Pakistan pursues climate justice while its citizens fight climate change

In the picturesque valleys of northern Pakistan, ancient glaciers are melting faster than ever, transforming peaceful landscapes into chaos and devastation. In the heart of the country in the south, farmers gaze out over parched, arid lands, praying for rain that is becoming increasingly rare. This is the stark reality of climate change in Pakistan—a country that contributes minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions yet faces some of the most severe impacts. Pakistan’s journey toward climate justice is a testament to resilience, determination, and an unwavering commitment to a sustainable future.

The human costs of climate change

For millions of Pakistanis, climate change is not an abstract concept but a stark everyday reality. In 2010, devastating floods inundated a fifth of the country, displacing more than 20 million people and causing economic losses exceeding $10 billion. People have lost their homes, their livelihoods and, in many cases, their hopes. Recurrent floods, along with droughts and heatwaves, continue to affect the most vulnerable populations, pushing them deeper into poverty.

In rural Sindh, a farmer named Ahmed struggles to grow crops on his ancestral land. “The rains are unpredictable now,” he says, his weathered hands scratching the dry, cracked soil. “My father and his father before him relied on the seasons. Now all we can do is pray.”

Despite these challenges, Pakistan has not been sitting idle. The government, along with local communities and NGOs, has launched several initiatives to combat climate change and build resilience. One of the most ambitious projects is the “10 Billion Tsunami Trees.” This initiative aims to plant 10 billion trees across the country, restoring forests, reducing soil erosion, and sequestering carbon. It is a massive undertaking that has mobilized communities across the country, providing jobs and fostering a culture of environmental conservation.

The National Climate Change Policy (NCCP), launched in 2012, provides a strategic framework for combating climate change. It focuses on integrating climate resilience into national planning, promoting sustainable agriculture and protecting water resources. Local governments are increasingly adopting the guidelines, adapting them to specific regional threats. In the bustling city of Karachi, solar panels are becoming a common sight. Pakistan is investing heavily in renewable energy, aiming to generate 30% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. This shift not only reduces carbon emissions but also provides cleaner, more reliable energy to millions of homes.

With water scarcity a major threat, Pakistan has prioritized the construction of dams and reservoirs. These projects, such as the Diamer-Bhasha dam, aim to increase water storage capacity and provide a stable water supply for agriculture and domestic use, mitigating the effects of drought.

Supporting Global Climate Justice

Pakistan’s actions extend beyond its borders. The country has been a vocal advocate for climate justice on the international stage, demanding fair treatment and support for developing countries. Pakistan is a committed signatory to the Paris Agreement. Despite its low emissions, it has committed to reducing its projected emissions by 20% by 2030, subject to international assistance. This shows Pakistan’s willingness to be part of the global solution, even as it grapples with significant domestic challenges.

In international forums, Pakistan has consistently called on developed countries to deliver on their promises of climate finance and technology transfer. “We are on the front lines of climate change,” says Malik Amin Aslam, the prime minister’s advisor on climate change. “We need the world’s support to build resilience and move towards a sustainable future.” Recognizing that climate change knows no borders, Pakistan is working with neighboring countries on issues such as water management and disaster risk reduction. These efforts are crucial in a region where shared rivers and ecosystems require collective action.

The Path to Climate Justice

The concept of climate justice is rooted in fairness and equity. Pakistan’s minimal contribution to global emissions contrasts sharply with the severe impacts it suffers. Achieving climate justice means recognizing this disparity and ensuring that those who have contributed the least to the problem receive the most support.

Developed countries must step up their support by providing the promised $100 billion per year in climate finance. This funding is essential for developing countries like Pakistan to effectively implement mitigation and adaptation strategies. Furthermore, compensation mechanisms for loss and damage must be strengthened to address the irreversible impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities.

Shared responsibility

Pakistan’s history of fighting climate change is a poignant reminder of our shared responsibility. The resilience and determination of Pakistanis, from policymakers to farmers like Ahmed, underscore the capacity of the human spirit to adapt and persevere. But their efforts must be matched by global solidarity and support.

Climate justice is not just about addressing environmental impacts; it is about ensuring that every nation, every community, and every person has the chance to thrive in a sustainable world. As Pakistan continues its journey towards a greener future, the global community must stand with it, recognizing our interconnected destinies and the collective challenge we face.

(The author is currently working at an Islamabad-based think tank. Her area of ​​interest is South Asian strategic and security issues. The views expressed are personal. She can be contacted at [email protected])