Pakistan is at the frontline of the climate crisis. From devastating floods to scorching heatwaves, climate change is no longer a distant concern—it is here, reshaping lives. But does everyone feel the urgency? Who is leading the fight, and who remains indifferent?
As climate change accelerates, Pakistanis have responded in different ways. Some are sounding the alarm and taking action, while others remain skeptical or constrained by economic struggles. A recent study divides Pakistanis into five distinct groups based on their attitudes and actions toward climate change.
The question isn’t just who cares—but who is willing to act?
1. The Activists – Leading the Fight for Climate Action (12%)
Lahore-based entrepreneur Sana Ahmad refuses to buy products from companies with poor environmental policies. “It’s a small sacrifice, but if enough of us do it, companies will listen,” she says.
In cities across Pakistan, a small but determined group is championing the climate fight. These activists believe in bold, systemic change and demand action from governments, corporations, and individuals.
Who are they?
- Educated professionals, mostly women, aged 36-45.
- Willing to pay extra for sustainable products and services.
- Actively boycott brands that harm the environment.
What drives them?
They don’t just talk; they act. From participating in protests to planting trees and advocating for clean energy, they push for policies that promote environmental sustainability.
“Activists are the driving force behind Pakistan’s environmental movement. Their leadership has amplified calls for renewable energy, clean air, and sustainable urban planning.”
Why they matter:
These individuals are setting the agenda for climate conversations in Pakistan. They influence government policies, corporate decisions, and social attitudes toward sustainability.
2. The Pragmatists – Practical Problem-Solvers (22%)
Zainab, a schoolteacher in Karachi, doesn’t consider herself an activist, but she does what she can. She brings reusable bags to the market, teaches her students about recycling, and has switched to solar energy where possible. “I do what’s within my reach,” she says.
Unlike activists, pragmatists don’t seek radical change but focus on everyday solutions. They believe in sustainability but in a way, that’s realistic and manageable.
Who are they?
- Educated, middle-class professionals in their 30s and 40s.
- Prioritize energy-efficient appliances, recycling, and water conservation.
- Believe in small but meaningful actions rather than large-scale activism.
How do they act?
They integrate sustainability into their daily lives—using LED bulbs, reducing waste, and opting for public transport when possible.
“They aren’t climate warriors, but they understand that small, cumulative actions can make a difference.”
Why they matter:
If more people followed their lead, Pakistan could significantly reduce waste, pollution, and energy consumption.
3. The Conflicted Contributors – Aware but Struggling (25%)
Junaid, a construction worker in Peshawar, knows climate change is real. He saw his home flood twice. But when asked why he doesn’t switch to eco-friendly products, he sighs, “They’re expensive. I can barely afford my electricity bill.”
This group understands the urgency of climate change but is economically constrained. They want to contribute but struggle to afford sustainable choices.
Who are they?
- Predominantly men aged 26-35, often from working-class backgrounds.
- Want to make changes but lack financial resources.
- Support eco-friendly policies if they don’t increase living costs.
Why they matter:
They represent Pakistan’s largest economic demographic. If given financial incentives—like subsidies for solar power, tax breaks for energy efficiency, and affordable eco-friendly products—they could drive national change.
4. The Busy Bystanders – Prioritizing Profit Over Planet (13%)
For Imran, a Karachi-based textile factory owner, the priority is profit. “Why should I worry about climate change when I have to keep my business running?” he says.
This group acknowledges climate change but sees it as a secondary issue—one that shouldn’t interfere with economic growth.
Who are they?
- Business owners, landlords, and older professionals (ages 45-55).
- Believe climate action is not their responsibility.
- Support sustainability only if it benefits them financially.
What’s holding them back?
For them, climate action is a luxury, not a necessity. If green policies threaten their profits, they oppose them.
Why they matter:
If climate-friendly policies and green investments are shown to boost economic growth, this group could be persuaded to support sustainability efforts.
5. The Designated Denialists – The Climate Skeptics (28%)
“It’s all exaggerated,” says Shabbir, a shopkeeper in Faisalabad. “The government just uses climate change as an excuse to raise prices.”
This group either denies climate change entirely or believes it’s not their concern. They are the most difficult to engage.
Who are they?
- Predominantly men, skilled laborers, and rural residents.
- View climate change as overhyped or a government conspiracy.
- Believe it is not their problem to solve.
Why they matter:
They represent the largest segment (28%) and are often the hardest to convince. Reaching them requires reframing the conversation—focusing on immediate, tangible benefits like lower electricity costs, better health, and cleaner air.
The Bigger Picture: Systemic Failures & The Way Forward
Despite growing awareness, Pakistan’s climate policies remain reactive rather than proactive. Reports from the Ministry of Climate Change highlight vulnerabilities, yet enforcement of green policies is weak.
- Businesses continue to operate without strict environmental regulations.
- Climate education is missing from school curriculums.
- Government response is largely focused on crisis management rather than prevention.
How Can Change Happen?
✔ Empower Activists with platforms to amplify their message.
✔ Provide subsidies for energy-efficient alternatives to support Conflicted Contributors.
✔ Make green policies profitable for Busy Bystanders.
✔ Reframe the climate conversation for Denialists—focus on economic and health benefits.
A Climate Emergency—But Who Will Lead?
Pakistan cannot afford to wait. The floods, heatwaves, and water shortages are not distant warnings—they are here.
The real question is not just who cares about climate change, but who will act?
Pakistan's future depends on whether these different groups can be engaged, empowered, and united in the fight against climate change.
Because in the end, climate resilience is not an option—it is a necessity.
