ISLAMABAD, AUG 2: “Disasters show no mercy. They affect everyone, and we need to start planning for them at the community level.” This was the message from Munir Ahmed, an expert in climate and development, during a recent community event on climate change and social cohesion. He emphasized the urgent need for a grassroots action plan to tackle climate challenges in Pakistan, which is highly vulnerable to climate-induced disasters.
The event, organized by Alfalah Without Walls and the Christian Study Centre, brought together diverse voices including faith leaders, educators, youth, and citizens concerned about climate issues. The aim was to discuss how climate change impacts social ties within communities.
Munir Ahmed pointed out that climate change is already affecting daily life in Pakistan. The country faces severe droughts, floods, and heatwaves, with vulnerable groups like women and the elderly bearing the brunt. “Their strength is key to our national response,” he said, highlighting the importance of community resilience.
He noted that climate stress can fracture community bonds. For instance, competition for scarce resources, such as water and food, can lead to distrust. However, he suggested that when communities unite, they can turn adversity into opportunity. “Social cohesion is the bedrock of climate resilience,” he added.
Munir advocated for a shift in how policies are shaped, saying local communities should take the lead. Simple actions like reducing plastic use, conserving water, and organizing community environmental campaigns can make a big difference. He mentioned a ‘green neighborhood’ initiative that Devcom-Pakistan started in 2015, showing how grassroots efforts can grow.
He also spoke about the influence of faith leaders in promoting climate action. “Religious teachings often focus on caring for the Earth and responsible resource use. We should align these values with action for our planet.”
Moreover, he called on local governments and organizations to invest in community-focused climate projects. His idea of creating Community Climate Action Circles would gather various stakeholders to work on tailored solutions, making climate adaptation relevant to local needs.
Participants at the event shared a commitment to take personal climate actions, from minimizing waste to supporting local projects. They also agreed to form a working group for continued engagement and collaboration on small, meaningful community initiatives. A song promoting harmony and collective effort was introduced, underlining the spirit of unity in tackling climate change.
As we face the growing impacts of climate change, grassroots engagement is not just beneficial—it’s essential. When communities come together, they can not only survive but thrive, creating a more resilient future.
