The year 2024 has been etched into history as the hottest year on record, amplifying the impacts of climate change worldwide. Pakistan, already vulnerable to extreme weather events, bore a significant share of the burden, grappling with soaring temperatures and catastrophic floods.
With temperatures exceeding 50°C, millions of children were forced to stay home from school during the sweltering summer months. In August, devastating floods once again tested the nation’s resilience, inundating communities and straining resources. The global picture was equally grim: Greece faced its earliest heatwave on record, sparking wildfires and closing the Acropolis, while deadly flash floods in Valencia, Spain, claimed over 200 lives.
A study by the World Weather Attribution network revealed that nearly every major disaster in 2024 was exacerbated by climate change. For Pakistan, this translated into relentless heatwaves, recurring floods, and mounting pressure on its agricultural and urban infrastructure. Experts warn that 2025 could bring even greater challenges.
Steps Toward Sustainability
Amid the chaos, Pakistan has taken a pivotal step by joining a $45 million nine-nation programme aimed at reducing the environmental impact of the fashion and construction sectors—two of the largest contributors to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative, focusing on sustainable supply chains and eco-friendly practices, could serve as a blueprint for other industries.
A Roadmap for Resilience
To combat the escalating climate crisis, Pakistan must implement targeted measures to build resilience:
- Climate-Smart Agriculture: Support farmers with adaptive techniques to withstand erratic weather patterns.
- Urban Flood Management: Develop sustainable drainage systems to prevent urban flooding.
- Renewable Energy: Promote community-led renewable energy projects to reduce emissions.
- Disaster Preparedness: Improve early warning systems and emergency response mechanisms to minimize losses.
- International Climate Finance: Ensure transparency and efficiency in utilizing global climate funds.
The Global Context and the Path Forward
The COP29 summit highlighted the glaring gap in climate finance, with only $300 billion pledged annually against the $1.3 trillion needed to meet Paris Agreement goals. This underscores the need for Pakistan to act decisively. While continuing to demand international climate justice, the country must also prioritize domestic climate action.
2024 has sent a clear message: the era of waiting for global consensus is over. For Pakistan, climate action is no longer optional—it is an urgent shared responsibility. With focused efforts, 2025 could mark the beginning of a more resilient and sustainable future.
