By: Nazish Altaf
As for COP 28, it refers to the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). COP is an annual gathering where countries come together to discuss and negotiate actions to address climate change.
COP conferences generally aim to assess progress in dealing with climate change, set new targets, and negotiate agreements to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. They provide a platform for countries to collaborate, share knowledge, and work towards global climate goals. The perspectives of COP 28 will likely involve discussions on mitigation strategies, adaptation measures, financing for climate action, and other relevant topics.
Balochistan, a province in southwestern Pakistan, has indeed been facing various climate-related challenges, including floods, droughts, and migration. These climate disasters have had significant impacts on the region and its population. It’s true that being well-prepared is crucial in mitigating the impacts of natural disasters. It’s important to remember that every country faces unique challenges and has different levels of preparedness, there are ongoing efforts to address these issues and improve disaster preparedness in Pakistan. Governments, organizations, and communities are working together to develop comprehensive plans, raise awareness, and implement preventive measures. It’s also worth noting that Pakistan has made progress in disaster management, including the establishment of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in 2005. The NDMA plays a crucial role in coordinating and implementing disaster response efforts.
The funds wanted next budget to be for planning mechanism and investment portfolios, based on climatic adaptations. At the moment PAKISTANS capital stock and efficiency of public investment are low. IMF HAS UNDERSCORED the need of improving transparency on climate related actions in the budget documents in providing information on key aspects of public investment programme. It wants planning commission along with ministry of climate change and finance ministry with come up with the proposal that it can be included in the next budget and present its budget for on- going Fiscal year.
Global warmings has changed the trajectory of many things around the globe especially Pakistan ACCORDING TO AN ARTICLE PUBLISHED IN DAWN THE CLIMATIC RESILIENCE “ THE WORLDS BANK COUNTRY CLIMATE AND WEATHER REPORT HAS ESTIMATED THAT 6.5 TO 6.9 OF ANNUAL GDP WILL BE LOST IN COPING WITH CLIMATE RELATED DISASTERS BY 2050.UNLESS THE CHALLENGE TO LESSEN THE IMPACT OF INCREASING FLOODS AND HEATWAVES WHICH ARE REDUCING THE FARM YIELDS DESTROYING INFRASTRUCTURE AND LOWERING LABOUR PRODUCTIVITY IS ADRESSED”.
Floods in Balochistan can occur due to heavy rainfall or cyclonic activity, leading to the overflow of rivers and flash floods. These events can cause widespread damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and livelihoods, as well as displacement of communities.
Droughts, on the other hand, result from prolonged periods of low rainfall and can lead to water scarcity, crop failure, and livestock losses. Droughts effected agricultural productivity and the availability of drinking water, posing challenges to the local population.
The combination of these climate disasters, along with other factors such as poverty and political instability, has contributed to migration and wiping out the crops and infra structures worth 30bn dollars and it shows a great need and effort to be placed to achieve climatic resilient infrastructures .Investing in sound climatic-related public investment management is indeed crucial for Pakistan’s economic resilience and disaster preparedness. By implementing effective measures, we can mitigate the devastating effects of natural disasters and ensure a more sustainable future.
One way to achieve this is by promoting green infrastructure development. By investing in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, Pakistan can reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and decrease its carbon footprint. Additionally, improving water management systems and implementing flood control measures can help minimize the impact of heavy rains and flooding.
Furthermore, enhancing early warning systems and disaster response mechanisms can significantly reduce the loss of life and property during natural disasters. By investing in advanced technology and training for emergency response teams, we can improve overall preparedness and ensure a swift and effective response.
Additionally, promoting sustainable agriculture practices and supporting farmers in adopting climate-resilient techniques can help mitigate the impact of extreme weather events on the agricultural sector, which is vital for Pakistan’s economy. People may be forced to leave their homes in search of better living conditions, access to resources, or to escape the impacts of climate-related challenges.
It is important to note that addressing these climate-related issues requires a comprehensive approach involving disaster preparedness, sustainable water management, agricultural practices, and socio-economic development. Efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change, along with support for affected communities, can help alleviate the impacts of climate disasters in vulnerable regions.
Climate change has had significant impacts in Pakistan. The region has experienced various changes and challenges due to climate change, affecting its environment, economy, and communities.
One of the key impacts of climate change is the alteration of weather patterns. The province has witnessed changes in precipitation patterns, including irregular rainfall and prolonged droughts. These changes have led to water scarcity, reduced agricultural productivity, and increased desertification, posing challenges to the livelihoods of local communities dependent on agriculture and livestock.
Additionally, rising temperatures have contributed to heatwaves and increased the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as cyclones and floods. These events have caused damage to infrastructure, loss of lives, and displacement of communities, further exacerbating the vulnerability of the region.
The threat of climate change has diversified through various channels. Apart from the direct impacts on the environment and communities, climate change has indirect effects on sectors such as health, water resources, and food security. It poses challenges to public health by increasing the risk of waterborne diseases, heat-related illnesses, and malnutrition.
Furthermore, the changing climate has disrupted ecosystems and biodiversity. It has led to shifts in vegetation patterns, loss of habitats, and changes in wildlife behavior. These changes have implications for the ecological balance and the availability of natural resources.
To address the diversified threat of climate change, it is crucial to implement adaptation and mitigation measures. These may include sustainable water management practices, promoting climate-resilient agriculture, enhancing early warning systems for extreme weather events, and raising awareness about climate change impacts and adaptation strategies among local communities.
It is important to note that the specific impacts and diversification of climate change threats may vary across different regions and communities within the province. Conducting localized studies and engaging with local stakeholders can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the situation and help tailor effective climate change responses. The region has experienced various changes and challenges due to climate change, affecting its environment, economy, and community. One of the key impacts of climate change is the alteration of weather patterns. The province has witnessed changes in precipitation patterns, including irregular rainfall and prolonged droughts. These changes have led to water scarcity, reduced agricultural productivity, and increased desertification, posing challenges to the livelihoods of local communities dependent on agriculture, in addition , rising temperatures have contributed to heatwaves and increased the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as cyclones and floods. These events have caused damage to infrastructure, loss of lives, and displacement of communities, further exacerbating the vulnerability of the region.
While there is still work to be done, it’s essential to acknowledge the resilience of the Pakistani people who have faced adversity time and again. Let’s hope that with continued efforts and support, Pakistan will become even better equipped to cope with natural disasters in the future and cop 28, will transform the shape of global response and fate of vulnerable countries like Pakistan.