by: FARAZ AHMED CHANDIO
Climate change presents a profound challenge for Pakistan, a country ranked among the most vulnerable to climate-related disasters despite contributing less than 1% to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The country’s geography, fragile economy, and limited adaptive capacity have made it particularly susceptible to extreme weather events, rising temperatures, glacial melting, and sea level rise.
Climate Vulnerability and Disasters
Pakistan has experienced increasingly severe weather events over recent decades, including floods, heatwaves, droughts, and cyclones. The 2010 floods and the catastrophic 2022 deluge—driven by glacial melt and heavy rainfall—affected over 33 million people, displacing millions and destroying critical infrastructure.
Punjab province has launched the Punjab Climate Change Strategy to confront these issues, and federal efforts are being coordinated through the Ministry of Climate Change, currently led by Senator Sherry Rehman.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions ProfilePakistan’s annual GHG emissions are about 2 tonnes per capita—less than half the global average. In 2015, 46% of emissions came from the energy sector and 43% from agriculture, with methane and nitrous oxide being the primary gases from livestock and crop production.
Despite commitments to shift towards renewable energy, several coal-fired power projects remain under construction. However, in 2020, Pakistan pledged to halt future coal plant permits and committed to a 50% emissions reduction target by 2030.
Environmental Impacts
Rising Temperatures and Extreme Weather
Heatwaves like the one in May 2022, where temperatures hit 51°C, are now 100 times more likely due to climate change. IPCC projections indicate a rise in both the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and erratic monsoon patterns, severely affecting agriculture and energy production.
Sea Level Rise
The Karachi coast is experiencing sea level rise of approximately 1.1 mm per year, exacerbated by glacial melting and reduced sediment flow from dammed rivers. Vulnerable coastal regions such as Thatta, Badin, and Sajawal have already lost significant land area, resulting in large-scale displacement.
Glacial Retreat and Water Scarcity
Glacial retreat in the northern mountains is accelerating, increasing the risk of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). Water availability per capita is also expected to decline, threatening food and energy security.
Socioeconomic ImpactsAgriculture
Climate change is projected to reduce wheat and rice yields significantly. The 2022 floods destroyed nearly 50% of Pakistan’s crops, leading to food shortages. In 2024, a major orange shortage was attributed to erratic weather, reducing citrus production by 35%.
Poverty and Migration
With over half the population living on less than $2/day, Pakistan faces heightened risks from climate-related disruptions. Economic instability, inflation, and rural-urban migration—estimated at 700,000 people annually—are intensifying the strain on urban infrastructure.
Mitigation and Adaptation Strategies
Policy and Governance
The National Climate Change Policy (2012) outlines strategic goals for adaptation and resilience, including disaster risk management, water conservation, reforestation, and sustainable agriculture. A key legal milestone was the 2015 Asghar Leghari vs. Federation of Pakistan case, which resulted in the establishment of a Climate Change Commission.
Reforestation
To combat deforestation (forest cover stands at less than 6%), Pakistan launched the Billion Tree Tsunami and Ten Billion Tree Tsunami campaigns. These initiatives have created jobs and improved ecological resilience.
Public Perception
Despite widespread experience of climate-related events, public awareness of climate change remains limited. A BBC Climate Asia report noted that many people attribute extreme weather to divine will, highlighting the need for stronger public education and engagement.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s climate crisis is not of its own making, yet it bears a disproportionate burden. As global climate negotiations continue, Pakistan remains a key voice calling for climate justice, international financing, and urgent collective action.
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