This purpose of this overview is to present the facts as they relate to the impacts of climate change in Latin America and the Caribbean and the responses of these two regions on economic, policy-based, institutional and other levels. It begins by outlining the effects already being faced as well as the anticipated changes while emphasising the need for greater global cooperation in mitigation efforts. To this end, it also highlights how LAC countries can contribute to the overall mitigation effort while also developing and expanding their economies.