Cross-Border Pollution Pakistan Requires Regional Cooperation, Says Environmental Expert
An environmental expert has urged South Asian countries to adopt a coordinated regional strategy to combat cross-border pollution, warning that Pakistan cannot effectively tackle worsening smog, water shortages, and climate-related disasters through domestic measures alone.
Speaking to a state-owned television channel, Dr. Zainab Naeem stressed that environmental challenges affecting Pakistan demand sustained diplomatic engagement, stronger public awareness, and increased private-sector participation to build long-term climate resilience.
Pakistan Faces Growing Climate Risks
According to Dr. Naeem, Pakistan remains one of the countries most vulnerable to climate change and its associated disasters. She said trans-boundary smog and poor water management continue to pose serious environmental and public health challenges.
She noted that seasonal crop residue burning across the border contributes to declining air quality in Pakistan. Combined with rising temperatures and prolonged heatwaves, these factors have intensified environmental pressures across the region.
Dr. Naeem emphasized that environmental degradation is not confined by national borders and therefore requires practical cooperation among neighboring countries.
Urgent Action Needed on Environmental Policies
The environmental expert called for the swift implementation of effective environmental policies, saying governments must prioritize long-term ecological resilience over short-term considerations.
She argued that stronger environmental governance would not only protect public health but also strengthen economic stability by reducing the long-term costs associated with climate-related disasters.
According to Dr. Naeem, policymakers should treat environmental protection as a national and regional priority rather than a political issue.
Public Awareness Plays a Key Role
Dr. Naeem also highlighted the importance of expanding climate awareness campaigns across society.
She said citizens, government institutions, and policymakers must recognize that environmental protection is a shared responsibility. Greater public understanding of climate challenges can encourage sustainable practices and support stronger environmental policies.
She added that increasing awareness is essential for promoting long-term behavioral change and strengthening national resilience against climate risks.
Government Initiatives Acknowledged
Dr. Naeem acknowledged that the Government of Pakistan, under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the Punjab government led by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif have introduced various environmental policies and mitigation measures.
She said these initiatives aim to address pollution and climate-related challenges while considering the country’s fiscal constraints.
However, she maintained that domestic efforts alone cannot fully resolve environmental issues that originate beyond Pakistan’s borders.
Call for a Permanent Regional Climate Mechanism
To strengthen regional collaboration, Dr. Naeem proposed establishing a permanent climate-focused diplomatic mechanism for South Asia.
She said such a platform would enable neighboring countries to maintain continuous dialogue on shared environmental concerns, exchange scientific data, and coordinate responses to cross-border pollution, water management, and climate adaptation.
The expert also stressed the need for greater private-sector investment alongside effective regulatory enforcement. She said businesses can play a significant role in reducing pollution and promoting sustainable development if supported by clear environmental regulations.
Dr. Naeem concluded that lasting environmental progress will depend on collective action among regional stakeholders, emphasizing that cooperation is essential to safeguard public health, protect natural resources, and ensure sustainable economic development across South Asia.