Pakistan’s Environmental Challenges: A Looming Crisis for the Future

By Ibne Saif
ibnesaif@gmail.com

In recent years, Pakistan has found itself at the forefront of environmental challenges, with
alarming shifts in climate patterns and natural ecosystems. From glacial melting in the north to
rising sea levels along the coast, the country’s geography positions it as one of the most
vulnerable nations to climate change. The environmental shifts Pakistan is experiencing today
are not merely future threats—they are already affecting millions of lives.
Pakistan’s diverse landscape, which includes mountains, deserts, forests, and coastal areas, is
under immense pressure. The increased frequency of floods, such as the devastating 2022 floods,
shows the country’s fragility in the face of extreme weather events. Rising temperatures and
unpredictable monsoon patterns have also affected agricultural output, leading to food insecurity
in many regions. Droughts in provinces like Sindh and Balochistan are growing more severe,
threatening both human and animal life.
Deforestation and air pollution, particularly in urban centers like Lahore and Karachi, exacerbate
the situation. Pakistan’s forest cover, already below the recommended levels, is being depleted at
an alarming rate due to illegal logging, urban expansion, and poor management of natural
resources. Meanwhile, air quality in major cities has reached hazardous levels, with smog
becoming a regular feature during the winter months.
The environmental crisis in Pakistan has far-reaching social and economic implications.
Agriculture, which employs nearly 40% of the population, is heavily dependent on predictable
weather patterns. As climate change disrupts these patterns, crop yields decrease, food prices
soar, and rural livelihoods are jeopardized. This could push more people into poverty, forcing
rural-to-urban migration, which in turn puts further strain on already overburdened cities.
Moreover, climate change poses significant health risks. Rising temperatures contribute to the
spread of diseases like dengue fever and malaria, while polluted air and water sources lead to

respiratory and waterborne illnesses. The health system, already under strain, will be challenged
even further as these issues escalate.
If immediate and robust action isn’t taken, the future looks bleak. Pakistan’s environmental
problems are compounded by rapid population growth and a lack of sustainable development
policies. However, this challenge also presents an opportunity.
Pakistan can take advantage of global environmental funding mechanisms to invest in green
energy, reforestation projects, and water management systems. The government’s Ten Billion
Tree Tsunami initiative is a positive step, but more comprehensive action is needed. Investments
in solar and wind energy, promoting sustainable farming techniques, and strengthening disaster
preparedness will not only mitigate environmental damage but also create jobs and boost the
economy.
While Pakistan is among the countries most affected by climate change, it contributes less than
1% to global carbon emissions. This highlights a global injustice—those who contribute the least
to environmental degradation often suffer the most. International cooperation and climate finance
are essential for helping countries like Pakistan adapt to these changes.
At the local level, environmental awareness needs to be promoted through education and
community engagement. Individuals, too, can play their part by reducing waste, conserving
water, and supporting eco-friendly practices.
The environmental challenges facing Pakistan are not just a national issue—they are a global
concern. As climate change continues to reshape the world, Pakistan’s ability to adapt and
mitigate its impacts will determine the future well-being of its people. The time for action is
now, and with the right strategies and international support, Pakistan can not only survive but
thrive in an era of environmental uncertainty.