Islamabad, July 26, 2023 (PPI-OT): IRS (The Institute for Regional Studies), Islamabad organized a roundtable discussion on one the topic of Adaptation and Climate security. Dr. Zainab represented CCRD at the event. The Panel consisted of researchers, practitioners, and policy advisors. Several issues related to Pakistan’s climate crisis came under discussion including Pakistan’s climate policy, climate diplomacy and financing, data production and management and multi-level adaptation and mitigation strategies.
The session began with the keynote speech of Mr. Micheal Dowd, who is an Eco-theologist. Dowd gave a comprehensive summary of climate trajectory of the world where previous civilizations overshot the planetary boundaries and eventually were doomed. Dr. Farooq Iqbal from COMSATS University, Islamabad talked about extreme flood events in Pakistan and role of Meteorology department in producing data. He explained that the progression in real time data production through the research efforts is a game changer for Pakistan as it will not only play key role in effective management but also effective planning and strategizing.
Dr. Kanwar Jawad specifically focused on the adaptation practices of Pakistan and discussed the Food-Energy-water nexus, environmental security, and governance in the national context. He also elaborated on the issue of national security and said that amid climate crisis, food and water security can easily become a national security concern.
The discussants shed light on the importance of implementation of strategies and policies. The panel unanimously agreed that Pakistan, as a vulnerable country, has produced several comprehensive and remarkable policies and acts that are not only well researched but also have huge potential to bring positive change. Moreover, the role of different federal and provincial departments and agencies was also discussed with emphasis on better communication and resource mobilization to ensure the trickle-down effect of policies under 18th amendment.
The roundtable discussion ended with a compilation of crowdsourced videoclips of recent floods around the world. The video reinforced the panel’s points of concern that we, as people must come out of denial and act together as One entity to safeguard human race
For more information, contact:
COMSATS University Islamabad
Park Road, Tarlai Kalan, Islamabad, Pakistan
Tel: +92-51-9247000,
Website: http://ww2.comsats.edu.pk