Pakistan

Pakistan ranks 15th in the CCPI. The country receives a very high rating in GHG Emissions and Energy Use, low in Climate Policy, and very low in Renewable Energy.

Building climate policy on the concept of common but differentiated responsibilities, Pakistan’s newly submitted NDC 3.0 includes a differentiation of the 2035 targets for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions and renewables installation alongside the condition of external climate finance supporting the transition. The CCPI country experts maintain that implementation hinges on consultation with sub-national administrations, as well as regional targets complementing national policies.

The experts are concerned that this outcome may result in a gap emerging between national policy and targets on the one hand, and actual implementation on the other. They also have concern that, without this sort of vertical partnership, enforcement mechanisms, domestic financing, and desperately needed adaptation efforts may not be put in place in time. The experts classify the limited integration of local knowledge and experiences as a weak point and demand closer cooperation between the private and public sectors.

Highly vulnerable to climate change effects and seeking L&D finance justice, committed to renewables amid implementation challenges

While overall energy use levels remain very low, policies have been introduced to increase energy efficiency and foster green electrification of key sectors. A long-term vision, however; is missing and would help reduce the use of fossil fuels. It would also add to the fight against the noxious smog the recurs regularly in cities such as Karachi and Lahore.

The experts welcome the renewed commitment to promoting rapid expansion of renewables, especially solar photovoltaics. Hydropower and wind power are also surging, but some obstacles remain unaddressed, including limited electricity grid capacity. Resulting issues with electricity transmission and distribution have been widely reported. Moreover, the experts criticise the overreliance on external finance and the lack of an established policy framework to maintain momentum in renewables installation.

Recurrent floods heavily affect livelihoods in large parts of the country’s population, as Pakistan is considered greatly vulnerable and severely exposed to the climate crisis. It is, thus, no coincidence that the government has been at the forefront of the climate finance debate in recent years, demanding substantial and flexible monetary climate justice transfers to adequately address the loss and damage mainly caused by the world’s major emitters. Pakistan collaborates with other especially vulnerable nations and has joined several international initiatives, including, recently, the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Key Outcomes

Pakistan ranks 15th in the CCPI
The country’s newly submitted NDC 3.0 includes a differentiation of the 2035 targets for GHG emissions reductions and renewables installation alongside the condition of external climate finance supporting the transition
Key demands: stronger coordination mechanisms between national and regional levels.