he recently-concluded 27th Sustainable Development Conference, having the theme From Fragility to Resilience: Enhancing Sustainable Development, highlighted the significant challenges Pakistan faces in its fight against climate change and the broader quest for sustainable development. The large congregation of participants from a score of countries focused on the urgent need for multi-dimensional strategies to address the increasing vulnerability of Pakistan’s socio-economic and environmental systems. It also illuminated the unique context in which Pakistan must navigate its fragilities toward greater resilience.

Pakistan’s environmental and economic fragility has been exacerbated by climate change. Extreme weather events such as floods, droughts and rising pollution levels are wreaking havoc on the country’s ecosystems, public health and agricultural productivity. Acting President Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani acknowledged the challenges, emphasising that climate-induced adversity not only poses an existential threat to Pakistan’s development but also significantly impedes its socio-economic growth. As the climate crisis unfolds, Pakistan must not only adapt to its impacts but also build resilience across all sectors of society. This involves rethinking the current development model to ensure that the climate adaptation and economic stabilisation efforts are woven together to create a sustainable and equitable future.

A pivotal aspect of the SDC discussions was the urgent need for a robust, legally sound framework for climate finance. While Pakistan is disproportionately vulnerable to the effects of climate change, it lacks adequate financial mechanisms to effectively respond to these impacts.

Justice Jawad Hassan underlined the importance of transparent and accessible climate financing, particularly in relation to global initiatives such as the Loss and Damage Fund. Given that Pakistan’s contributions to global emissions are minimal compared to its exposure to climate risks, accessing international climate finance is not just necessary, it is imperative. Without it, Pakistan’s ability to implement large-scale adaptation strategies and build resilience in its most vulnerable communities will remain constrained.

Pollution emerged as another critical concern. Senator Sherry Rehman called it a “serial killer” devastating public health and the environment. Chronic air pollution in urban centres, particularly in cities like Lahore and Karachi, is not merely a seasonal issue. It is a year-round crisis. The need for systemic changes to reduce emissions, advocating for stricter regulations, greater media responsibility and increased public awareness was unanimously underscored. While the need for short-term solutions was recognised, the long-term focus must centre on addressing the root causes of pollution through transformative policy changes and investments in sustainable practices. A Sustainable Investment Expo, which ran alongside the conference, showcased numerous initiatives aimed at building resilience through green energy, waste management and sustainable agriculture. These solutions offer a tangible pathway to mitigate environmental vulnerabilities, provided that both the public and private sectors commit to implementing those at scale.

The concept of resilience was explored in the context of Pakistan’s economic structure. The conference raised questions about the effectiveness of projects like the China Pakistan Economic Corridor in fostering inclusive growth. Some experts said such economic corridors, while promoting high-profile infrastructure, often fail to provide meaningful economic benefits to many sections of society. This, they said, calls for a re-evaluation of how development projects are conceived and implemented. For resilience to take root, the benefits of economic growth must extend beyond elite interests. The focus must be on creating inclusive opportunities for local industries and communities.

This is particularly relevant in sectors like railways, which remain underdeveloped in favour of road networks that benefit fewer people, leaving many communities without access to essential services and economic opportunities.

Another vital area of focus was the role of Pakistan’s textile industry, which faces immense pressure to meet global sustainability standards. While the sector is crucial for economic growth and employment, it also has a substantial environmental footprint. Experts said there was a need for governments and private sector to collaborate on reducing emissions and integrating sustainable practices into production processes. This includes investing in renewable energy, waste management technologies and recycling initiatives. By aligning the textile industry with global sustainability standards, Pakistan can not only reduce its environmental impact but also position itself as a leader in sustainable textile production, enhancing its competitiveness in international markets.

The need for intersection between climate resilience and gender equality cannot be ignored. Women, particularly in rural areas, often face systemic barriers that limit their access to resources and opportunities, further hindering the country’s capacity to adapt to climate change. The importance of empowering women, especially in agriculture, where they play a vital role in food production has been long emphasised. By ensuring women’s equitable access to education, land and financial resources, Pakistan can unlock significant economic potential, while also ensuring that resilience-building efforts are inclusive.

With nearly two-thirds of Pakistan’s population under the age of 30, demographic structure is a powerful catalyst for change. Investing in human capital through education, skills development, and social protection is essential for harnessing the potential is vibrant. However, this requires more than just providing opportunities; it necessitates addressing the deep-rooted structural issues that hinder social mobility and economic participation, particularly for marginalised groups.

The overarching message is clear: Pakistan’s path from fragility to resilience must be rooted in inclusive, integrated policies that address the economic, environmental and social dimensions of development. To build a sustainable future, Pakistan must focus not only on climate adaptation but also on fostering inclusive growth, equitable access to resources and social cohesion. This requires a holistic approach, one that addresses systemic inequalities, empowers marginalised groups and creates an enabling environment for private-sector innovation and public-sector reform.

The importance of a comprehensive energy strategy to drive sustainable development is the need of the hour. Despite the increase in energy production, Pakistan continues to face significant distribution inefficiencies that hinder the transition to renewable energy. A long-term, sustainable energy policy must prioritise investments in wind and solar power, while also addressing the challenges of energy access in rural areas. By adopting a more decentralised approach to energy production and distribution, Pakistan can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, lower greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to global climate goals.

As it prepares to engage in global climate negotiations, the country is all set to reinforce the need for a comprehensive approach to climate finance, adaptation and resilience. For Pakistan to achieve sustainable development, it must not only focus on immediate recovery but also on proactive, long-term solutions that address both climate and socio-economic vulnerabilities. The 27th SDC highlighted the multifaceted challenges Pakistan faces on its journey towards sustainable development. Experts reinforced the need for bold, integrated policy responses that address climate change, economic fragility and social inequality. Through resilient governance, inclusive policies and sustainable investments, Pakistan has the potential to transform its vulnerabilities into opportunities for long-term prosperity. The discussions were not merely academic; they were a call to action for policymakers, businesses, and civil society to unite in creating a more sustainable and resilient Pakistan.

The author, head of policy advocacy and outreach at Sustainable Development Policy Institute, Islamabad, can be reached at wasif@sdpi.org