Climate Change – An Emerging Threat and Way Forward for Pakistan

Abstract

Climate change is the shift in frequency of weather patterns resulting from fossil fuel consumption since the 1800's. These activities trap more CO2 levels up higher in the atmosphere and lead to spikes in global temperatures. Because of this, we have more extreme temperatures in a shorter timespan than in the history of civilization. This has become a problem in Pakistan, and is one of the most at risk countries according to the Global Climate Risk Index. They account for less than 1% of global greenhouse gas emissions and are environmentally, socially, and economically affected the most. This article attempts to recognize the complexity of climate change in Pakistan looking at the elements, the vulnerabilities in the region, and the socioeconomic dimensions. Some of the most pertinent and problematic climate change consequences that will be looked at are flooding, drought, food insecurity, rapid urbanization, and climate change policy. The agricultural crisis will be looked at as part of the economic and social crises caused by the loss of freshwater and the loss of a healthy population. This research will try to provide an analysis of existing National Climate Change Policy and studies to show some of the most problematic and complex issues that slow or block attempts to achieve resilience against climate change. This research will also try to show some of the complex issues like financial limits and implementation gaps and the need for more interdisciplinary research to slow the environmental crisis that ends the country’s economy.