Pakistan Faces $100 Billion Loss from Climate Change, Urgent Call for Stronger Environmental Policies

Pakistan has lost approximately $100 billion due to climate change over the past two decades, a figure close to its $130 billion external debt, experts revealed at an SDPI session on environmental challenges. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, Chairman of HEC, warned that environmental conflicts could impact national security, particularly with clean water and air. Concerns were raised about agricultural land being converted into housing, endangering food security, while climate change currently impacts 8% of Pakistan’s GDP, projected to hit 30% by 2050.

In another session, experts highlighted the urgent health risks from mercury pollution in skin-lightening products. Despite Pakistan’s commitment to banning high-mercury cosmetics, enforcement lags, with only 3 out of 59 products meeting safety standards. Experts stressed stronger regulations to curb climate and mercury-related damage.