Beyond COP28

As the world anticipates the COP28 meeting in the UAE, the pressing issues and potential pathways for climate-vulnerable nations, particularly Pakistan, come to the forefront. The acknowledgment that COP28 may offer positive opportunities is tempered by the understanding that it is not a remedy for the systemic disparities encountered by developing nations.

Central to these concerns is the uneven playing field in accessing public financing and attracting private investment for sustainable initiatives. Developing nations, including Pakistan, grapple with a unique set of challenges distinct from those of developed countries and other better-equipped economies. The staggering cost of $178 trillion to the global economy between 2021 and 2070, if climate change remains unchecked, accentuates the urgency for robust climate action. This economic toll serves as a reminder of the imperative for developing nations to secure necessary resources for mitigation and adaptation efforts to avert a catastrophic future. Therefore, advocates stress the need for sustained efforts beyond the conference, recognising that the challenges faced by climate-vulnerable nations require ongoing collaboration and innovative solutions. A country like Pakistan can no longer sit in the back burner and rely on leading nations to decide its faith. They must look far beyond the conference to secure strategic investments to minimise losses in the long run. The country’s leadership must actively engage with international partners, private sectors and financial institutions to foster collaborations that go beyond the scope of COP conferences.

The imperative lies in leveraging strategic investments to build resilience, drive sustainable development and create a robust infrastructure that withstands the challenges posed by climate change. Initiatives in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture and climate-smart technologies must take centre stage in securing a more resilient and sustainable future for Pakistan.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 25^th, 2023.

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