Climate change and global warming have evolved from mere buzzwords to clear indicators of an impending crisis threatening global societies, economies, and food systems. The year 2023 marked the warmest year globally, with temperatures rising by 1.1 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial levels, and projections suggest a further increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius by 2030 if current trends persist unchecked.
Developing countries, where agriculture supports over 80 percent of livelihoods, are particularly vulnerable. The World Bank warns that climate change could push an additional 100 million people into extreme poverty by 2030, with smallholder farmers facing significant yield losses in staple crops such as rice and maize.
Pakistan, exemplified by the 2022 superfloods impacting over 33 million people, illustrates the destructive impact of climate change. Economic forecasts predict an 18-20 percent reduction in GDP by 2050 due to climate-related challenges, particularly affecting agriculture and food security.
While Pakistan has engaged in global dialogues like COP27, a more unified and comprehensive strategy is needed. Although policies like the National Climate Change Policy Framework and the Pakistan Climate Change Act exist, institutional and strategic gaps hinder their effectiveness.
The proposed National Climate Authority aims to address these gaps by facilitating cross-sectoral coordination, crucial for integrating climate resilience into national development strategies. Additionally, innovative financing approaches, including leveraging flood survivors' recovery efforts and exploring carbon markets, are essential to bolstering domestic resilience.
Empowering local governments and communities to lead grassroots climate actions is pivotal, but requires a well-defined institutional framework. The establishment of a functional Pakistan Climate Change Council could guide the country towards a sustainable trajectory, embedding climate resilience into national development.
Transitioning to this framework is daunting yet imperative for preserving Pakistan's environmental legacy and securing the well-being of future generations amidst an increasingly unpredictable climate landscape.
Please find the original version of the article below:
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1174712-a-climate-change-authority
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