BY : Muddasir Alam.
Karachi Pakistan : Pakistan faces a multitude of sustainability challenges, many of which are exacerbated by its geographic, economic, and social circumstances. Ranked as one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, the nation grapples with environmental, social, and economic issues that require urgent attention. With a growing population, dwindling natural resources, and a climate that is becoming increasingly unpredictable, Pakistan is at a critical juncture where sustainability efforts are no longer optional—they are essential for survival.
Environmental Degradation and Climate Change
One of the most pressing sustainability issues Pakistan faces is environmental degradation, driven by a combination of deforestation, overpopulation, industrial pollution, and poor waste management practices. Deforestation has had a significant impact on Pakistan’s natural ecosystems, leading to soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and a reduced capacity to mitigate the effects of climate change. Pakistan’s forests cover only about 5% of its land area, far below the international standard of 25%. This limited forest cover exacerbates the country’s vulnerability to extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts.
Pakistan is also highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The country has been ranked as the fifth most affected by climate-related disasters in recent years. The 2022 and 2023 floods, which affected millions of people and caused significant economic losses, highlighted the country’s exposure to climate-induced catastrophes. Pakistan contributes only a small fraction of global greenhouse gas emissions, yet it bears the brunt of climate change impacts, including rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and shrinking water resources.
The melting of glaciers in the Himalayas, which serve as the main source of water for Pakistan’s rivers, poses an existential threat to the country’s agriculture and water security. This, combined with poor water management practices, has led to an acute water crisis. According to estimates, Pakistan will face absolute water scarcity by 2025 if immediate steps are not taken to address the issue.
Waste Management and Pollution
Waste management is another significant sustainability challenge in Pakistan. The country generates approximately 3 million tons of plastic waste annually, with only a small fraction being recycled. Most of this waste ends up in landfills, rivers, and oceans, causing severe environmental pollution and health hazards. The improper disposal of industrial waste, particularly in urban areas, leads to the contamination of water supplies, posing serious risks to public health.
Air pollution is also a growing concern, especially in major cities like Lahore and Karachi. The primary contributors to air pollution are vehicular emissions, industrial activities, and the burning of agricultural waste. During the winter months, smog blankets several cities, leading to increased respiratory problems and other health issues. Despite efforts to mitigate air pollution, weak regulatory enforcement and a lack of public awareness continue to hinder progress.
Social Inequity and Economic Strain
In addition to environmental challenges, Pakistan faces significant social sustainability issues. The country has a rapidly growing population, with a high proportion of young people. While this presents opportunities for economic growth, it also strains existing resources and infrastructure. Poverty remains widespread, with nearly 40% of the population living below the poverty line. Access to basic services, such as healthcare, education, and clean water, is limited, particularly in rural areas.
Social inequity is further compounded by gender disparities. Pakistan ranks near the bottom of the Gender Gap Index, with significant gaps in women’s participation in the workforce, access to education, and political representation. The lack of economic opportunities for women limits the country’s ability to achieve sustainable development.
The country’s economy is also under pressure due to rising inflation, debt, and limited industrial diversification. Pakistan’s reliance on fossil fuels for energy has led to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions, while the transition to renewable energy has been slow. Despite the country’s potential for solar and wind energy, investments in these sectors have been limited, hindering the shift toward a more sustainable energy system.
Impact of Geopolitical and Global Trends
Global trends such as shifting trade policies, geopolitical tensions, and the global energy crisis also impact Pakistan’s sustainability efforts. The country’s reliance on imported energy and commodities makes it vulnerable to fluctuations in global markets. Furthermore, political instability and weak governance structures have hampered the implementation of long-term sustainability initiatives.
Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility
Addressing Pakistan’s sustainability challenges requires a multi-faceted approach that involves government action, corporate responsibility, and community engagement. While the government has initiated several policies, such as the Clean Green Pakistan Movement and the 10 Billion Tree Tsunami, these efforts must be scaled up and implemented with greater urgency and efficiency.
At the corporate level, some companies have taken significant steps to reduce their environmental footprint and promote sustainability. Unilever Pakistan, for example, has integrated sustainability into its core business strategy. The company has set ambitious targets, such as achieving 100% renewable energy for its operations and drastically reducing its plastic footprint. Unilever Pakistan’s initiatives demonstrate how the private sector can play a pivotal role in driving sustainable development, setting an example for others in the industry to follow.