These factors interrelate with the scale effect of economic growth and are at the heart of a “decoupling” of GHG emissions from economic growth - a major challenge (and opportunity) currently confronting governments. This Review argues that such a “decoupling" is technologically, economically and socially feasible, if based on cost-saving and income-generating activities. From a policy-making viewpoint, this entails mainstreaming climate change in economic development policies; that is, identifying and pursuing mutually supportive mitigation, adaptation and growth strategies. But the opposite is also true: climate policies can strengthen development policies. For example, more efficient utilization of energy and materials also means greater economic competitiveness and energy security, and this in turn can fuel sustainable income-generation activities and job creation.33 Early action on climate change (pre-emptive adaptation and mitigation) is more cost-effective than delayed action (responsive adaptation and mitigation). Therefore, the corollary for developing countries whose production and technological patterns have not yet been locked in is: early movers will benefit from a competitive edge.