COP-28 and Pakistan: Crafting a Sustainable Climate Future
COP-28 is the 28th Conference of Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The conference is scheduled to be held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, in November 2023. The conference aims to discuss and address climate change issues and their impact on the world. The conference is expected to be attended by representatives from nearly 200 countries, including Pakistan.
Pakistan has been facing severe environmental challenges due to climate change. According to data from the Global Climate Risk Index 2022, Pakistan ranked 5th among the countries most affected by climate change. This vulnerability is evident in experiencing extreme weather conditions such as heatwaves, floods, droughts, and smog. These conditions have had a significant impact on the country’s economy, agriculture, and health sector. The economic toll of climate change in Pakistan is substantial. The Asian Development Bank estimated that Pakistan’s economic losses due to climate change could amount to 9-14% of its GDP by 2050. Therefore, it is essential for Pakistan to take measures to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Pakistan has taken several initiatives to address climate change issues. The country has launched several projects aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting renewable energy sources, and increasing forest cover. The country has set a target of generating 60% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Pakistan has also launched several initiatives such as the Billion Tree Tsunami project which aims to plant one billion trees by 2023. The government has also introduced policies to promote electric vehicles and reduce carbon emissions from the transport sector.
During a recent visit by Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, President-designate of COP 28 and UAE’s Special Envoy for Climate Change, Minister for Industries and Technologies, MD and CEO of ADNOC and Chairman MASDAR to Pakistan, a memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the UAE’s Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure and the Government of Pakistan. The MoU outlines a roadmap for investment in renewable energy projects in Pakistan. This is a significant step towards achieving a just energy transition and scaling up renewables in Pakistan.
The MoU signed between Pakistan and UAE is a significant step towards achieving a just energy transition and scaling up renewables in Pakistan. This will not only help reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also create job opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
Pakistan’s participation in COP28 can help the country secure funding for climate adaptation and mitigation projects. The Green Climate Fund (GCF) was established under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to help developing countries finance their climate actions. Pakistan has already received $50 million from GCF for its climate projects. By participating in COP26, Pakistan can secure more funding for its climate projects.
In conclusion, COP-28 is an important conference that aims to address climate change issues. Pakistan’s participation in COP-28 is crucial because it provides an opportunity for the country to raise its voice on climate change issues and advocate for its interests. Pakistan can also learn from other countries’ experiences and best practices in mitigating and adapting to climate change. The MoU signed between Pakistan and UAE is a significant step towards achieving a just energy transition and scaling up renewables in Pakistan. Pakistan has taken several initiatives to address climate change issues, but more needs to be done to mitigate the effects of climate change.