Private sector innovation needed to deal with climate challenges: Sindh CM

KARACHI: “Our Pakistan is the most affected by climate change. The average annual temperature in Pakistan has increased by about 0.5 degrees Celsius since the 1960s. If we fail to act decisively, there is a possibility of a further increase of 1.3 to 1.5 degrees Celsius by 2050”, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah made these remarks while addressing the 3rd Pakistan Climate Conference.

He said, “These are not just numbers. This is the challenge we face. Sindh is on the frontline of the impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures, heat waves, floods and rising sea levels are a matter of concern.”

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The chief minister said that the people, economy and environment are all facing serious threats. He added, “The 2022 floods destroyed 2.2 million acres of agricultural land. Agriculture is the backbone of Sindh’s economy, which suffered severe damage.” He said that the devastating floods have plunged the country into an economic and social crisis.

“Crop production is declining due to severe heat and water shortage. Climate change threatens food security along with livestock losses,” he said, adding that coastal erosion, water shortage and loss of biodiversity in the Indus Delta, and loss of diversity in mangrove forests are exacerbating the environmental challenges.

He shared that so far, $20 million in carbon credits have been earned. “The World Bank has estimated a potential loss of 18-20 per cent in Pakistan’s GDP by 2050 due to the impacts of climate change. This alarming figure highlights the urgency for collective action,” Sindh CM said.

However, he said that the situation is not all bleak. “Within these challenges lies an opportunity to build a more resilient and sustainable future. The Sindh government is committed to meeting these challenges.”

The CM said that Sindh has allocated Rs10 billion for solarisation, and have also set up three solar parks. He said, “The Sindh government is also doing canal lining. The water discharge from canal lining will be reduced, so pollution will also be reduced.”

The chief minister informed that the provincial government, as well as the federal government have signed declarations with international organisations, to ensure that Pakistan’s climate policies meet the needs of future generations.

He said, “Investing in education and youth leadership is a fundamental pillar of our strategy. We are empowering youth to drive climate solutions. We want youth to be sustainable Act as an agent of change for the future.”

He also informed that Sindh is implementing water-saving practices to help farmers and ensure food security. “We are introducing drought-resistant crops. We are entering into public-private partnerships with various corporate organisations,” he said, adding, “Sindh government is playing a role in promoting modern agriculture and effective irrigation systems.”

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He informed the attendees that over than two billion mangroves have already been planted in different coastal areas of Sindh, adding that the Sindh government is developing two forest blocks of 10,000 acres to improve air quality.

Pakistan is aiming to access resources, expertise, funding for climate adaptation and mitigation projects, he said, adding, “Collaboration is needed at all levels to improve the environment around the world.”

The chief minister also highlighted the need for harnessing private sector innovation to build Sindh and Pakistan. “Let us work with urgency, determination and a shared vision for a sustainable future,” he concluded.