Climate Change in Gilgit-Baltistan: A Threat to Environmental Sustainability

The 29th Conference of the Parties (COP 29) of the United Nations Climate Change Conference, held from November 11-22, 2024, in Baku, Azerbaijan, has defined a new collective goal measured on climate finance (NCQG), aiming to replace and increase the current USD 100 billion per year goal. This development has rekindled hopes for global cooperation in addressing the pressing issue of climate change.

Pakistan, in particular, needs to develop and implement strategies to combat climate change, involving local communities and stakeholders in the process. This requires short-term and long-term planning, executed with dedication and sincerity. The country's mountainous regions, such as Hunza and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB), are particularly vulnerable to the devastating effects of climate change.

Cutting of plants for heating purposes may affect Climate Changes

Erratic weather patterns, characterized by inadequate snowfall in winters and unusual rainfall in summers, have led to droughts and floods, including Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs). These natural disasters have far-reaching consequences for human settlements and wildlife habitats. Furthermore, human activities have significantly contributed to these environmental challenges.

The construction of buildings without adherence to building codes creates environmental hazards that need to be addressed on a priority basis. The reliance on thermal energy sources has resulted in widespread deforestation, as people cut down trees to sustain their lives during harsh winters. The temperature in these regions often drops to -25°C, making alternative energy sources a necessity.

Moreover, the use of plastic wrappers for heating has exacerbated air pollution, affecting both human and wildlife habitats. A disturbing trend in the region is the failure of rivers and lakes to freeze during winters, a phenomenon observed over the past three years. This is a clear indication of the escalating impact of global warming.

To mitigate these environmental challenges, it is essential that the government invests in hydro and solar energy projects, providing sustainable alternatives for cooking, lighting, and supporting home-run industries. Moreover, sustainable tourism policies must be developed and implemented, particularly in the context of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). A bilateral agreement between China and Pakistan, prioritizing sustainable climate change policies, is crucial in this regard.

Existing initiatives, such as the Clean and Green Pakistan program, the UNDP-initiated GLOF project, and state-run initiatives, need to be accelerated with more transparency and accountability. This can be achieved by ensuring result-oriented outcomes, increasing plantation efforts, and implementing effective strategies to minimize pollution.

In conclusion, combating climate change requires a multi-faceted approach, involving governments, communities, and individuals. While there are numerous strategies to prevent environmental pollution, it is essential that these ideas are translated into practical actions, rather than merely being discussed in forums. The need for urgent action cannot be overstated, and it is hoped that collective efforts will lead to positive change, saving our planet from the ravages of climate change.