Climate change becoming Pakistan’s biggest challenge, UN report warns
Climate change is becoming a serious global challenge, mainly because of greenhouse gases produced by coal, oil and gas, as well as large-scale deforestation. Although Pakistan contributes only about one percent to global greenhouse gas emissions, it continues to face some of the worst climate-related impacts.
Extreme heat, unusual rainfall, destructive floods, droughts, water shortages and rapidly melting glaciers are becoming more common across the country. These changes are affecting the daily lives of millions of people and increasing the risk of natural disasters.
According to the United Nations Pakistan Annual Report 2025, climate change is no longer only an environmental issue. It has become a major threat to Pakistan’s economy, agriculture, healthcare, water resources, food security and future development.
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The report warns that without timely and effective action, the effects of climate change could become much more severe in the coming years. It stresses the need for stronger planning and long-term solutions to reduce future risks.
Pakistan is home to one of the world’s largest collections of glaciers outside the polar regions. These glaciers provide water to millions of people, but rising temperatures are causing them to melt at a faster pace.
The rapid melting of glaciers has increased the danger of glacial lake outburst floods. Thousands of families living in northern areas face this threat every year and remain vulnerable to sudden disasters.
To reduce these risks, the United Nations has worked with the Government of Pakistan to install modern early warning systems in high-risk areas. These systems are designed to alert communities before disasters strike and help save lives.
However, experts believe that warning systems alone cannot solve the growing climate crisis. They say stronger environmental policies and practical action are also needed to reduce future damage.
Climate change is also affecting Pakistan’s agriculture, which is one of the country’s most important economic sectors. In some areas, rainfall arrives too early, while in others it comes too late or not at all.
Heavy rain within a few hours can destroy crops that farmers have worked on for months. As a result, farmers are facing growing uncertainty, while food production is also under pressure.
Experts warn that if these conditions continue, food security could become a major national concern in the future. Lower agricultural output may also increase pressure on the country’s economy.
Air pollution has become another serious problem in Pakistan’s major cities. Every year, smog causes health problems for millions of people, especially children, older adults and those suffering from asthma.
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The report says clean air is a basic right for every citizen. It recommends controlling industrial pollution, promoting cleaner fuels and improving urban planning to protect public health.
The United Nations has also highlighted the importance of protecting forests, biodiversity and natural resources. Trees not only improve the environment but also play a key role in reducing the effects of climate change.
Despite various tree plantation campaigns, Pakistan’s forest cover remains below international standards. Experts say planting more trees will only make a difference if they are properly protected and maintained.
The government has launched several projects related to renewable energy, environmentally friendly development and climate action. The United Nations is also supporting Pakistan through different environmental programmes.
The report says real success will come only when these initiatives move beyond official plans and produce visible improvements in the lives of ordinary people. Strong cooperation between the government, private sector and citizens will be essential to meet the growing climate challenge.
Pakistan is already experiencing the effects of climate change in many areas of life. Long-term planning, stronger environmental protection and public awareness will be just as important as emergency response systems.
