A SOCIO LEGAL STUDY OF THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE: A CASE STUDY OF PAKISTAN

Abstract

Scientists recognize climate change as the inevitable natural occurrence which transcends mythological status. Scientific records demonstrate that South Asia faces a new significant environmental challenge known as climate change which affects Pakistan to a similar degree. This research article investigates the dangers and environmental impacts which climate change brings to South Asia with specific focus on Pakistan. The research investigates environmental reaction, social and economic aspects of recent flooding to understand why the region faces higher climate change responsibility and analyze present-day management solutions for environmental protection. Through analysis this research aims to detect both research-based and policy-related gaps that mainly exist in environmental funding and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The recent disastrous flooding happened in July and September 2022 primarily because of present weather patterns involving glacial degeneration and glacier lake outburst floods (GLOFs) and intense monsoon rain amounts. The population of Pakistan experiences significant climate change effects while Pakistan generates only minimal global greenhouse gas emissions volume. The situation continues to decline as a result of fast industrial development and fossil fuels and plastic materials and tree-cutting practices. The study proves that reservoir management combined with dam development presents dual advantages that both protect ecosystems along with lowering flood frequency. The text emphasizes the necessity to add climate policies within socio-economic and political structures that lead to sustainable environmental results. A comprehensive coordinated approach to climate agreements in South Asia should be developed according to this research. States should take climate change prevention measures along with supporting sustainable development practices and creative adaptations while establishing international partnerships to create a strong sustainable world. The research shows that funding climate and water research at higher levels should be increased simultaneously with developing innovative flood risk mitigation approaches by integrating knowledge from various research fields. Alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals and solutions targeting climate injustice at its root cause will enhance political strategies and their outcome results.