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Asia-Pacific is at the forefront of global discussions on sustainable development and the melding of environment and economic policies. From access to clean water to biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture - community involvement and investment when solving environmental challenges is crucial to managing local resources. In order to move towards and realise sustainable development on a larger scale, proven-successful practices at the grassroots should be contextualized and replicated across Asia-Pacific. As a group of regional experts, the Asia-Pacific Forum for Environment and Development addressed critical issues facing the region and proposed new models for equitable and sustainable development. Two programmes resulted from the forum, the APFED Showcase Programme and the APFED Awards.

Asia-Pacific faces major environmental issues, from climate change and biodiversity conservation to resource resilience and water security. As the greatest consumer of natural resources, the region is experiencing the effects of increased waste and pollution as they take a massive toll on resource availability, livelihoods and quality of life for many families. Addressing the challenges that come with climate change appears enormous and often insurmountable outside of top-down global and regional actions. Yet, local governments and communities in the region are facing these challenges head on by developing and utilizing innovative solutions to climate change and many other environmental issues.

Suva Declaration on Climate Change - Issued at the 3rd PIDF Leaders Summit, 2-4 September 2015, Grand Pacific Hotel, Suva, Fiji