Climate Change Could Cost Pakistan $1.2 Trillion by 2050: British Envoy

Pakistan could lose up to $1.2 trillion by 2050 due to climate change if urgent measures are not taken, according to Martin Dawson, the British Deputy Head of Mission. Speaking at the ’60th Wildlife Photographer of the Year’ exhibition at the British Council in Karachi, he stressed the importance of climate funding to help mitigate the adverse effects of climate change.

He also announced a new UK Climate Finance program that intends to help 500 million people use climate-friendly technologies and practices. Up till now, the UK has already assisted over 1.5 million people in Pakistan to become better prepared for extreme weather through climate-related projects.

This is the first time events like the Wildlife Photographer of the Year are being held in Pakistan. Following Karachi, a similar show will also take place in Lahore. This exhibition is supported by the Natural History Museum in London. This photo exhibition mainly features 100 wildlife photos chosen for their originality and ethical storytelling. It is considered the world’s longest-running and most respected competition of its kind, receiving 60,000 entries in its 60th year.

The UK is helping climate-vulnerable communities in Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa improve their water system, Dawson Said. He also warned that Pakistan is losing too many species, such as the snow leopard and hog deer, because of habitat loss, illegal trade and climate change. He also noted that Karachi alone lost 200 hectares of mangroves between 2010 and 2022. 

Dawson said, “This competition and these photographs are reminders of the world’s beauty and that we must protect it. That’s a mission close to the UK’s heart”