Manahil Saqib

In today’s fast paced world, we face various challenges and difficulties but regardless of those, climate change is one of the most crucial matters in the present time. Previously, our ancestors had no knowledge about climate change and hence it was not a concern back in the day. However, in today’s contemporary world the entire focus is on the impact of climate change and how to prevent the adversities of climate change.

In recent years, signs of climate change and global warming were very evident, especially in the south Asian region and other developing countries. The problem faced by developing countries is that they are not responsible for global climate changes but unfortunately, these countries suffer the most from harsh impacts of changing climate.

Keeping in view the geostrategic positioning of Pakistan, and the changing dynamics of climate, Pakistan is prone to severe disasters and catastrophic events soon.

Challenges faced by Pakistan from changing climate

One of the most recent examples of climate changes in Pakistan is the floods of 2022, resulting in deaths of approximately 1800 people and economic loss of 15.2 billion dollars (about $47 per person in the US). Besides that, Pakistan is inclined towards facing natural disasters annually, including droughts, earthquakes, and flooding. Moreover, in the past century, the annual temperature increase was around 0.63 Celsius across the country and the sea level across the Karachi coast has risen by 1.1mm (about 0.04 in) per year.

Furthermore, Pakistan ranks among top 10 countries across the globe that is most affected by climate changes and natural disasters. Apart from this, Pakistan has a remarkably diverse geography ranging from high mountain ranges and glaciers to arid deserts, Pakistan is particularly exposed to adversities of changing climate.

The changing climate not only influences the environment but also impacts the economy and general health of the state. The country, being an agricultural state, depends on agricultural land and is highly disturbed by the changing dynamics of the climate.

In the aspect of economic growth and development, climate change influences the agricultural productivity, economic costs, and energy sector of Pakistan. And on the other hand, it causes waterborne diseases and heat related issues in aspects of public health.

Apart from this, the advent usage of fossil fuels and lack of technological advancements of Pakistan leads to a setback in development.

Overall, climate change opposes significant and multifaceted challenges to Pakistan. Staying in the bubble of ignorance is not a solution to Pakistan’s issues faced by climate adversities and there is a desperate need for a proper solution for these problems by our government.

Suggested WAY FORWARD TO TACKLE climate change as a developing country?

While addressing the climate changes in a developing country, it revolves around a series of implementation of strategies and policies consisting of mutual efforts by the local government and on an international level.it requires both technological advancements and old school practices. There are various comprehensive efforts that could be done to save our environment. On an international scale, funds can be provided for saving the underdeveloped areas across the globe and mutual efforts can be done for saving the planet.

Promoting renewable energy resources, strengthening government policies, having sustainable agriculture and a resilient infrastructure are few ways of solving problems related to climate change.

Considering the dynamics of Pakistan, a way towards progression includes transformation of the food system. The country needs to promote a smart climate system along with that it needs a significant investment in urban planning and Development, so in case of floods or earthquakes the aftermath is not too brutal.

In addition to this, Pakistan needs to enhance its water security system.it needs improvement in water storage, management and needs ways to overcome scarcity. Along with that, Pakistan needs to diversify its energy resources.

Overall, the problems faced by climate change can be overcome by a collective effort. By doing so the multifaceted challenges of climate change can be easily resolved.

Climate change is a global issue and needs attention. Staying in the bubble of ignorance will only enhance the problems of climate change and It makes it difficult to live through these problems. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive strategy that integrates policy reform, technological innovation, and community engagement. By taking such measures, Pakistan can overcome the adverse effects of climate change and build a more resilient future for its people.

 

 

 

Written is  student of national defence university,Islamabad.