The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has launched the city’s first-ever Paris Agreement-aligned Karachi Climate Action Plan (KCAP) — a comprehensive roadmap aimed at slashing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 62.2 per cent by 2050 and transitioning Karachi towards becoming a net-zero city.
As Pakistan’s economic powerhouse and a city of over 20 million residents, Karachi faces growing environmental threats intensified by climate change. Over the last 60 years, the city’s daytime temperatures have risen by 1.6 degrees Celsius.
In 2022 alone, Karachi’s GHG emissions stood at 43.5 million tonnes driven primarily by stationary energy sources, inefficient waste management and vehicular emissions. Without intervention, emissions could triple to 131.6 million tonnes by 2050.
Mayor Murtaza Wahab underscored the urgency of climate action, stating, "The Karachi Climate Action Plan is not merely a static document—it is our commitment to transforming our city into a global model of sustainable urban resilience. KCAP reflects our resolve to safeguard the environment, secure a healthier future, and promote inclusive economic growth.”
The KCAP is grounded in extensive research and follows the C40 climate action planning pathway. It outlines 71 targeted actions across various sectors —including energy, transport, waste, and urban planning — to cut emissions and strengthen the city’s climate resilience.
Shruti Narayan, C40 Cities’s managing director of Regions and Mayoral Engagement, highlighted Karachi’s leadership in climate action stating, “With the launch of its Climate Action Plan, Karachi, a C40 member since 2006, is a shining example of bold, evidence-based leadership in urban sustainability. We at C40 Cities are proud to support this transformative initiative, which not only sets an ambitious target of reducing emissions by over 60 per cent by 2050 but also prioritises the well-being of vulnerable communities. Karachi is charting a clear path toward a resilient, sustainable future by integrating innovative solutions across energy, transportation, waste management and urban greening."
The KCAP builds on a robust climate risk assessment that accounts for socio-economic vulnerabilities, placing equity and inclusivity at the core of addressing the city’s risks of urban heat, flooding drought and sea-level rise. The plan aligns with Pakistan’s commitment to reduce emissions by 50 per cent by 2030 as outlined in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and was developed through extensive consultations with government agencies, civil society, academia and local communities, ensuring that the climate-vulnerable populations, including women and children, are protected.
Dr Samuel Rizk, resident representative of the UNDP Pakistan, reaffirmed the UNDP’s commitment to supporting Karachi’s climate resilience.
“Over 20 million people in Karachi are facing escalating climate threats, with vulnerable communities bearing the brunt of these impacts. KCAP is a critical step forward. Aligned with the 2030 Agenda, UNDP is fully committed to supporting Pakistan’s climate goals,” the UNDP representative stated.