Afghanistan
Despite contributing minimally to global emissions, Afghanistan faces escalating economic and social crises from climate change. Climate shocks, such as from floods, droughts, landslides, avalanches and extreme temperature events, cause annual economic losses estimated between USD 550 million in a year where precipitation is ‘normal’ and USD three billion in a drought year – equivalent to between almost 3.2 per cent and more than 18 per cent of GDP. Yet, the country has not received the adaptation funds promised to the poorest countries, leaving it increasingly vulnerable to climate-related hazards. AAN’s guest author, Mohammad Assem Mayar,* has calculated the economic toll of climate change on Afghanistan, putting figures to the harm being done. This is a necessary step, he says. There are ways that climate funds could be given – despite the Islamic Emirate not being recognised – and the need for those funds to bolster Afghanistan’s resilience in the face of climate change is urgent.