Climate Change: Why Experts Say Human Actions, Not the Sun, Are to Blame

Climate Change and Its Human Connection in Pakistan

As Pakistan faces increasing climate-related disasters, experts are clear: human activities, not nature, are causing these issues. During a climate awareness workshop in Lahore, key voices highlighted the urgent need for action.

It’s Our Actions to Blame

Dr. Muhammad Yunus Zahid, an environmental scientist, pointed out that global warming isn’t just a natural phenomenon. “The emissions from vehicles and industries are the real culprits,” he explained. He introduced concepts like carbon credits and footprints, noting that one mature tree can absorb around 25 kilograms of CO2 yearly. His takeaway? Planting trees is vital in our battle against climate change.

While he acknowledged some progress made by the current government, Dr. Yunus emphasized we must keep pushing for more initiatives.

A Warning from Nature

Environmental lawyer Ahmed Rafay warned that Pakistan is already feeling the fallout of ecological mismanagement. He noted the catastrophic floods of 2022, which drowned two-thirds of the country, as evidence of human-induced climate change. Research from King’s College London supports this, indicating that these extreme rainfalls result from human activities.

Rafay also criticized richer nations for their failure to deliver on climate finance, highlighting an imbalance in international support. “While the U.S. can find $10 billion for aid elsewhere, they fall short on climate justice,” he argued.

Punjab’s Dilemma

Punjab, home to over 127.6 million people, is Pakistan’s economic hub, contributing significantly to agriculture and industry. Yet, rapid urban growth and neglect of environmental issues put this province at risk.

The recently released Punjab State of the Environment Report 2023 revealed alarming statistics:

• Air quality: All nine divisional headquarters exceeded safe PM2.5 levels. Lahore recorded 156 days of hazardous air in 2023.
• Water quality: Only 58% of groundwater samples were fit for irrigation, with contamination from industry and arsenic posing severe threats.
• Soil quality: Industrial waste is harming soil fertility, particularly in Rawalpindi and Multan.
• Climate impact: Sectors like agriculture and energy are major greenhouse gas emitters. Even though 2023 saw cooler temperatures, average heat was still 0.18°C above normal. Urban flooding led to 24,000 damaged homes and impacted 545,000 acres of farmland.

Building Awareness and Responsibility

Dr. Waheed Yousaf, an advisor on climate education, noted that Pakistan ranks among the top 10 countries most affected by climate change. Awareness campaigns are emerging in regions like Rahim Yar Khan and Muzaffargarh to educate the public.

Kanwal Liaqat, the Parliamentary Secretary for Environment, emphasized that tackling climate change is not just an environmental challenge—it’s a moral obligation. She called for broader community involvement.

Ejaz Alam Augustine, a former provincial minister, urged journalists to become climate advocates. “Your stories can drive public awareness, influence policies, and prompt real change,” he stated.

Experts agree: the time for discussion has passed. We need urgent, coordinated efforts from governments, businesses, and civil organizations to tackle climate issues head-on. This is not just about the environment; it’s about the future of our country.

For more details on climate initiatives and support, check out resources from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

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