Like other parts of the globe, World Environment Day is being observed in Pakistan today to put a global spotlight on pressing environmental challenges and raise awareness about environmental protection. This year, the theme of the day is ‘Land Restoration, Stopping Desertification and Building Drought Resilience’. According to the UNDP, Pakistan generates approximately 20 million tonnes of waste annually, with five to ten percent being plastic waste, which significantly contributes to the spread of diseases. Ranked among the top 10 countries affected by climate change, Pakistan faces unbearable heatwaves in summer and escalating cold intensity in winter, often resulting in droughts and catastrophic floods. Last year, the country experienced widespread devastation from floods, making it one of the countries most profoundly impacted by climate change.

According to the Global Climate Risk Index by German Watch, Pakistan ranks among the countries most susceptible to natural disasters induced by climate change. From 2000 to 2019, the country experienced 173 such disasters, leading to a loss equivalent to 52 percent of its GDP. With 23 percent of Pakistan's GDP reliant on agriculture, extreme weather conditions negatively impact crop production. Transitioning to climate-smart agriculture is imperative for food security. Environmental experts accentuate that combating the adverse effects of climate change requires effective government policies and individual accountability. Experts caution that addressing climate change necessitates not only halting deforestation and water wastage but also mitigating other sources of pollution, including plastic.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan