Although the Asia-Pacific region is an important part of the global economic growth, a report provides evidence that the growth has been achieved at environmental cost, which requires efforts and actions to reduce biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation and ensure sustainable future. 

The Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Asia and the Pacific provides that even though the Asia-Pacific region experienced economic growth underpinned by healthy ecosystem services and rich biodiversity and reduced poverty as well as improved the quality of life, this growth came at a high environmental cost. 

The ecosystem is facing serious threats, e.g. climate change, pollution, habitat destruction. Compared to other regions, people in the Asia-Pacific region depend more on fishing and marine ecosystems for food and livelihood security. But if current threats and unsustainable practices continue, this ecosystem is at great risk. This trend is exacerbated by climate change and increased pollution. These rapid changes further lead to increase disease and pest outbreaks. These changes are happening at an unprecedented rate and have huge impacts on economic growth and human health. However, this region is showing some positive developments. Efforts have been made to protect marine and land areas. The forest cover has increased and countries have invested some of their wealth in restoring natural habitats lost, e.g. China and Vietnam. But these efforts along are not sufficient to stop and reverse biodiversity loss. It is important for the Asia-Pacific region to prioritize effective actions and policies to stop biodiversity loss. For example, policymakers can improve biodiversity conservation by increasing economic incentives for those people that rely on forest and enhance carbon stocks. Protecting the environment brings good social, economic and political sense. Moreover, better application of scientific knowledge and technology can improve energy, water and food security and reduce risks to biodiversity and ecosystem. Furthermore, local communities could be empowered to make better-informed decisions. Biodiversity conservation must also be integrated into planning, financing and business practices, which requires private-public partnerships. Improving cross-border collaboration and regional governance is a key way to ensure shared benefits. In addition, individuals can support these policies and actions for sustainable environment and ecosystem.