Climate change transcends borders; it affects everyone, regardless of nationality. So, if today, Pakistan, as a perfect mockery of its vulnerable contributions to global emissions, stands at the edge of the cliff, exasperated by repeated and continuously increasing impacts of global warming, deforestation, and pollution, it could be some other country suffering from the same dilemma tomorrow. What is therefore crucial as temperatures rise, glaciers melt, and extreme weather events become more frequent is a constant show of solidarity from the international community to all those members who, through no fault of their own, are finding themselves in an increasingly precarious position.
Given these challenges, the international community has stepped in to offer support. The UK recently announced funding for seven climate change projects in Pakistan, acknowledging the urgent need for action. Another great win for the homegrown solutions came in the form of $50 million support from the Green Climate Fund for Climaventures Programme as a viable long-term alternative to notorious local public sector funding This support is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done to address the root causes of Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change. Can we really expect the private sector to light up the path out of an extremely dark tunnel? Sobering estimates alone (some believe Pakistan needs a staggering 10 per cent of its GDP to implement comprehensive climate solutions) are enough to knock sense into those standing at the wheel.
To put the onus of the entirety of the problem on others while expecting the authorities not to see the error in their ways, would be for lack of a better word, downright delusional. By providing funding, technology, and expertise, countries around the world can help Pakistan build resilience, reduce emissions, and adapt to the changing climate. Yet, side by side, policymakers need to address their blind spots in climate policy before they approach international lenders with emotional appeals. No qualms about the looming threat of climate change in light of which the need for urgent action has never been greater. More fittingly, climate change is not just a problem for Pakistan – it’s a global challenge that requires a global solution. However, others would only join the fight if they see an earnest desire to build a network of collaborations treating the phenomenon as the transboundary, transnational, multi-headed hydra as it is.