Pakistan is grappling with a multitude of environmental challenges that threaten its natural resources, public health, and overall economic stability. The country ranks among the most vulnerable nations to climate change, facing severe air and water pollution, deforestation, and the impacts of natural disasters. According to the 2020 Environmental Performance Index (EPI) released by Yale University, Pakistan ranks 142nd out of 180 countries, with a score of only 33.1. Alarmingly, it holds the dubious distinction of being the third-most polluted country globally in terms of air quality, trailing only behind India and Bangladesh.
The statistics paint a dire picture: outdoor air pollution is responsible for approximately 22,000 premature adult deaths annually in Pakistan, alongside over 163,000 disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) lost due to air quality issues. The World Bank has highlighted that urban air pollution in cities like Karachi is among the worst in the world, significantly impacting human health and economic productivity. The Sindh Environment Protection Department reported that pollution levels in major cities are roughly four times higher than World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. This situation is exacerbated by rapid urbanization and industrialization, which have led to unregulated emissions and increased vehicular traffic.
Water pollution is another critical issue facing Pakistan. The country is classified as water-stressed by the World Bank, with only limited access to clean drinking water for its population. The Indus River system, which is vital for agriculture and drinking water supply, faces challenges from upstream diversions and contamination. The mismanagement of water resources not only threatens agricultural productivity but also poses significant risks to public health. The lack of clean water contributes to a high incidence of waterborne diseases, further straining an already overburdened healthcare system.
Deforestation poses yet another challenge. While Pakistan had a relatively decent score on the Forest Landscape Integrity Index in 2018—ranking 41st globally—the country continues to experience alarming rates of forest loss. Deforestation is driven by a combination of factors including illegal logging, urban expansion, and agricultural encroachment, leading to habitat destruction and loss of biodiversity. The reliance on imported wood products underscores the unsustainable nature of current practices.
Criticism has been directed at the Pakistani government for its perceived inaction regarding these pressing environmental issues. Despite being one of the countries most affected by climate change, critics argue that the government has failed to implement effective policies or provide adequate funding for environmental protection initiatives. Many believe that the government’s response has been insufficient given the scale of the crisis.
In April 2024, Romina Khursheed Alam took office as coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change
Pakistan’s new Minister for Climate Change amid these ongoing challenges. Her predecessors had set a high standard; notably, former Minister Sherry Rehman made history at COP27 by leading negotiations that resulted in establishing the Loss and Damage Fund for developing countries affected by climate change. This fund aims to provide financial support for countries like Pakistan that are disproportionately impacted by climate-related disasters. While Alam’s appointment brings hope for renewed focus on environmental issues, skepticism remains among activists and experts regarding the government’s commitment to addressing these challenges effectively. Many argue that without substantial political will and concrete action plans, initiatives such as those proposed at international forums may not translate into meaningful change at home.
Pakistan’s environmental woes are not just local concerns; they have global implications as well. As a developing country with significant vulnerabilities to climate change impacts—such as flooding and extreme heat—the need for international support becomes increasingly urgent. The United Nations has warned that climate-related events could shrink Pakistan’s GDP by up to 20% by 2050 if left unaddressed. This statistic underscores the importance of global cooperation in tackling climate change and supporting vulnerable nations.
Public awareness regarding environmental issues is growing among citizens; however, it often competes with immediate economic concerns such as poverty and unemployment. A recent survey indicated that while over 80% of respondents expressed concern about climate change’s impact on future generations, less than a quarter considered it a top priority compared to economic issues. This disconnect highlights the need for comprehensive strategies that integrate environmental sustainability with economic development.
In conclusion, Pakistan faces a complex web of environmental challenges exacerbated by climate change, pollution, and resource mismanagement. With its low ranking on global environmental indices and criticism directed at government inaction, there is an urgent need for effective policies and robust international support to combat these pressing issues. As Romina Khursheed Alam steps into her role as Minister for Climate Change, her leadership will be crucial in determining whether Pakistan can rise to meet these challenges or continue down a path of environmental degradation that threatens both its people and its future.
The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect Coverpage’s editorial stance
