ISLAMABAD, PAKISTAN: A growing number of Pakistanis are now voicing support for stronger climate action, with a new World Bank survey revealing that 34 percent of citizens are ready to back government-led environmental initiatives. The surge marks a significant shift in public awareness as Pakistan continues to battle the devastating effects of floods, droughts, and rising temperatures.
The findings indicate a pivotal moment for Pakistan’s leadership to harness public will toward sustainable reforms. As one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change, Pakistan has faced repeated disasters — from the 2022 floods that displaced millions to the ongoing water scarcity threatening agriculture and livelihoods.
Experts believe the growing climate consciousness could pave the way for policy reforms, green investments, and adaptation measures across both federal and provincial levels. However, the report also exposes a worrying trust gap — with around one-third of rural respondents admitting they do not trust any available source of climate information.
Despite this, the rising support signals a turning point. Citizens are increasingly open to policies such as renewable energy expansion, reforestation, waste reduction, and stricter emission controls. Analysts suggest that if the government aligns its climate agenda with this emerging public sentiment, Pakistan could finally move from reactive measures to a long-term climate resilience strategy.
The report further warns that without urgent action, Pakistan could face economic losses of up to 20 percent of its GDP by 2050, underscoring the need to channel this public momentum into tangible policies.
For policymakers, the message is clear — Pakistan’s people are ready for change. What remains to be seen is whether leadership can translate this readiness into results before the cost of inaction grows irreversible.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.