s Pakistan celebrates its 77th Independence Day, the air is filled with fervour, pride and nostalgia. Yet, amidst the discussions on debt, inflation and corruption, a critical issue remains conspicuously absent: climate change. While the nation immerses itself in the festivities, it is imperative that we redirect some of our attention to this existential threat that looms larger than ever. Ranked as the fifth most vulnerable country on the Global Climate Risk Index, Pakistan faces environmental crises that are getting ignored on account of the immediate economic concerns.

A call to action

August 14 is more than just a day to celebrate our national pride; it is an occasion to pause and consider the formidable challenges that lie ahead. Climate change is at the top of the list. Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change is undeniable. The nation’s future prosperity is inextricably linked to how effectively we respond to this global crisis.

The devastating floods of August 2022 were a grim reminder of climate change’s impact on our homeland. The Post Disaster Needs Assessment report highlighted an economic toll that was truly catastrophic— Rs 3.2 trillion in damage and Rs 3.5 trillion required for recovery. These floods, aggravated by heat-waves, melting glaciers and unsustainable land use, are not mere acts of nature but a direct result of human-induced climate change. Their repercussions for public health, agriculture, water resources and economic stability underscore the urgency of the situation. Pakistan can no longer afford to be a passive observer in this battle.

Progress and paradoxes

In response to these unprecedented challenges, Pakistan has made notable strides. The Pakistan Climate Change Act of 2017, the National Climate Change Policy and various regulatory measures signal a commitment to addressing environmental issues. The government’s pledge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50 per cent by 2030 and initiatives like the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami and the Clean Green Pakistan campaign are commendable. The judiciary, too, has played a pivotal role by expanding the interpretation of constitutional rights to include the right to a healthy environment.

Yet, the 2022 floods starkly exposed the vulnerability of our infrastructure and the inadequacy of our preparedness. Clearly, more decisive action is needed—and it is needed urgently.

The funding conundrum

One of the most formidable challenges in implementing our climate policies is securing the necessary funding. Despite a growing global focus on climate investments, Pakistan has struggled to secure adequate climate financing. An evaluation by the Asian Development Bank revealed that Pakistan has received the least amount of climate financing among comparable countries over the past decade. This shortfall is alarming, as achieving our climate goals under the Paris Agreement requires significant financial resources. Creating a more favourable investment climate for climate-aligned projects and aligning our policies with global climate objectives is not just desirable—it is vital.

It is time for us to harmonise our actions with the needs of our planet, ensuring that the dawn of a greener Pakistan is not just a dream, but a reality.

A new frontier: ESG compliance

Pakistan’s adherence to Environmental, Social and Governance principles is another area where we lag significantly. Ranked 161st globally in ESG compliance, we must intensify our efforts. Incorporating ESG principles into our businesses is not merely about improving global rankings; it is also about ensuring long-term sustainability, resilience and societal well-being. The guidelines from the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan and the State Bank of Pakistan are steps in the right direction. These must be implemented rigorously and consistently.

Renewable energy

Amid the challenges, the renewable energy sector offers a glimmer of hope. With a focus on wind and solar power, we are gradually moving towards a more sustainable energy landscape. However, this journey is fraught with obstacles—high fuel costs, dependency on imports and outdated infrastructure continue to impede progress. The International Monetary Fund and other global organisations have emphasised the importance of green innovation in reducing emissions and stimulating economic growth. For Pakistan, this means supporting not only large-scale projects but also smaller, scalable ventures that can make a tangible difference.

Climate change is a socio-economic issue

It is crucial to recognise that climate change is not just an environmental issue; it is a socio-economic one that permeates every facet of our lives. The textile industry, a significant contributor to our GDP, is under immense pressure to comply with emerging global sustainability regulations. Failure to do so could lead to substantial trade losses, particularly in markets like Germany, where environmental compliance is increasingly critical. By prioritising sustainability, we not only safeguard our environment but also enhance our competitiveness in the global market.

Collective efforts for a greener future

Navigating these complex challenges requires more than just government action. It demands collective efforts from all sectors of the society. Businesses must embrace ESG principles; citizens must adopt more sustainable lifestyles; and the international community must support our efforts through increased climate financing.

This August, let us reflect on what true independence means in the context of climate change. It is about securing our future by taking bold, innovative actions. It is about understanding that we are all in this together and that the consequences of inaction will be felt by every one of us. As a nation, we have the resilience and ingenuity to overcome these challenges. We must act decisively—and we must act now.

A vision for the future

The road ahead is challenging, but it is a road we must travel. By prioritising climate action, we can ensure that future generations inherit a Pakistan that is not only free but also green, prosperous and sustainable.

In the words of Rabindranath Tagore, “The highest education is that which does not merely give us information but brings our life in harmony with all existence.” It is time for us to harmonise our actions with the needs of our planet, ensuring that the dawn of a greener Pakistan is not just a dream, but a reality.

The writer is a policy analyst and a researcher currently working at the Sustainable Development Policy Institute. The views expressed in this article are those of the author and might not reflect the positions of any organisation