Climate change represents one of the most pressing global challenges of the 21st century. Its effects are particularly severe in developing regions, where fragile economies, growing populations, and limited infrastructure amplify vulnerability. In South Asia, a region already grappling with poverty, water scarcity, and political instability, the repercussions of climate change are increasingly evident. Pakistan, situated at the heart of this region, has emerged as both a victim of the crisis and a proactive actor seeking sustainable solutions.
Climate change refers to long-term shifts in temperature, precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events caused largely by human activities such as burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial emissions. These changes are disrupting natural systems, endangering wildlife, threatening food security, and displacing millions worldwide. Around the globe, rising sea levels threaten coastal populations, intense heatwaves and droughts are reducing agricultural productivity, glaciers are melting and contributing to floods and freshwater shortages, and extreme weather events are causing immense economic and human loss.
South Asia is particularly susceptible to climate-induced disasters due to its geographic and socio-economic characteristics. Over the past decades, the region has experienced deadly heatwaves, especially in India and Pakistan, where temperatures have soared above 50°C. Monsoon patterns have become increasingly erratic, causing both severe flooding and long periods of drought, which affect millions of livelihoods dependent on agriculture. In the Himalayan region, glaciers that supply water to major rivers are melting rapidly, increasing the risk of floods and threatening long-term water security. Coastal areas in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan have seen more intense cyclones and coastal erosion, displacing communities and damaging ecosystems.
Pakistan is especially vulnerable to the effects of climate change, despite contributing less than one percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. Its geographic diversity exposes it to a range of environmental stressors, from melting glaciers in the north to drought-stricken deserts in the south. A large portion of the population relies on agriculture, which is sensitive to weather patterns and water availability. Rapid urbanization, particularly in major cities like Karachi and Lahore, often takes place without climate-resilient infrastructure. Water insecurity is becoming one of the most critical challenges, as Pakistan ranks among the most water-stressed countries in the world, with climate change further exacerbating the issue through declining rainfall and inefficient water use.
Recognizing the urgency of the climate crisis, Pakistan has taken significant steps in policy and practice. One of its most notable initiatives is the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami, a national afforestation campaign aimed at restoring forests, combating desertification, and enhancing biodiversity. This large-scale reforestation effort has received international recognition as a successful model for nature-based climate solutions. Pakistan has also updated its National Climate Change Policy and submitted its Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement, pledging to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 20 percent by 2030, conditional on international support.
Another key strategy has been the Green Stimulus Plan, which was launched as part of the COVID-19 recovery strategy. It focuses on creating green jobs, particularly for youth and daily wage earners, through environmental conservation projects. Pakistan is gradually shifting towards renewable energy, including hydropower, wind, and solar energy, and is working to reduce its reliance on coal and improve energy efficiency.
In line with these national efforts, I have actively contributed to raising awareness and driving collaboration on climate change. I have organized and participated in numerous summits focused on climate resilience, sustainability, and environmental justice. These gatherings have brought together academics, government officials, activists, and community leaders to build a unified response to the challenges posed by climate change. Most recently, I made a presentation in Dubai on the urgent environmental challenges facing Pakistan and the South Asian region, highlighting the need for regional synergy, policy alignment, and public-private collaboration. In this presentation, I emphasized the importance of building strong partnerships with the Government of Pakistan to scale up climate adaptation and mitigation strategies. These engagements have reinforced the critical need to bridge gaps between civil society, scientific communities, and government institutions.
Pakistan is also engaging in regional climate diplomacy. Climate change affects the entire South Asian region, and Pakistan has participated in forums like the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to promote environmental cooperation. Although political tensions often hinder deeper collaboration, there have been efforts to maintain dialogue, such as through the Indus Waters Treaty discussions with India, which increasingly incorporate climate data and hydrological cooperation. Transboundary initiatives also exist to conserve biodiversity in the Himalayan region in partnership with countries like Nepal and Bhutan.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Political instability, limited funding, lack of enforcement, and weak institutional capacity continue to slow progress. There is a need for greater investment in education, climate science, and technology transfer, as well as the integration of climate action into all levels of governance and development planning.
In conclusion, climate change is reshaping the ecological and economic landscape of South Asia. For Pakistan, the path forward demands consistent and coordinated action, both domestically and regionally. While the country has made significant strides through afforestation, green recovery, and climate policy, long-term resilience will depend on strengthening institutions, enhancing regional cooperation, and securing international support. Pakistan has the opportunity to lead by example in South Asia, not only as a vulnerable state but as a determined actor in the global effort to secure a sustainable future.
Dr. Syeda Rehana is a committed educationist with a strong academic background and a focus on community development. She has been engaged in various educational and empowerment initiatives across several regions of Pakistan in collaboration with national organizations.
