Adapting to the ecological impacts caused by climate change will cost developing countries $75 - 100 billion (£46 – 63 billion) a year, a new study has warned.

The research, carried out by The World Bank, said the costs refer to the years 2010 to 2050, during which time temperatures are predicted to rise by two degrees.

Katherine Sierra, World Bank vice president for sustainable development, explained the price would come from huge additional infrastructure costs, as well as the effects of drought, disease and a dramatic drop in agricultural productivity.

The East Asia and Pacific region would face the highest costs per year, closely followed by Latin America and the Caribbean, and Sub-Saharan Africa.

Almost $3.3 billion was invested by The World Bank towards funding energy saving measures around the world, such as hydroelectricity and renewables, in the 2009 financial year.

"Developing countries need to be prepared for the potential consequences of unchecked climate change," warned Ms Sierra.