THE increasing concentration of greenhouse gases is warming the earth’s atmosphere and the phenomenon is known as climate change. The main factors contributing to the global climate change include polluted emissions by extreme burning of fossil fuels.

Pakistan contributes a small amount of overall greenhouse gas emissions, however it remains strictly impact by the negative effects of climate change. Pakistan, in particular, is estimated to have raised carbon emissions from 76m tons in 1994 to 200m tons in 2008. It is estimated that CO2 emissions, with an average increase of 6.7pc annually, will produce up to 484m tons by 2020.

The transport sector is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with about 18m tons in 1994. The sector will be dependable for the emission of 29m ton carbon dioxide by 2020. While Pakistan is not expected to be a major player in global warming, its energy-based emissions are a major source of pollution.

The major focus should be on the measures which can be taken to cope with the climate change. There should be increased access to information concerning this global issue. Technological responses should be improved along with energy efficiency practices by changes in lifestyles and businesses.

Rabail Gandahi

Hyderabad

Published in Dawn, March 23rd, 2016