Climate Change and Microfinance

Global warming is expected to have the greatest impact on Africa, Asia and Latin America, the regions with the poorest people. For the millions already living on the margins, the shocks— increasingly intense natural disasters, disease outbreaks and falling agricultural productivity— could push them even further into poverty.  Noting the active role microfinance institutions already play in these communities, the report highlights challenges facing them, particularly those working in agricultural regions, and provides recommendations for “climate-proofing” their existing services, including offering insurance for the most vulnerable activities.