Join the Movement: How Collective Action Can Combat the Climate Crisis

Climate change impacts are hitting harder than ever. We’re witnessing wildfires in North America, heatwaves in Europe, and intense floods across Asia. These events illustrate just how serious the issue of global warming has become. It’s not just a distant problem; it’s right here, affecting lives, economies, and ecosystems daily.

Developing countries feel this impact the most, and Pakistan is particularly vulnerable. Recent findings from the World Bank in their Country Climate and Development Report indicate that climate-related events could slash Pakistan’s GDP by 18-20% by 2050. These figures suggest an urgent need for action.

In the past two decades, Pakistan has faced an increasing number of extreme weather events. For instance, in 2022, heavy monsoon rains led to catastrophic floods, affecting over 33 million people and inflicting over $30 billion in damages. Almost two million homes were lost, along with countless livestock. This disaster exposed not only environmental issues but also the fragility of social and economic structures vulnerable to such shocks.

Health is another critical area affected by climate change. The World Health Organization points out that environmental factors lead to 200 deaths per 100,000 people in Pakistan each year. Outdoor air pollution contributes to around 22,000 premature deaths annually—an alarming truth that underscores the need for climate initiatives.

To counter these challenges, collaboration is key. Public institutions, private companies, and communities must unite to build resilience and reduce emissions. This collective effort is vital for preparing for the future.

Leading Exploration and Production (E&P) companies in Pakistan are beginning to recognize this duty. At the COP28 conference in December 2023, companies like OGDCL, PPL, and GHPL signed the Decarbonization Charter, committing to support climate change initiatives and align their operations with sustainability goals.

OGDCL has launched several initiatives to lessen its environmental impact. Their tree-plantation campaign, in partnership with local communities and academic institutions, aims to plant thousands of trees. This effort is vital for restoring biodiversity and improving air quality, helping to offset carbon emissions.

Additionally, OGDCL is investing in renewable energy. In Lakki Marwat, they solarized 30 homes, providing off-grid communities with access to clean electricity. They’ve also installed solar water systems in Balochistan, ensuring sustainable water access in areas with water scarcity. These projects not only help the environment but also support local communities.

In 2023, OGDCL rolled out its Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Policy and developed a comprehensive Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Strategy for 2025. This strategy focuses on reducing emissions through flaring reduction programs, methane leak detection, and setting measurable targets for emission reductions.

The path to climate resilience requires action from everyone. Governments should create policies that support sustainability. Citizens must strive to cut down on waste and consumption. Companies need to integrate eco-friendly practices into their core operations.

As we approach World Environment Day 2025, the message is clear: it’s time to act. All stakeholders must respond with urgency, innovation, and commitment to foster a sustainable future.

(The writer is a student of BSc Environmental Engineering at NUST Islamabad)

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