Is there a Solution to Pakistan’s Climate problem | ft Yasir Shah & Osama Rizvi | Ep: 67 | WTI Talks

Summary

This video discusses Pakistan's vulnerability to climate change, despite its minimal contribution to global carbon emissions. Key issues such as heatwaves, floods, and pollution in industries and transport are highlighted. The video emphasizes government efforts like the National Green Air Program and renewable energy plans, but acknowledges the need for stronger policies. It also calls for international assistance, especially in technology transfer and climate finance, to help Pakistan mitigate and adapt to climate challenges. The discussion concludes by stressing the importance of Pakistan establishing a strong regional presence on climate action.

Takeaways

• 😀 The effects of climate change in Pakistan are rapidly increasing, including heatwaves, floods, and crop damage.
• 🌍 Climate change is not only about deforestation or melting icebergs; it impacts every aspect of life, including health, economy, and energy.
• 🚗 The transport sector and inefficient use of fossil fuels by industries are major contributors to Pakistan's climate issues, causing significant air pollution.
• 💡 The Pakistani government is working on various climate policies, such as the National Green Air Program, renewable energy plans, and plastic prohibition initiatives.
• 📉 Despite contributing less than 1% to global carbon emissions, Pakistan is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, ranking 8th on the vulnerability index.
• 🌎 The international community’s inaction on climate change disproportionately impacts countries like Pakistan, which are not the major contributors but suffer the consequences.
• 💰 The international community should focus on providing technology and capacity-building rather than just financial aid, which often doesn't reach the countries in need.
• 🚜 The agriculture sector in Pakistan is highly affected by climate change, with erratic rainfall and heatwaves damaging crops, which could lead to an increase in food imports and inflation.
• ⚡ Renewable energy, especially electric vehicles, is starting to gain traction in Pakistan, but the transition is slow due to high costs and limited government support.
• 🛠️ Pakistan's climate response requires technological innovation, such as carbon capture and direct air capture systems, to address industrial emissions effectively.
• 💡 The need for a legal framework, like a Net Zero law, is critical in Pakistan to ensure a structured and organized approach to decarbonization and environmental preservation.

Q & A

How are recent climate changes affecting Pakistan?

Recent climate changes in Pakistan are causing extreme weather conditions such as more frequent and intense heatwaves, floods, and storms. These changes are impacting agriculture, health, and the economy, particularly through crop damage and increased food imports, which lead to inflation and a cost-of-living crisis.

What are the major factors driving climate change in Pakistan?

The primary factors driving climate change in Pakistan include inefficiencies in the transport sector, the use of fossil fuels by industries, deforestation, and inadequate waste management. The country also faces issues with industrial pollution, old vehicles, and crop burning, which contribute significantly to environmental degradation.

What steps is the Pakistani government taking to combat climate change?

The Pakistani government has implemented several initiatives, such as the National Green Air Program, an adaptation plan, and a plastic prohibition program. Additionally, there are plans to reduce carbon emissions by 60% within the next 10 years and promote the use of electric vehicles. However, there are challenges with scale and impact.

How does Pakistan contribute to global carbon emissions?

Pakistan is a relatively small contributor to global carbon emissions, accounting for less than 1% of total emissions. However, it remains highly vulnerable to climate change, ranking eighth on the vulnerability index due to the impacts of global emissions on its environment.

Why is it important for Pakistan to address climate change despite its low emissions?

Although Pakistan contributes minimally to global carbon emissions, it suffers disproportionately from the impacts of climate change, such as floods, heatwaves, and agricultural disruptions. The international community’s actions to address global emissions significantly affect Pakistan, making it crucial for the country to adapt and mitigate these changes.

What role does the international community play in helping Pakistan address climate change?

The international community should provide technological assistance, such as carbon capture technologies, rather than just financial aid. Pakistan needs access to climate technologies and capacity-building programs, which can help address the root causes of climate change and assist in sustainable development.

What is the relationship between industrial emissions and climate change in the global context?

The emissions from industrial economies, particularly those in the Global North, contribute significantly to climate change, yet the impacts are often felt in the Global South, including countries like Pakistan. This asymmetrical relationship shows that countries with lower emissions suffer the most from climate disasters.

What is the issue with the current international climate aid system?

The international climate aid system is flawed, with only a fraction of promised funds being delivered to developing countries. This has created a growing divide, with the funds available failing to match the scale of natural disasters that are disproportionately affecting poorer nations.

How does the lack of technological advancements impact Pakistan's fight against climate change?

The absence of advanced technologies, such as carbon capture systems, limits Pakistan's ability to effectively mitigate climate change. Though there are technological solutions available globally, Pakistan lacks the necessary infrastructure and funding to implement them on a large scale.

What is the concept of 'climate debt,' and how can it help Pakistan?

Climate debt refers to the responsibility of developed nations to compensate developing countries for the damage caused by their historical emissions. Instead of just providing financial aid, the international community should focus on providing climate technologies and capacity-building, enabling countries like Pakistan to develop sustainable solutions to combat climate change.