| Executive Summary Pakistan contributes less than 1% of global carbon emissions, yet ranks among the most climate-vulnerable countries in the world. The country is experiencing severe climate shocks such as floods, glacial melt, cloudbursts, erratic monsoons, and heatwaves. These events are not only causing large-scale loss of life and property but also reversing decades of hard-won progress in poverty reduction and development. Climate change has become a poverty multiplier, displacing millions, destroying livelihoods, and exacerbating food insecurity. Without urgent adaptation and resilience-building measures, Pakistan risks slipping further into a cycle of poverty, disaster, and underdevelopment. Background Low Contribution, High Vulnerability: Pakistan emits less than 1% of global greenhouse gases but consistently ranks among the top 10 countries most affected by climate change. Reversal of Gains: The poverty reduction achieved in the past two decades is under threat as climate disasters disproportionately impact the poor, particularly women, farmers, and marginalized communities. Climate Disasters: The 2010 and 2022 floods displaced millions and caused cumulative losses exceeding $30 billion. Pakistan has over 7,500 glaciers, the highest outside the polar regions; accelerated melting poses grave risks of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). Erratic monsoon spells are killing hundreds annually, causing mass displacement, and destroying crops, livestock, and infrastructure. Key Impacts Poverty and Livelihoods: Agriculture, the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, is highly climate-sensitive. Floods and droughts wipe out crops, pushing small farmers into debt and poverty. Displacement: Millions are forced to migrate temporarily or permanently due to flooding, leading to urban overcrowding and social stresses. Health Crises: Climate-induced floods and heatwaves are spreading waterborne and vector-borne diseases. Infrastructure Losses: Roads, bridges, schools, and health facilities are repeatedly destroyed, draining fiscal resources. Gendered Impact: Women, particularly in rural areas, face the brunt of climate shocks due to care burdens, food insecurity, and lack of adaptive resources. Policy Recommendations 1. Strengthen Climate Adaptation and Resilience Develop climate-smart agriculture systems and promote drought/flood-resistant crops. Expand water storage, irrigation, and efficient early warning systems. 2. Invest in Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Strengthen NDMA’s capacity and coordination mechanisms. Introduce community-based disaster preparedness programs. 3. Leverage Climate Finance Access international funds such as the Green Climate Fund (GCF) and Loss & Damage Fund. Encourage climate-resilient investments through public-private partnerships. 4. Protect the Vulnerable Expand social protection programs (e.g., BISP) with a climate lens to support displaced and climate-affected households. Ensure women and marginalized communities are at the center of adaptation policies. 5. International Climate Justice Advocate for global climate justice, emphasizing that Pakistan is a victim, not a perpetrator. Push for debt relief and climate reparations to enable resilience investments. Conclusion Pakistan stands at a crossroads where climate change threatens to undo decades of development progress. Though its carbon footprint is negligible, the costs it bears are disproportionately high. A proactive approach—combining domestic adaptation, international climate finance, and strong governance—is essential to prevent climate-induced poverty traps. Without urgent action, climate shocks will continue to reverse poverty reduction gains, undermining Pakistan’s human development and stability. |
