One after another, Pakistan endures successive climate disasters

Mongabay
Mongabay
2M ago
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Pakistan, contributing less than 1% to global carbon emissions, suffers from severe climate disasters, including floods and heat waves, impacting millions.
One after another, Pakistan endures successive climate disasters
A What happened
Pakistan, contributing less than 1% to global carbon emissions, is among the most vulnerable nations to climate change, facing severe disasters like floods and heat waves. Recent catastrophic events include a flash flood in Buner that resulted in over 300 fatalities. The country experiences both compound and sequential climate phenomena, where multiple climate hazards occur simultaneously or trigger subsequent events. Research shows that Pakistan's unique geography, with its vast latitudinal range and significant mountain systems, intensifies its vulnerability. The impacts of climate change have led to increased rainfall, severe droughts, and rising temperatures, causing significant economic losses and displacing millions. Despite adopting a climate change policy in 2012, the implementation remains inadequate, highlighting the need for improved governance and funding to address these urgent challenges.

Key insights

  • 1

    Vulnerability to Climate Change: Pakistan is highly vulnerable to climate change despite low carbon emissions.

  • 2

    Recent Climate Disasters: Recent floods and heat waves have caused significant fatalities and displacement.

  • 3

    Need for Research: Urgent research is needed to understand compound and sequential climate effects.

  • 4

    Inadequate Climate Policies: Current climate policies in Pakistan require significant improvement and funding.

Takeaways

Pakistan's ongoing climate challenges necessitate immediate action and comprehensive research to mitigate future disasters.

Topics

Science & Research Research Health & Medicine Public Health Culture & Society Society Climate & Environment Climate Change World & Politics Governance