DLP Report
PESHAWAR
Experts from various fields, including environmental specialists, policymakers, and civil society representatives, gathered to discuss Pakistan’s environmental responsibilities, challenges, and opportunities.
The workshop, organized by Alternative Development Services (ADS) and the Center for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI), held in Peshawar focused on the country’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.
Amjad Nazir, Chief Executive of ADS, emphasized the need for a robust provincial response and the allocation of financial resources to fulfill Pakistan’s international environmental commitments.
He highlighted the political challenges hindering the implementation of NDC 3.0 and called for mutual consultation to address these hurdles.
Assistant Chief Environment, Planning and Development Department Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Uzeer Rahim, stressed the importance of data-driven policymaking and the role of provincial governments in bridging governance gaps.
Pakistan had submitted its second NDC in 2021 and is now preparing to submit its third iteration by mid-2025. The workshop reviewed the transition from NDC 2.0 to 3.0, highlighting gaps, opportunities, and the need for a strong policy framework to guide provincial and national strategies.
Obaidullah Chaudhry, Project Manager at CPDI, pointed out the financial constraints affecting NDC implementation. He urged the government to adopt a pragmatic environmental strategy within the country’s limited resources and explore avenues for international climate financing.
Experts underscored the need for a well-coordinated action plan, increased funding for climate-resilient projects, and public-private partnerships to accelerate environmental progress. Special attention was given to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s challenges, particularly glacier preservation.
Participants also discussed policy coherence, implementation gaps, and the critical role of academia, civil society, and the private sector in achieving Pakistan’s environmental goals.
Despite financial constraints, experts reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to protecting ecosystems and biodiversity. They called for data-driven decision-making, enhanced climate financing, and a strategic positioning of Pakistan on the global stage to access environmental funds.
The workshop concluded with a consensus that a strong environmental framework, backed by coordinated governance and financial resources, is essential for Pakistan to meet its climate commitments effectively.
