Climate change is a significant worldwide problem primarily caused by human actions, especially the release of greenhouse gases like CO?, which is currently at its peak in more than two million years. The planet is heating, up rapidly, resulting in significant biodiversity decline, acidification of oceans, melting glaciers, rising ocean levels, and more frequent severe weather occurrences. These effects unevenly impact at-risk communities, with less affluent countries and marginalized groups suffering the most, even though they contribute the least to the issue.
Climate change is speeding up species extinction, disturbing ecosystems, degrading land, and endangering food and water security. Future forecasts indicate that, without significant cuts in emissions and structural changes, the planet may encounter severe environmental, economic, and social repercussions. In the meantime, climate inequality persists, as wealthier countries and individuals account for most emissions while remaining largely protected from their impacts. Charities and international organizations are essential in tackling this crisis by means of advocacy, education, and direct action, but systemic change and worldwide collaboration are vital for ensuring a sustainable future.
2024 will be remembered as the year the climate crisis could no longer be overlooked. Scientists announced with unsettling confidence that it was “almost guaranteed to be the hottest on record.” From unprecedented heatwaves to devastating floods, the climate crisis is unmistakably here. For Pakistan, already balancing on the brink of ecological vulnerability, this is not merely a global concern, it is our everyday experience.
The proof is indisputable. The World Weather Attribution studies from 2024-25 reveal that extreme weather events – such as floods, droughts, wildfires, and hurricanes – have increased in frequency and intensity. These weren’t arbitrary natural events; science now confirms that numerous instances were greatly amplified or rendered more probable due to human-caused climate change. Pakistan, together with Afghanistan and some regions of India, faced heavy rainfall, resulting in catastrophic floods that destroyed homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods. This is consistent with what we understand but have opted to ignore: climate change is not an impending danger. It has arrived, and it is impacting us significantly.
Worldwide, the climate disasters of 2024 resulted in more than 2,000 fatalities and led to an astonishing $229 billion in losses. The United Arab Emirates received two years’ equivalent of rainfall in only one day. In West and Central Africa, more than 1,500 lives were lost due to flooding. The Americas faced devastation as well – enduring severe droughts and wildfires that consumed millions of hectares. In Saudi Arabia, more than 1,300 individuals sadly lost their lives during the Hajj pilgrimage, largely attributable to extreme heat intensified by global warming.
Nevertheless, this is more than merely a climate narrative. Naomi Klein posits in her significant work On Fire that the climate emergency represents a crisis of inequality, governance, and failed systems. Klein argues that the core of our environmental crisis is found in an extractive economy – one that views both the Earth and individuals as expendable in the quest for limitless growth. The global economic system that increases carbon emissions also leaves poorer countries like Pakistan exposed and lacking resources in times of disaster.
In 2025, the global community convened once more – for COP29 – aiming to transition from pledges to concrete actions. For a change, there were a few advancements. Wealthy nations committed to providing a minimum of $300 billion each year through the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) to assist vulnerable nations in adapting to climate change. Importantly, Article 6 of the Paris Agreement was ultimately put into effect, providing a more defined structure for the operation of global carbon markets. These measures are promising, but to be frank – they are late and still inadequate.
Pakistan should not rely on the world to take action. We are at the forefront of the battle against climate change. From the lethal floods of 2022 to the heatwaves of 2024 and now the unpredictable monsoons of 2025, our susceptibility is evident. Still, our reaction continues to be reactive instead of proactive. A strong climate action strategy must be based on resilience, equity, and justice. This involves investing not only in flood defenses or forest plantations, but also in community education, renewable energy, water preservation, and resilient infrastructure.
It also entails facing difficult realities. Our growth model, heavily dependent on fossil fuels and outdated farming methods, contributes to the issue. For Pakistan to succeed in a warmer, tougher future, we must shift towards a green economy – an economy that generates employment while restoring the planet. That change will be difficult. However, as Klein emphatically says, “No is insufficient.” Rejecting fossil fuels, corrupt leadership, or reliance on foreign entities is just the beginning. We should embrace a vision of a future that is more equitable, sustainable, and compassionate.
Hope exists. Youth-driven climate movements globally are calling for justice. Nations in the Global South are starting to unify in their demand for financial resources and technology transfers from the developed countries that hold historical accountability. Pakistan has the potential – and the obligation – to be a frontrunner in this emerging green diplomacy. Yet, merely having hope is not a plan. We require policy supported by research, leadership driven by bravery, and action motivated by promptness. The climate clock isn’t merely counting down; it is sounding warnings.
May the tragedies of 2024 serve a meaningful purpose. May 2025 be the year when Pakistan shapes its destiny – not as a casualty of climate change, but as a strong, resolute country that opted to take action while time remained. To address climate change worldwide, countries must swiftly decrease greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning to renewable energy and eliminating fossil fuels. A worldwide shift to sustainable farming and plant-based diets can reduce emissions from food production systems. Rehabilitating ecosystems and safeguarding biodiversity are essential for preserving the balance of the planet. Fair climate financing should assist at-risk communities that are affected more severely. Ultimately, enhanced global collaboration and the implementation of climate accords are crucial for ensuring a sustainable future for everyone.
