In January 2023, Europe experienced its third warmest January on record, a stark indicator of climate change’s impact on the continent. This unusual warmth shattered temperature records across Europe, significantly affecting winter tourism and outdoor activities, notably forcing the closure of many ski resorts due to insufficient snow cover. Countries such as Italy and Spain saw temperatures soar above 25°C (77°F), with at least eight countries reporting their warmest January day on record. The warmth was not isolated to Southern Europe; even Central Europe experienced record-breaking temperatures, with Poland and the Czech Republic reaching up to 19°C (66°F).

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) explained this phenomenon as the result of a high-pressure zone over the Mediterranean clashing with an Atlantic low-pressure system, drawing warm air from Northwestern Africa across Europe. Moreover, sea surface temperatures in the eastern North Atlantic were 1°C to 2°C higher than average, contributing to the unusual warmth. This event exemplifies the direct consequences of climate change, with experts warning that extreme weather events will become more frequent and severe.

Furthermore, the warmth affected winter sports, with the ski World Cup in Adelboden, Switzerland, announcing reliance on artificial snow. Dr. Friederike Otto, a climate scientist, emphasized that the record-breaking heat was made more likely by human-caused climate change, underscoring the urgent need for climate action. The unfolding climate crisis represents a significant challenge for traditional winter sports and raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of ski resorts and the broader environmental impact of artificial snow production.

Mount Merapi, located on the border of Yogyakarta and Central Java, Indonesia, is one of the most active and dangerous volcanoes in the world. Its name, translating to “Mountain of Fire,” is a fitting description of its relentless activity. The 2010 eruption of Mount Merapi is particularly notable for its severity and impact.

In late October 2010, Mount Merapi began an eruptive phase that would become its largest in over a century. The eruption was characterized by explosive events and pyroclastic flows—fast-moving hot gases and volcanic material that swept down the slopes at speeds exceeding 100 kilometers per hour. These flows devastated villages, farmlands, and forests in their path, leading to a significant humanitarian crisis.

The immediate response involved the evacuation of over 350,000 people from the surrounding areas, a massive operation given the densely populated regions around the volcano. Despite these efforts, the eruption resulted in over 350 fatalities, with many more injured or suffering from respiratory issues due to the ash. Thousands of homes were destroyed, and the region’s agriculture, a vital source of livelihood for many, was severely impacted.

The 2010 Merapi eruption served as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of disaster preparedness and response. It highlighted the challenges of living in close proximity to a highly active volcano and the need for ongoing research, monitoring, and community education to mitigate future risks.

In July 2023, Beijing, China, witnessed one of its most severe flood disasters in over a century, following the torrential rains unleashed by the remnants of Typhoon Doksuri. This natural calamity marked an unprecedented challenge for the capital, reporting the heaviest rainfall the city had seen in 140 years, with a staggering 744.8mm recorded over several days. The devastating impact of the floods was profound, leading to significant casualties and extensive damage.

The death toll from this catastrophe rose to 33, including five rescuers, while 18 individuals were reported missing. The relentless downpours caused widespread destruction, collapsing nearly 59,000 homes and damaging 150,000 more. Infrastructure was severely affected, with roads and over 100 bridges damaged, exacerbating the crisis and hampering rescue efforts. Moreover, the floods inundated more than 15,000 hectares of cropland, further straining the city’s resources and affecting its food supply.

The 2023 Beijing floods served as a grim reminder of the escalating threat posed by extreme weather events, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced disaster preparedness and resilient infrastructure. As climate patterns continue to evolve, the event highlighted the critical importance of adopting comprehensive measures to mitigate the impact of such disasters in the future.

Hurricane areas in South America are relatively uncommon compared to other regions such as North America and the Caribbean due to the continent’s geographical and climatic characteristics. However, when such events occur, they can have significant impacts due to the lack of preparation and infrastructure to deal with these rare phenomena.

One notable exception was when Hurricane Catarina, the first-ever recorded South Atlantic hurricane, made landfall in Brazil in March 2004. This unprecedented event caught the region by surprise, leading to widespread destruction in the southern state of Santa Catarina and parts of Rio Grande do Sul. With winds reaching up to 155 km/h (about 96 mph), it caused extensive damage to homes, infrastructure, and agriculture.

The introduction of Hurricane Catarina to the South American continent highlighted the potential for tropical cyclone formations in the South Atlantic, an area previously thought to be unsuitable for such phenomena due to its cooler sea temperatures and unfavorable wind shear conditions.

The casualties and damage from Hurricane Catarina were significant, with approximately 3 to 10 people reported dead, hundreds injured, and thousands displaced. The economic impact was also profound, with damage estimates ranging from $350 million to $1 billion, severely affecting the local economies and livelihoods. This event underscored the importance of preparedness and adaptation strategies for rare but potentially devastating natural disasters in South America.

Introduction

On March 21, 2024, Brussels, Belgium, witnessed a landmark event: the world’s first-ever Nuclear Energy Summit. This high-level gathering, co-chaired by the Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo and the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Dr. Rafael Mariano Grossi, brought together leaders from over 30 countries and the European Union (EU). China, United States, France, Japan as well as Pakistan also participated in the summit. The particular event marked a significant turning point in the global discourse on nuclear energy, to emphasize the importance of nuclear energy in lowering the consumption of fossil fuels, its potential role in dealing with climate change, achieving sustainable development goals, improving energy security, and accelerating economic development. This summit is followed by nuclear energy’s historic prominence at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP28) in December 2023. For the first time, nuclear energy was acknowledged as a viable tool in the fight against climate change. This historic recognition paved the way for the Brussels Summit, providing a platform for world leaders to translate intentions into concrete action plans. It will allow participating countries to discuss their perspectives on nuclear power’s critical role in achieving net zero emissions and develop national strategies to fully realize its potential.

Nuclear Energy Declaration

At the summit over 30 nations adopted a Nuclear Energy Declaration and committed to maximizing nuclear energy’s potential for clean energy, reduced emissions, and a sustainable future. This declaration signifies a global push for nuclear power as a key tool in tackling climate change and solidifying a unified effort to harnessing the power of nuclear energy for a cleaner future. The countries reiterated the importance of nuclear energy as a critical component of the global attempt to reduce greenhouse gases. Moreover, they made a strong commitment and pledged that “We are determined to do our utmost to fulfill this commitment through our active and direct engagement, in particular by enhancing cooperation with countries that opt to develop civil nuclear capacities in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a nationally determined manner, including for transitioning away from fossil fuels in energy systems, in a just, orderly, and equitable manner, accelerating action in this critical decade, so as to achieve net zero by the mid-21st century.”

The Role of IAEA in Nuclear Energy and Climate Change

There are concerns about safety, waste management, and proliferation hazards when it comes to nuclear energy. The summit recognized these issues and aimed to resolve them. Discussions about best practices and international cooperation can be supported by the IAEA, a major participant in promoting nuclear safety and security. Therefore, International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is positioned to play an important role in the nuclear energy landscape. The agency’s experience in safety standards, technical innovation, and nuclear security will be critical in assisting member states in establishing and implementing safe, efficient, and sustainable nuclear programs.

The IAEA launched Atoms4NetZero, an initiative to assist Member States in using nuclear energy to help them achieve net zero emissions, in response to the climate crisis. The Atoms4NetZero is for both nuclear operating and embarking countries that are interested in incorporating nuclear energy into their national energy mix in order to reach net zero targets. The developing countries will receive special consideration. The program offers Member States and stakeholders industry, financial institutions, and international organizations with technical expertise on the possibility of using nuclear energy to reduce the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere during the production of electricity and different sectors including transportation and industry. The Director General of IAEA at the summit said “Nuclear energy is an extraordinary asset whose full potential we need to untap if we are to keep climate change in check. The narrative that pits nuclear against wind and solar is wrong. It is time for the truth to get through, for leaders to pull the necessary levers and help make the global climate goals achievable.” He added, “the Nuclear Energy Summit must be a turning point for nuclear energy, calling for global investment across all economies. The IAEA, born from a vision of nuclear for peace and prosperity, is here to support this transition.”

Conclusion

The Nuclear Energy Summit signifies a renewed global commitment to leveraging nuclear energy as a key tool in tackling climate change and ensuring energy security. Leaders recognized that innovation is key to unlocking the full potential of nuclear energy and ensuring its long-term sustainability. However, there are still challenges to overcome such as regulatory hurdles as well as building new nuclear plants can be expensive and time-consuming. Additionally, ensuring the safe and secure management of nuclear waste remains a paramount concern. To translate commitments into concrete actions, all the participating countries need to develop robust policy frameworks that incentivize investment in new nuclear plants and streamline the regulatory process. Additionally, increased investment in research and development is also crucial to advance innovative technologies and solutions for climate change and ensure the long-term viability of nuclear energy.

Introduction

Pakistan, which is ranked as the fifth most vulnerable country to climate change on the Global Climate Risk Index, has numerous pressing environmental problems that have an impact on both its people and economy. Despite producing only 1% of global carbon emissions, Pakistan bears a disproportionate burden of climate change’s wrath. The monsoon, which is critical for the Pakistan’s agricultural and water security, is growing more irregular. Rising temperatures are affecting weather patterns, resulting in unpredictable cycles of heavy rains, severe floods, and long periods of drought. This is resulting in low crops yield, communities’ displacement, and negative economic impacts. According to a United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) report published in November 2023, climate change has raised surface temperatures, which has had a significant impact on traditional weather patterns, particularly monsoon rainfall.

Pakistan Floods 2022 and 2023

The impact of the climate crisis in Pakistan was brutally demonstrated by the irregular monsoon of 2022. Pakistan experienced unusually heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, over three times higher than the past 30-year average. Millions of people were impacted by the enormous devastation because of severe flooding and landslides that Pakistan has seen as a result of the monsoon rains. This flooding, which has been described as one of the worst in decades, damaged approximately 78,000 square kilometers of farmland, affected over 33 million people (roughly 15% of the country’s population) in 90 districts and caused almost eight million to be displaced. As of November 18, 2022, the Pakistan National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) announced that the toll amounted to over 1,700 confirmed deaths and over 12,800 injured. Moreover, around one million houses destroyed as a result of the calamity, and the death of over a million animals adds to the serious and widespread effects of the disaster. According to the Government of Pakistan’s Finance Division’s damage assessment report, the damage and loss caused by floods in 2022 estimated to exceed US$14.9 billion, US$15.2 billion in GDP loss, and US$16.3 billion in total rehabilitation costs. The sectors that experienced the most damage of floods were housing ($5.6 billion), agriculture, food, livestock, and fisheries ($3.7 billion), and transportation and communications ($3.3 billion).

The recovery of 2022 floods was slow, and the country was struggling when the monsoon season of 2023 made matters worse. Balochistan and some districts of KP suffered the most destruction from flash floods and severe monsoon rains in July 2023. The disaster had left 283 people injured and 196 people dead in all of the provinces as of August 5, 2023. As a result of the floods, the World Food Program reported that out of 20.6 million individuals in need of humanitarian aid, 14.6 million needed emergency food assistance.

Food Insecurity

In Pakistan, a large portion of the population lacks consistent access to enough food that is both nutritious and sufficient, making food insecurity a serious problem. Pakistan’s food insecurity is largely caused by climate change. According to estimates, climate change will contribute to an 8–10% decline in agricultural productivity until 2040. The country is extremely vulnerable to risks related to climate change, and the country’s changing weather patterns have a negative impact on water availability, natural resources, and agricultural productivity. This is especially true for crops like rice and wheat, which will decline by 15–18% and 6%, respectively. According to the World Bank’s 2021 Climate Risk Country Profile, Pakistan’s yields in numerous essential food and cash crops, including cotton, wheat, sugarcane, maize, and rice, are expected to drop over the next decade.

Climate change has caused irregular monsoon in Pakistan, which has altered rainfall patterns and hampered crop growth, resulting in lower yields and crop failures. Inconsistent rainfall also makes it difficult for farmers to organize their agricultural activities, which reduces overall agricultural production. This has greatly damaged the overall economy, and the 40% of Pakistan’s total labor force that works in agriculture which will probably decline dramatically in coming years.

Conclusion

Pakistan is dealing with a serious climate change crisis. Even with a low carbon footprint, the country is being forced to adjust to a fast changing environment to which it has barely contributed. Developed countries should provide international climate finance to help Pakistan with climate related challenges. Furthermore, to lessen the risks, Pakistan government must build its national capabilities through environmental considerations and integrating climate change into national development plans and objectives. Developing early flood warning systems, managing crops, and upgrading water management systems for efficient storage and distribution are all important steps to take. Pakistan must immediately adjust its infrastructure and activities to the new realities of climate change in order to avert future consequences.

The history of flooding in Gwadar, as for many coastal cities, intertwines closely with its geographical and climatic conditions. Gwadar, located on the southwestern coast of the Pakistani province of Balochistan, has experienced its share of natural challenges, including flooding, which has been exacerbated by its position along the Arabian Sea and its exposure to monsoon seasons. For much of its history, Gwadar was a small to medium-sized settlement with an economy largely based on artisanal fishing. The strategic value of its location was recognized in 1954 when it was identified as a suitable site for a deep-water port by the United States Geological Survey at the request of Pakistan. The construction on the first phase of Gwadar Port initiated in 2007 marks a significant point in its development history. However, until the launch of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in 2015, Gwadar’s potential to be a major deep-water port remained largely untapped, partly due to various challenges including security concerns and lack of investment Flooding in Pakistan, including regions like Balochistan where Gwadar is situated, has been a recurring challenge, impacting vast areas and causing significant economic and human losses. The 2022 flooding event, for instance, affected most of Pakistan, including Balochistan and Sindh provinces, leading to at least 1,500 deaths and affecting 16 million children. The economic impact was profound, particularly in the agriculture sector, with crop damage in Sindh alone amounting to approximately Rs297 billion Gwadar’s exposure to natural calamities like flooding underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment in infrastructure to mitigate these risks. This includes enhancing the city’s resilience through improved drainage systems, flood barriers, and early warning systems. Additionally, as a critical node in the CPEC initiative, ensuring Gwadar’s resilience to flooding and other natural disasters is vital for the economic stability and security of the region. The strategic importance of Gwadar in the broader context of CPEC cannot be overstated, with significant investments aimed at transforming it into a major deep-water port that links northern Pakistan and western China to the Arabian Sea.

1. Cyclones and Storm Surges: The Arabian Sea is prone to cyclones, particularly during the monsoon season from June to September. These cyclones can cause storm surges that lead to coastal flooding in Gwadar and surrounding areas.
2. Heavy Monsoon Rains: The monsoon season can bring heavy rains to the region, overwhelming the drainage systems and causing urban and flash floods.
3. Inadequate Drainage Systems: Gwadar’s rapid urbanization without proper planning for drainage infrastructure contributes to the flooding problem. The existing drainage systems are often inadequate to handle the runoff from heavy rains, leading to waterlogging and flooding in many areas.
4. Geographical Features: The topography of the area, including its coastal location and the surrounding hilly terrain, also contributes to the risk of flooding.

Relief Operations

In response to flooding, Pakistan’s national and provincial disaster management authorities, along with local government bodies, NGOs, and international organizations, have conducted relief operations in Gwadar. These operations typically include:

• Evacuation of residents from high-risk areas before or during the flooding.
• Provision of emergency shelters, food, clean water, and medical aid to the affected populations.
• Restoration of essential services such as electricity, water supply, and communication networks.
• Rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and drainage systems, to restore normalcy.

Gwadar recently faced significant flooding due to record-breaking rainfall, prompting the district administration to declare a state of emergency. This unusual weather pattern for the winter season was highlighted by the Chief Meteorologist, emphasizing that Gwadar received an unprecedented amount of rain during these months In response to the calamity, Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif unveiled a comprehensive relief package during his visit to the affected areas. The package includes financial compensation for the affected families: Rs2 million for families who lost loved ones, Rs500,000 for the injured, Rs750,000 for residents whose homes have been completely demolished, and Rs350,000 for households with partially damaged properties. Additionally, 7,000 ration bags are being distributed daily among the displaced people. The Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s commitment to aiding the victims, emphasizing that the relief is a duty, not a favor. The relief efforts include the distribution of cheques and relief goods, such as food items, blankets, and water coolers, to the affected residents The Pakistan Navy has also played a crucial role in relief operations, deploying helicopters to deliver ration bags, clean drinking water, and food items to the flood-affected villages of Pishukan and Kappar. Navy personnel have been actively involved in distributing rations and relief goods in Gwadar city and other affected areas. They have also undertaken de-flooding operations in various localities to clear flood water These recent floods in Gwadar, exacerbated by record rainfall, have prompted significant relief and rehabilitation efforts from both the government and the military, highlighting the challenges and the responsive measures undertaken to mitigate the impact on the affected population.

Upgrade Drainage Infrastructure: Enhance the city’s drainage system to efficiently manage heavy rainfall. This includes expanding drainage capacity, clearing blockages regularly, and installing advanced water management systems.
Flood Barriers and Sea Walls: Construct flood barriers and sea walls along vulnerable coastal areas to protect against storm surges and high tides.
Flood-Resilient Urban Planning: Implement urban planning practices that take into account flood risks. This could involve zoning laws that restrict construction in flood-prone areas and promoting green spaces that absorb rainwater.
Early Warning Systems and Preparedness Plans: Develop and implement advanced early warning systems to alert residents of incoming floods. Establish comprehensive emergency response plans and conduct regular community drills.
Community Awareness and Education: Increase community awareness about flood risks and safety measures through education campaigns. Encourage participation in preparedness activities.
Ecosystem Restoration and Conservation: Restore and conserve mangroves and other natural barriers along the coast. These ecosystems act as natural defenses against floods and erosion.
Rainwater Harvesting and Storage: Promote rainwater harvesting and the construction of water storage facilities to reduce runoff and utilize rainwater for non-potable uses.
Resilient Infrastructure: Ensure that new infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and public buildings, are designed to withstand flood conditions.
Insurance and Financial Instruments: Encourage the uptake of insurance and other financial instruments that can help mitigate the financial impact of floods on businesses and households.
International Cooperation and Assistance: Seek technical and financial assistance from international organizations experienced in flood management and urban resilience.
Research and Data Collection: Conduct research and data collection on flood patterns, climate change impacts, and effective flood management strategies. Use this data to inform policy and planning.
Strengthen Governance and Coordination: Strengthen the coordination among national, provincial, and local governments in managing flood risks and responses. Ensure that there are clear roles, responsibilities, and accountability.
These recommendations require collaboration between government authorities, the private sector, non-governmental organizations, and the local communities to effectively reduce the risk and impact of flooding in Gwadar. Implementing these measures can also enhance the city’s resilience to future climate-related challenges.

Conclusion

The recurring flood events in Gwadar call for comprehensive planning and investment in infrastructure to mitigate these risks effectively. Recommendations for combating flooding in Gwadar encompass a broad spectrum of strategies, including upgrading drainage infrastructure, constructing flood barriers and sea walls, implementing flood-resilient urban planning, and establishing early warning systems. Moreover, community awareness, ecosystem restoration, rainwater harvesting, resilient infrastructure development, and strengthened governance and coordination are essential to enhancing the city’s resilience against flooding. Ensuring Gwadar’s preparedness and resilience is not only vital for its inhabitants but also crucial for the economic stability and security of the region, given its strategic role in CPEC. Thus, Gwadar’s journey from a quaint fishing town to a focal point of international trade under CPEC, juxtaposed with its vulnerability to flooding, highlights the pressing need for integrated and sustainable solutions. These measures are imperative for safeguarding the city’s developmental gains, protecting its communities, and securing its position as a linchpin in regional trade and economic growth.

Introduction

The call for a global shift towards a green economy has gained momentum in recent years, highlighting the unsustainable trajectory of our current development model. According to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP), the green economy is defined as low-carbon, resource efficient and socially inclusive. In a green economy, growth in employment and income are driven by public and private investment into such economic activities, infrastructure and assets that allow reduced carbon emissions and pollution, enhanced energy and resource efficiency, and prevention of the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services. The current economic model of countries heavily relies on fossil fuels and unsustainable resource extraction which poses an existential threat to planet Earth. However, green transition holds particular significance for developing countries, faced with the dual challenge of economic growth and environmental protection. Embracing a green economy is not just an option, but a necessity for sustainable development.

Importance of Green Economy for Developing Nations

Developing countries bear disproportionate consequences of environmental degradation on their economies, despite contributing less to climate change. These countries are often vulnerable to climate change impacts like rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and resource scarcity, threatening food security, infrastructure, and overall development. Reliance on resource-intensive industries causes economic dependence and vulnerability to market fluctuations. Additionally, rich natural resources can be found in many developing countries. But with little future benefit, the extractive methods that are being used will eventually result in depletion of these resources. Using a green approach ensures that resources are managed sustainably, promote economic growth and benefit future generations.

Opportunities

Transitioning to a green economy presents a unique opportunity for developing nations to break the traditional cycle. Embracing renewable energy sources like solar and wind power can enhance energy security, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and create new jobs in the clean energy sector. Investing in sustainable agriculture practices can boost food security, protect biodiversity, and adapt to changing climate conditions. Overall, adopting the green economy is not only an environmental requirement but a strategic measure for developing nations to attain sustainable development, economic success, and social well-being.

Challenges and the Need for Support

Despite the benefits, the green transition poses significant challenges for developing countries. Limited financial resources, lack of technological infrastructure, and inadequate institutional capacity can hinder green investments and implementation. Moreover, ensuring a just transition that protects vulnerable communities and workers affected by this shift is crucial.
Green economy has the potential to improve adaptability and resilience through international support and technology transfer. With this, developing countries will be able to steer toward a more promising future by developing climate-smart infrastructure and technologies that will assist in managing extreme weather events, sea level rise, and water scarcity. Additionally, this will enable developing countries to protect livelihoods and guarantee long-term economic prosperity by preserving ecosystems and practicing sustainable resource management.

International Collaboration and Shared Responsibility

Developed countries have an important role to play in supporting developing countries in their green transition. The transition to a green economy presents numerous challenges for developing countries, the most significant of which are fiscal limits. Large upfront investments are required for the deployment of green technologies and infrastructure. Developed countries must step forward swiftly and provide financial support, particularly loans with favorable terms and conditions. Collaborative efforts on research and development in clean technologies can accelerate progress and ensure affordability. Trade agreements promoting sustainable practices and fair market access for green products can further incentivize the transition.

Furthermore, it is important that governments of developing countries set ambitious goals, formulate supportive policies and work efficiently to attract green investments from international and regional stakeholder to accelerate progress. Private sector can play a significant role in developing and deploying green technologies, investing in sustainable practices, and promoting responsible consumption. Civil society should also contribute by raising awareness, fostering community engagement, and holding governments and businesses accountable.

Conclusion

For developing countries, this transition offers a path towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, building resilience, and creating a future where prosperity and environmental sustainability go hand in hand. By embracing this opportunity with international support and collaboration, developing countries can collectively pave the way for a more just, equitable, and sustainable future for all nations.

Air pollution in Pakistan and India recorded at critical levels during the month of November 2023, with many cities in both countries experiencing hazardous air quality due to smog. In Pakistan and India, smog is a serious environmental concern which is caused by the combination of number of factors. The main contributors to air pollution include vehicle emissions, industrial emissions, and dust. Burning crops is a major factor in this situation, in order to prepare the land for the next crop, farmers in Pakistan and India frequently burn crop leftovers after harvest. This causes a significant emission of smoke and particle matter into the atmosphere. The problem is exacerbated in the winter months, when cooler temperatures trap pollutants closer to the ground.

According to the World Air Quality Index, Lahore, Pakistan is currently the most polluted city in the world. Other major cities in Pakistan are also experiencing severe air pollution. The Punjab government in Pakistan declared a smog emergency and closed schools and markets for four days in an effort to reduce air pollution. The government has also banned crop burning and ordered factories to reduce their emissions. However, air quality levels in Lahore and other major cities in Punjab remain at hazardous levels.

Governments in both Pakistan and India are taking steps to address the problem of air pollution. NASA satellite images reveal smog blanketing northern India, with Delhi at epicenter of looming air pollution crisis. The Delhi government ordered the closure of schools and restricted the use of private vehicles for a week in an effort to reduce air pollution. In addition, the government banned construction activities and ordered industries to reduce emissions. The consequences of this concerning phenomenon go beyond Delhi, as a number of cities in North India are facing declining air quality, raising the possibility of a more serious environmental crisis.

The severe air pollution in both the countries is having a significant impact on environment and human beings. The air pollution situation in Pakistan and India is a serious public health concern. Exposure to air pollution can cause respiratory problems, heart disease, cancer, and other health problems. It can also reduce visibility on roads leading to accidents. Both governments need to take more aggressive action to reduce emissions and improve air quality by reducing vehicle emissions, financing public transportation, and supporting renewable energy sources.

On September 4-6, 2023, Nairobi, Kenya hosted the Africa Climate Summit, it coincided with Africa Climate Week. The Africa Climate Summit (ACS) brought international leaders, intergovernmental organizations, Regional Economic Communities, UN agencies, the private sector, civil society organizations, local communities, farmer organizations, children, youth, women, and academia to discuss Africa’s climate change challenges and develop sustainable solutions. The theme of the Africa Climate Summit 2023 was “Driving Green Growth and Climate Finance Solutions for Africa and the World.” The summit intended to accelerate climate action in Africa and mobilize the financial resources required to promote a just and equitable transition to a low-carbon, climate-resilient future. Also, to consider ways to cut greenhouse gas emissions while also preparing for the growing effects of the climate catastrophe. On the last day of an important climate summit, African political and corporate leaders adopted a declaration to address climate concerns in Africa.

“Africa’s youth is precisely the attribute that has inspired African leaders to imagine a future where Africa steps on to the stage as an economic and industrial power, an effective and positive actor in the global arena,” said Kenyan President William Ruto. He said that the continent is ideally situated to take the lead in combating climate change, according to a number of factors. Ruto added, “Africa is the continent with 60% of the continent’s renewable energy assets, including solar, wind, geothermal and hydropower.” The President of the African Development Bank, Adesina, said “The Africa Climate Summit will shape the future pathway of Africa’s development” and also praised Ruto for taking the initiative for organizing a conference.

The significance of climate justice for Africa was also emphasized at the conference. Despite making very little contribution to the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, African nations are disproportionately impacted by the climate problem. The leaders of Africa urged that developed countries take immediate action to cut carbon emissions and recommended a new financial framework to restructure Africa’s debt and unleash funds for climate change. African leaders present at the inaugural Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, emphasized the necessity of decarbonizing the global economy for equity and shared prosperity in a call to action. In order for the continent to move to low carbon development and make a contribution to global decarbonization, they asked for investment to support the sustainable use of Africa’s natural resources. As a means of increasing climate funding and motivating nations to reduce emissions, the implementation of a worldwide carbon tax system is required

From the United States, John Kerry, the special Presidential Envoy for climate change, as well as representatives from the Department of Energy, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) attended the Africa Climate Summit. At the Summit, the United States announced significant investments. According to the United States Department of State, U.S. intends to provide $30 million to initiatives under President’s Emergency Plan for Adaptation and Resilience (PREPARE) in Africa. An additional total of $45 million will be given to the Africa Adaptation Initiative (AAI) Food Security Accelerator, which will accelerate and scale up private sector investments in climate resilient food security in Africa. The United States has also made a commitment to mobilize investments in African climate solutions, ecosystem conservation, and urban resilience. Through DFC and USAID initiatives, more than $200 million in funding will be provided to increase access to renewable energy in Africa.

Global leaders utilized the Climate Summit to announce funding commitments for sustainable development and green growth. A wide spectrum of stakeholders was present at the conference to debate and make pledges regarding climate action in Africa. Now is the moment to put words into action. Aside from increasing political will for climate action, the Africa Climate Summit 2023 has the ability to increase awareness of the continent’s climate action. There is a hope that the process of cutting greenhouse gas emissions will accelerate to tackle the effects of climate change, and creating a future for Africa and the world that is more climate resilient.