In the last few years, Pakistan has been experiencing a rising climate catastrophe, aggravated by its vulnerability to catastrophic weather occurrences. As per UN predictions, while Pakistan’s population is expected to reach 380 million by 2050, the country suffers significant environmental degradation, limited natural resources, and increasing pollution. These challenges endanger not only the environment, but also lives, food security, and economic stability. 

Pakistan's environmental issues are acute, with the country ranking as the world's fourth most polluted as stated in the Air Quality Index World 2023 fact sheet. Cities such as Karachi and Lahore have alarming levels of air pollution, while water scarcity, compounded by mismanagement and contamination of water sources, poses a considerable risk. The declaration of an environmental emergency in 2022 in Lahore emphasizes the severity of the pollution situation.

Climate disasters left devastating impact 

Climate change has left a devastating economic and social impact on Pakistan. The 2022 monsoon season saw record-breaking rainfall, resulting in catastrophic flooding that displaced millions, claimed thousands of lives, and caused extensive infrastructure damage. A report from the UN Appeal unveiled in October 2022, that 20.6 million people needed humanitarian assistance, with 14.6 million requiring emergency food assistance, 7 million children requiring nutrition services, 4 million children lacking access to health services, and 5.5 million people without safe drinking water. Agriculture, which employs 43% of the labour force and accounts for 23% of GDP, has experienced huge losses, aggravating poverty and inequality.

The 2023 Pakistan floods occurred from March to July 2023, caused by monsoon rains that returned to Pakistan nine months after the 2022 Pakistan floods. Flooding exacerbated around the end of June, because of upcoming monsoon rains. At least 159 individuals died, including several children.

Despite its low per capita emissions, Pakistan is among the top ten countries most affected by climate change, with frequent floods, droughts, deserts, and glacial melt. These disasters illustrate Pakistan's vulnerability and the critical need for comprehensive climate action. Pakistan has taken part in forums such as COP27, asking for increased help for climate-vulnerable countries. The formation of a Loss and Damage Fund was a step forward, but questions remain about its sufficiency and developed nations' commitment to reducing emissions and supporting adaptation measures in developing countries.

Domestically, Pakistan has established the National Climate Change Policy and Framework for Implementation (2014-2030), indicating intent but suffering implementation issues due to government delay and bureaucratic barriers. Continuing ahead, Pakistan has to prioritize adaptation and resilience-building initiatives, such as investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, improving disaster preparedness, and encouraging sustainable agriculture. Climate policy must be implemented effectively, which requires improved governance, transparency, and accountability.

Need for international collaboration 

Pakistan's climatic catastrophe requires a global response. Developed countries must fulfill their pledges to provide financial and technological assistance to developing countries like Pakistan so that they can effectively mitigate and adapt to climate change. This solidarity reflects both an environmental obligation and a moral imperative to safeguard vulnerable groups.

Pakistan has entered a turning phase in its struggle against climate change. The actions chosen today will define the country's resilience and sustainability in the face of mounting environmental threats. By taking strong action at home and advocating for more international collaboration, Pakistan can avoid the worst effects of climate change, conserve its natural resources, and ensure a sustainable future for future generations. 

The time to act is now. Pakistan must set an example by proving its commitment to climate resilience and asking the international community to keep their promises and support vulnerable states in their battle against climate change.

(The author is a visiting faculty at the Department of Politics and International Relations, International Islamic University, Islamabad, (IIUI). She holds an MS in Strategic Studies from Air University Islamabad. Views are personal. She can be contacted at saranazeer2@gmail.com )