The best time to address Pakistan’s climate crisis was yesterday — the next best time is now. For the past 20 years, Pakistan has ranked consistently among the top 10 most vulnerable countries on the Climate Risk Index, and today the United Nations lists it as the fifth most vulnerable country globally. These numbers are not abstract; they translate into escalating floods, increasingly erratic weather, and soaring pollution levels that wreak havoc on the lives and livelihoods of millions. Despite these clear dangers, climate change remains a sidelined issue in Pakistan, lacking the urgency and unified action it demands. Allied Bank has identified the need for a mass awareness campaign to mobilize a public response to this crisis.
Protecting Pakistan’s fragile glacial ecosystems
Pakistan holds more glacial ice than any country outside the polar regions, including the Baltoro Glacier in the Central Karakoram National Park (CKNP). These glaciers are vital for sustaining rivers and water systems. However, rising tourism has led to significant pollution.
- Nearly 33,000 kilograms of waste left behind in the Baltoro and K2 Base Camp region in one season.
- Pollution of ecosystems, increased greenhouse gas emissions, and accelerated glacier melting.
- Contamination of water sources critical to millions downstream.
Pakistan’s waste problem
Waste presents a dual threat in Pakistan’s escalating environmental crisis, driven by both methane emissions and widespread pollution which worsens the country’s climate vulnerability by threatening communities, ecosystems, and wildlife in their path.
- Pakistan is among the top 10 methane emitters globally.
- Methane emissions result from organic waste decomposing in landfills and are responsible for both immediate and long-term global warming.
- Methane is over 80 times more potent than carbon dioxide.
- Plastics and industrial waste remain in soils and rivers.
- Improper recycling and composting systems lead to growing waste accumulation.
Allied Bank spearheading climate change initiatives
In a two-week clean-up trek to K2 Base Camp, Allied Bank’s team collected 1,200 kilograms of garbage, showcasing the impact of targeted environmental initiatives.
This climate crisis requires immediate action. Reducing waste, supporting clean-up efforts, and advocating for stronger policies can mitigate damage and build resilience.