The spectre of climate change looms large over our planet – the only home we know – demanding immediate and collective action. As global temperatures rise and extreme weather events become more frequent and intense, it further highlights the complex dimensions of climate change, its policy implications, societal ramifications, global manifestations and specific repercussions.

At the heart of tackling climate change lies the crucial link between policy and action. Governments play a pivotal role in crafting comprehensive and sustainable strategies that prioritise environmental stewardship. These policies should go beyond mere mitigation efforts and actively promote resilience-building initiatives. Robust environmental regulations, coupled with investments in clean energy infrastructure and sustainable development practices, are essential to chart a course where people and nature not only survive but thrive.

The repercussions of climate change extend far beyond environmental degradation, significantly impacting the accessibility and quality of essential services like education and healthcare. Extreme weather events and environmental changes disrupt schooling and healthcare delivery systems, particularly in vulnerable communities. We in Pakistan are no strangers to such episodes, as we have witnessed how our already strained systems were further burdened.

The devastating floods of 2022 are an example of the severity of the issue now cited by most global policy makers. Caused by unprecedented monsoon rains, these floods submerged a third of the country, displacing millions, destroying infrastructure and causing economic losses estimated at a staggering $15.2 billion. This catastrophe underscored Pakistan's vulnerability to climate extremes and the urgent need for robust adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Climate change is not a localised phenomenon. Its effects transcend borders, highlighting the interconnectedness of environmental challenges. Pakistan, unfortunately, stands at the forefront of climate vulnerability. As per UNFCCC, Pakistan contributes 0.9 percent to global greenhouse gas emissions, but is the fifth most climate vulnerable country. Climate-induced disasters like floods, droughts and heatwaves wreak havoc on infrastructure, displace communities and disrupt livelihoods.

Empowering individuals and communities is paramount to drive meaningful change. Comprehensive education efforts are essential to equip people with the knowledge and skills to understand the science behind climate change and its local impacts. Public awareness campaigns can spark conversations, mobilise communities and encourage individual action.

One approach is to create citizen advisory boards on climate change. These boards can bring together experts, community leaders and citizens to advise policymakers on developing and implementing effective climate strategies.

The media plays a critical role in shaping public discourse on climate change. Its coverage patterns significantly influence public perception and understanding of the issue. Balanced and evidence-based reporting is crucial to raise awareness, dispel myths and foster climate-conscious attitudes. Highlighting the human stories behind climate change can evoke empathy and galvanise action. Media outlets can also play a vital role in holding governments accountable for their environmental policies and promoting community-based adaptation strategies.

Community-based initiatives are at the forefront of local adaptation efforts. These initiatives empower communities to identify their vulnerabilities and develop solutions tailored to their specific needs. From planting trees and promoting water conservation to building flood-resistant infrastructure and adopting sustainable agricultural practices, community-led action fosters local ownership and drives lasting change.

While public awareness about climate change is rising in the country, a disconnection exists between this awareness and the implementation of effective policy. Public opinion polls indicate a growing understanding of the issue, with a significant portion of the population expressing concern about its impact, as they experience it in their daily lives. This sentiment is often reflected in support for environmental protection measures. However, translating this awareness into concrete action on the ground remains a challenge. Bureaucratic hurdles, vested interests in certain industries and a lack of political will and leadership to prioritise long-term environmental sustainability over short-term economic gains often impede the implementation of robust climate policies. This disconnect between awareness and action weakens our ability to effectively combat climate change and leaves its communities vulnerable to its repeated devastating consequences. This gap can be partly attributed to the lack of strong, strategic policymakers at the helm. When people don't see a sense of urgency or a commitment to long-term environmental sustainability from their leaders, it weakens their resolve and trust in the system. This gap needs to be bridged for tangible results.

One approach to this is to create citizen advisory boards on climate change. These boards can bring together experts, community leaders and citizens to advise policymakers on developing and implementing effective climate strategies. This collaborative approach leverages the knowledge and perspectives of diverse stakeholders, leading to more informed and impactful policies.

Integrating climate change considerations into all levels of government decision-making is crucial. This means conducting environmental impact assessments for all major projects, prioritising renewable energy sources in national energy policies and allocating adequate resources for climate adaptation and mitigation efforts.

As Peter Frankopan says in his latest book, The Earth Transformed: An Untold History, societies led by those who ignored or failed to facilitate adaptation to climate change ultimately crumbled. Those who fail to learn from history are bound to repeat it.

The writer is a communications, public relations and sustainability professional. Her X handle is @FatimaArif