The best time to address Pakistan’s climate crisis was yesterday — the next best time is now. For over two decades, Pakistan has ranked among the top 10 most vulnerable countries on the Climate Risk Index. Today, the United Nations ranks Pakistan as the fifth most vulnerable country globally.
These statistics represent more than just numbers — they reflect escalating floods, erratic weather, and hazardous pollution that impact the health and livelihoods of millions. Yet, climate change remains a marginalized issue, lacking the unified action it desperately needs.
Allied Bank has recognized this urgent challenge and launched a nationwide awareness campaign to encourage collective response and public engagement.
Protecting Pakistan’s Fragile Glacial Ecosystems
Pakistan holds more glacial ice than any country outside the polar regions — including the Baltoro Glacier in Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP). These glaciers are essential for Pakistan’s rivers and water systems.
However, unsustainable tourism has led to:
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Nearly 33,000 kilograms of waste were left behind in the Baltoro and K2 Base Camp regions in just one season
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Increased pollution and greenhouse gas emissions
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Accelerated glacier melting
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Contaminated water sources, impacting millions downstream
Pakistan’s Waste Problem
Waste management is a dual threat in Pakistan’s environmental landscape — contributing both to methane emissions and large-scale pollution.
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Pakistan is among the top 10 methane emitters globally.
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Methane is over 80 times more potent than CO₂, accelerating global warming.
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Poor waste segregation and recycling cause long-term environmental harm.
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Plastics and industrial waste contaminate rivers, soil, and marine ecosystems.
Allied Bank Spearheading Climate Change Initiatives
To support the environment, Allied Bank’s team conducted a two-week clean-up trek to K2 Base Camp, successfully collecting 1,200 kilograms of garbage — a testament to the effectiveness of targeted environmental action.