SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation) is an association of countries including Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Afghanistan. These countries come in the category of developing countries (Non-Annex-1 countries). Role of CDM as a tool for attracting clean energy investments can thus be explored for the environmental, social, economical and technological well being of the region.

The performance graph of registered CDM projects indicates that while India has registered a fair number of CDM projects (approximately 300), other SAARC countries have registered a total of only 10 CDM projects.

There is considerable scope in promoting CDM in these developing countries, which would help in improving the quality of life of the rural poor and mitigating climate change. Facilitating geographical distribution of CDM projects in these countries will enhance technology transfer and sustainable development in the region.