Global warming, the long-term increase in the average temperature of the Earth’s climate system, is primarily caused by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas, which releases large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. These gases trap heat from the sun, resulting in rising temperatures and changes in weather patterns, rising sea levels, and melting of ice caps and glaciers. It also leads to more frequent and severe heat waves, hurricanes, droughts, and forest fires. The effects of global warming are a major threat to the planet’s ecosystems and human societies.
A Visit to Germany
During a recent business trip to Germany, I had the opportunity to visit various cities and was impressed by the unusual blooming of flowers in a park in Cologne. I also watched a DW documentary about how the unusually mild temperatures have left many European ski slopes snowless, negatively impacting the tourist trade. Pakistan, particularly Gilgit-Baltistan, is facing similar issues as seen in Europe, such as flash floods and GLOFs
Pakistan, a country with diverse landscapes, is facing severe environmental issues, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan. The region has witnessed flash floods and GLOFs (Glacial Lake Outburst Floods) in recent summers, which have caused significant damage to the infrastructure and communities living there. These events are a clear indication of the impact of climate change on the region and the need for immediate action to address the environmental challenges.
NGOs and government organizations in Gilgit-Baltistan have been working tirelessly to educate the public about these issues and to mitigate the risks associated with them. Recently, the Gilgit Baltistan government has initiated a campaign to reduce the use of plastic bags, which is a positive step towards addressing environmental issues.
While in Germany, I observed how people respond and act on their shopping habits. I have noticed that when people go to buy groceries, they carry their own bags, and there are separate dustbins outside each building for different types of waste, such as paper, glass, bio, and plastic. This is a smart step that should be implemented in Pakistan as well. Segregating waste at the source and providing separate dustbins makes it easier for sanitation workers to perform their job and also makes it easier to start the recycling process.
In Pakistan, especially in Gilgit-Baltistan, we need to initiate similar smart steps to address the environmental challenges. We need to educate the public about the importance of recycling and the benefits of segregating waste at the source. This will not only make the job of sanitation workers easier and more efficient, but it will also help to reduce the environmental impact of waste disposal.
Furthermore, it is crucial for NGOs and government organizations to work closely together to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices. This includes campaigns to reduce plastic bag usage, as well as encouraging people to recycle and segregate waste.
Human migration & Warning
Climate change affects not only the environment but also human society. One of the most significant impacts is human migration. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and severe droughts can displace people from their homes, causing them to migrate to safer regions. Climate can also force people to flee their homes. It is essential to address these issues through public awareness and education and by introducing a global warming syllabus in schools and colleges, as well as emphasizing the importance of recycling and sustainable practices. By working together, we can mitigate the effects of climate change and prevent human migration caused by global warming.
Subsidized LPG Gas to Gilgit Baltistan
To address the problem of climate change in Gilgit Baltistan, the local government should take steps to introduce subsidized LPG gas as an alternative to wood-burning for heating and cooking. This would help reduce carbon emissions and deforestation in the region. During the winter, many residents of Gilgit Baltistan rely on wood-burning for heating and cooking, resulting in a large number of trees being cut down. By making LPG gas more affordable and accessible, the government can encourage people to switch to this cleaner and more efficient energy source. The government should work with the federal government and international climate change agencies such as the UN to provide subsidies and support for the distribution and use of LPG gas in the region.
Societal Action towards Protecting the Environment
In Germany, there is a growing societal action toward protecting the environment, as evidenced by recent protests against the expansion of a highway that would involve cutting down trees. Environmentalists argue that the expansion is unnecessary, as the highway does not have heavy traffic.
Additionally, activists in Koln have been fighting against coal mining in the region for the past five years, even building tree houses to prevent the cutting down of trees. These actions demonstrate the importance of having similar societal norms in Pakistan, particularly in Gilgit Baltistan, where there is a lack of concern for tree plantations and coal projects. As a society, we must take steps to protect the environment and promote sustainable growth.
