Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Climate Change poses critical and significant challenges to Pakistan's ecosystems,

particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Province, but they can be addressed through bold

and creative climate actions. Climate Change-related disasters such as riverine floods, storm

water, glacier bursting, heat strokes, droughts and other vector-borne diseases are expected

to become more common in the coming decades, according to scientific evidence.

Following the 18th Constitutional Amendment, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was the first province to

develop a Provincial Climate Change Policy that was consistent with the updated National

Climate Change Policy (2021). The Policy emphasizes the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

vulnerability to Climate Change and how to take protective measures such as adaptation and

mitigation in relevant sectors of the economy. It focuses on the effects of Climate Change on

the province's natural economy and emphasizes the need for the province to adapt and

mitigate the effects of Climate Change. It also focuses on Climate Change awareness in the

province.

The adaptation approach to Climate Change seeks to reduce the vulnerability of natural and

human systems or to capitalize on anticipated changes in climatic conditions, whereas

mitigation seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through technological advancement or

by reducing activities that generate greenhouse gases. A salient feature of the Policy is the

specific recommendations and strategies for the sectors where adaptation and Mitigation is

required.

Governance, planning, risk management, resources, communication and monitoring are all

critical to the successful implementation of the provincial Climate Change Policy. Once

implemented, it will open new avenues and attract the international community, such as United

Nations Agencies and the Global Environment Facility (GEF), to invest in adaptation and

mitigation sectors in the future, more likely allowing the KP Province to achieve sustainable

development and create resilience against natural disasters, thereby securing the province’s

fragile economy in the coming challenging environment.

MESSAGE

Climate Change poses a greater security threat to Pakistan

because it has the potential to affect temperatures, environment,

economy, and the country's future policies. There is mounting

evidence that the effects of climate change on the systems that

sustain people and other species are occurring sooner than

expected.

The Govt. of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has formulated the first Provincial Climate Change Policy

in 2017, realizing that the economy of the province is in grave danger as a result of climate

change impacts and is vulnerable due to its geographical spread. The government is very

committed to implement the policy in letter and spirit.

Due to merger of newly merged districts into the province, revision of National Climate

Change Policy 2021 and to fulfill the commitments of updated Nationally Determined

Contributions 2021, the Govt. of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa felt it imperative to update the

previous Climate Change Policy into KP Climate Change Policy 2022. The revised policy

aims to outline the provincial government commitments to combat climate change scenarios

through mitigation and adaptation measures.

The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change policy provides a roadmap through a

comprehensive Climate Change Action Plan which aims to reduce the devastating effects

of the nature induced calamities in the province through consolidated efforts of all provincial

departments. It is further aimed to link with a sustainable infrastructure like strengthening

and reorientation of investment strategies and to avail the significant opportunities of low-

carbon, climate-resilient infrastructure; transforming finance to enable and drive change;

and phasing out fossil fuel consumption contributing to global agenda on UNFCCC.

MAHMOOD KHAN

Chief Minister

Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

FOREWORD

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, is one of Pakistan's most sensitive

provinces when it comes to the adverse effects of Climate Change.

The Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa began responding

proactively to the Climate Change implications by updating the

Provincial Climate Change Policy 2022 and formulation of

Provincial Climate Change Action Plan 2022 simultaneously for the

very first time.

This preemptive strategy shows the seriousness of the Govt of KP towards mitigating the

effects of climate change.

In order to provide recommendations and a way forward on Climate Change in the Province,

the Forestry, Environment & Wildlife Department (FE&WD) established a Climate Change

Cell in Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) which further keeps liaison with the Federal

Govt on Climate Change Agenda.

The Provincial Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2022 are consistent with the updated

National Climate Change Policy 2021. The policy also gives a roadmap to cope with the

health hazards caused by nature and human induced calamities.

For effective implementation of policy and action plan, the roles and responsibilities of

provincial climate change implementation committee have been emphasized in the policy

to make the strategy a success.

SYED MUHAMMAD ISHTIAQ URMAR

PROVINCIAL MINISTER FOR

Environment Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

MESSAGE

Following the 18th Constitutional Amendment and the mounting

signs of Climate Change in the province, the Environmental

Protection Agency (EPA) took the initiative and established a

"Climate Change Cell" mandated to interact with all other

government agencies and departments to incorporate climate

change scenarios into their respective policies, strategies, and

actions, as well as to mitigate the adverse effects of Climate

Change.

The first step in this regard was to formulate a provincial Climate Change policy in 2017 and

now it has been updated in 2022. For its effective implementation, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

government formulated the Provincial Climate Change Action Plan 2022 which is consistent

with the National Climate Change Policy 2021 and Nationally Determined Contributions

2021.

The Provincial Climate Change Action Plan 2022 is well aligned with the vulnerabilities of

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to Climate Change and the implementation of various adaptation and

mitigation measures highlighted in the policy will cause a positive impact in boosting all

sectors besides imparting awareness to the masses of the province on Climate Change.

The forestry, environment & wildlife department appreciates the contribution of the

parliamentarians, line department, civil societies, academia and intelligencia for their efforts

in realization of KP Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2022. The document will

contribute to revive the fragile ecosystem and sustainable development of natural

resources.

MUHAMMAD ABID MAJEED

SECRETARY TO GOVERNMENT

OF KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA

Forestry, Environment & Wildlife Department

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The formulation of Provincial Climate Change Policy (PCCP) 2017 was

a milestone in the history of KP Environment sector. The updated

National Climate Change Policy 2021, NDCs 2021 together with national

and international commitments to reduce GHG emissions necessitated

updation of Provincial Climate Change Policy and to formulate the

Provincial Climate Change Action Plan for the province.

In this regard, the efforts of Provincial line Departments, Deputy Commissioners of the Province,

Private & Public Sector Organizations and Experts are worth appreciation in formulation of the

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Climate Change Policy & Action Plan-2022. The contribution

of Climate Change Cell of Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Government of Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa, deserves much accolade as they worked wholeheartedly. Besides academia and

civil society also participated and demonstrated their keen interest in suggesting measures by

providing valuable comments and feedback in refining this document.

In formulation of this Action Plan, special focus was given for Youth & Women Development.

The role of Mrs. Aisha Bano Member of Provincial Assembly & Mrs. Amna Durani Director on

the Status of Commission of Women Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and other women working in

International and National Public / Private Sector Organizations also added valuable

contributions during various consultation workshops etc. We highly appreciate the critical

analysis of Chairman Environmental Sciences Department, University of Peshawar, Abdulwali

Khan University Mardan and Haripur University, which were valid and contemporary. We also

acknowledge the support of various Universities, Chairman Textbook Board Peshawar, KP

Chamber of Commerce and Industry, SRSP, IUCN, WWF, Ministry of Climate Change and

especially the UNDP (under GLOF-II Project, Scaling up of Glacial Lakes Outburst Flood in

Northern Pakistan) for financially supporting the formulation of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate

Change Policy & Action Plan 2022.

We also appreciate Honorable Minister and Secretary Forestry, Environment & Wildlife for

supporting and providing guidance and platform to accomplish the activity in a professional

manner.

We highly appreciate the dedication and commitment of Dr. Qamar uz Zaman Chaudhry (Ex.

Director General, Pakistan Meteorological Department) in the formulation of Climate Change

Policy and Action Plan for the province. For the successful implementation of the Policy and

Action Plan in the province, the EPA is looking forward for support of all stakeholders in order

to reduce the risks posed by climate change and to build a resilient province.

MUHAMMAD ANWAR KHAN

Director General

Environmental Protection Agency

Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

PREAMBLE

As the effects of Climate Change become more obvious around the world, vulnerable countries

such as Pakistan are attempting to comprehend the challenges they will face in the future.

Pakistan has an authorized and updated National Climate Change Policy in 2021. However,

following the 18th amendment to Pakistan's constitution, the subject of environment was devolved

to the provinces. Taking into account the possibility of a high degree of vulnerability of Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province to the visible effects of Climate Change, the Government of KP

decided to formulate a Provincial Climate Change Policy in consultation with Government line

Departments to be more specific, target oriented and also in line with the updated National Climate

Change Policy of Pakistan 2021. As a result, a Provincial Climate Change Policy was developed

for the first time in September 2017 and updated in July 2022 to reflect the specific needs of the

province and include Newly Merged Districts (NMDs) and new hazards, such as locust, dengue

and other viral diseases.

This Policy statement proposes two approaches, adaptation and mitigation, to be implemented in

the most vulnerable sectors to the effects of Climate Change. The Policy was developed in

collaboration with government line departments such as forestry, wildlife, irrigation, agriculture,

livestock and food department, academia, NGOs, CSOs and other relevant stakeholders.

The Policy focuses on sectors that require mitigation measures, such as energy, transportation,

waste, industry and urban planning etc. The Policy also outlined methods for capacity building

and training of government line departments for sustainable development. It also emphasizes the

need to streamline Climate Change in various sectors of the economy and development projects

in the province in order to achieve sustainable development and resilience to natural disasters.

The successful implementation of the Policy in relevant sectors of KP would lead to the

stabilization of fragile economy of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

LIST OF ABBREVIATION

AR6

Sixth Assessment Report of IPCC

CCD

Climate Compatible Development

CO2

Carbon Dioxide

CIP II

Community Infrastructure Program Phase 2

CSOs

Civil Society Organizations

DRR

Disaster Risk Reduction

ECNEC

Executive Committee of the National Economic Council

EPA

Environmental Protection Agency

ESRI

Environmental Systems Research Institute

FAO

Food And Agricultural Organization

FE&WD

Forestary, Environment & Wildlife Department

GDP

Gross Domestic Product

GGI

Green Growth Initiative

GGV

Green Growth Vision

GIS/RS

Geographic Information System/Remote Sensing

GLOF

Glacial Lake Outburst Flood

GHG

Greenhouse Gas

Govt. of KP

Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Hectares

HLZ

Holdridge Life Zone

IFAD

International Fund for Agricultural Development

IPCC

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

MAF

Million Acre Feet

NDMA

National Disaster Management Authority

NGOs

Non-Governmental Organizations

NTFP

Non-Timber Forests Produce

NUDP

National Urban Development Policy

OECD

Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development

OCHA

Office for Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

P&DD

Planning & Development Department

PCCPIC

Provincial Climate Change Policy Implementation Committee

PDMA

Provincial Disaster Management Authority

PRS

Poverty Reduction Strategy

Photovoltaic

REDD

Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation

RWSSP

Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project

UNEP

United Nations Environment Program

UNESCO

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

UNFCCC

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change

WHO

World Health Organization

WWF

World Wide Fund for Nature (Formerly, World Wildlife Fund)

 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 
1.  VISION ........................................................................................................................... 1 
1.1  Mission Statement .......................................................................................................... 1 
1.2  Goal ............................................................................................................................... 1 
2.  POLICY OBJECTIVES ................................................................................................... 2 
3.  INTRODUCTION TO CLIMATE CHANGE ...................................................................... 3 
4.  CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS IN KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA....................................... 5 
4.1.  Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – An Ecological Classification ....................................................... 5 
Forests ........................................................................................................................... 9 
Agriculture ...................................................................................................................... 9 
Water.............................................................................................................................. 9 
Biodiversity ..................................................................................................................... 9 
4.2.   Land Cover of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa .............................................................................10 
4.3  Climate Hazards in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa ......................................................................11 
Floods ...........................................................................................................................13 
Droughts ........................................................................................................................14 
4.4  Impacts of Climate Change ...........................................................................................14 
4.5.   Need for a Provincial Climate Change Policy for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa .........................16 
5.  CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION ...............................................................................17 
5.1  Agriculture and Livestock...............................................................................................17 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................18 
5.2   Forestry .........................................................................................................................20 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................21 
5.3   Human Health ..............................................................................................................23 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................24 
5.4   Water Resources ..........................................................................................................25 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................25 
5.5   Biodiversity ....................................................................................................................28 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................30 
5.6   Land and Vulnerable Eco-systems (Mountain Areas, Pastures, Arid and Semi-arid Areas, 
Wetlands, Rangelands) .................................................................................................31 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................31 
5.7   Disaster Preparedness ..................................................................................................32 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................33 
5.8   Socio-economic Measures (Poverty and Gender, Marginalized People Youth Role) .....34 
5.8.1 Poverty ..........................................................................................................................34 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................34 
5.8.2 Gender ..........................................................................................................................34 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................35 
5.8.3 Youth Role ....................................................................................................................35 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................36 
6.  CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION .................................................................................37 
6.1   Energy ...........................................................................................................................37 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................37 
6.2   Energy Efficiency and Energy Conservation ..................................................................38 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................39 
6.3   Transport .......................................................................................................................39 

 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................40 
6.4   Waste ............................................................................................................................41 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................41 
6.5   Industries .......................................................................................................................42 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................42 
6.6   Urban Planning .............................................................................................................43 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................43 
6.7   Carbon Sequestration and Forestry ...............................................................................44 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................44 
6.8   Agriculture and Livestock..............................................................................................45 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................45 
7.  CAPACITY BUILDING ...................................................................................................47 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................47 
8.  TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER .........................................................................................49 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................49 
9.  CLIMATE FINANCE ......................................................................................................51 
Policy Measures ............................................................................................................51 
10.  IMPLEMENTATION .......................................................................................................52 
 
   

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

1. VISION

The Policy envisions a province that is both sustainable and climate resilient for the people of

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

1.1 MISSION STATEMENT

To ensure resilience in all sectors of economy of the province through adaptation and

mitigation strategies and ultimately to contribute to national and global efforts against Climate

Change under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

1.2 GOAL

To ensure that Climate Change is mainstreamed in economically and socially sensitive areas

of the economy and to lead Khyber Pakhtunkhwa toward climate-compatible growth.

This Policy goal has been stated so as to be completely in line with the National Climate Change Policy.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

2. POLICY OBJECTIVES

▪ Formulate a more appropriate and Province-specific Policy that is consistent with

Pakistan's updated National Climate Change Policy 2021.

▪ Develop awareness on Climate Change among all stakeholders in order to implement

essential adaptation/mitigation actions to combat and mitigate detrimental effects.

▪ Incorporate adaptation and mitigation strategies into major relevant sectors, policies,

strategies and plans.

▪ Facilitate Climate Change adaptation and mitigation actions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,

including short-, medium- and long-term climate resilient and sustainable development.

▪ Improve the inter- and intra-departmental coordination and cooperation for

effective planning and execution of actions against Climate Change.

▪ Ensure sustainable water, food and energy resource planning, development and

management for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in the face of a changing climate.

▪ Address Climate Change risks, particularly those posed by climate induced disasters.

▪ Ensure that the concerns of vulnerable, marginalized and indigenous communities are

effectively considered in climate development strategies and planning.

▪ Ensure that the Climate Change Policy is gender inclusive.

▪ To develop climate-resilient infrastructure.

▪ To develop and plan reductions in Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions in accordance with

the most recent NDCs and GHG inventories.

▪ To carry out Climate Inclusive Multi-Hazard Vulnerability and Risk Assessment (CMHVRA)

at the district level.

▪ To encourage public and private sector investment in adaptation and mitigation measures

by developing suitable economic incentives.

▪ To accelerate the Policy coherence and integration to achieve the United Nations’

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the light of its Sustainable Development Report

2020 (SDR2020).

▪ To strengthen an enabling environment for Pakistan’s Nationally Determined Contributions

(NDCs) implementation.

▪ To develop a climate smart plan for the province.

▪ To develop provincial climate-inclusive agro-ecological zones and enforcing their

implementation

▪ To encourage tree plantation, natural resource conservation, nature-based solutions and

long-term sustainability.

▪ To ensure climate-inclusive project planning and implementation.

▪ To provide downscaled NDCs at the provincial and district levels, as well as a GHG

emissions inventory, enabling target-oriented effective implementation.

▪ To develop guidelines for climate-inclusive provincial water, agricultural and energy

policies.

▪ Develop foundations for securing adequate financial and technology assistance, as well

as strengthening institutional and human resource capacities to accomplish Policy

objectives; and be able to tap internationally available financial and technological

opportunities.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

3. INTRODUCTION TO CLIMATE CHANGE

The Earth’s climate has changed frequently over long

periods of geological time in responses to changes in the

strength of the Sun, the shape and tilt of the earth’s orbit

around the Sun, the position and shape of the continents

and the composition of the atmosphere. There is strong

evidence that Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) emission from

human activities are now raising the earth’s temperature

and causing changes in climate. Emissions are projected

to rise significantly over the next few decades leading to

significant increase in global temperatures with profound

risks for the natural environment and human society

worldwide.

According to the latest Intergovernmental Panel on

Climate Change (IPCC) report AR-6, average global

temperatures are expected to rise by 3° C to 6° C by

2100 under SSP

2 4.5 and SSP 5 8.5 scenarios,

respectively. If aggressive actions are taken to reduce

emissions, the temperature change could be modest. If

the present course is continued, however, the amount of

change will be substantial. Most experts agree that the

changes are anthropogenic — caused by humans —

largely from emissions of heat-trapping gases released

to the atmosphere when fossil fuels are burned. Carbon

dioxide (CO

) is the most significant of these gases; CO

levels are at their highest in 650,000 years.

Climatic variations play a pivotal role in the development

and survival of natural ecosystems and of human

societies which place an additional stress on natural

systems. Climate Change is also now considered as a

significant factor in these increases, it is one of the major

challenges that the world is facing in the 21

century and

is adversely affecting sustainable development and

communities, people’s livelihoods, health, shelters and in

some cases, even lives.

Climate Change is expected to result in increased air and

sea temperatures, a gradual rise in sea level, increased variability and seasonality in precipitation

and changes in the frequency and strength of floods, storms, cyclones and hurricanes. Asia has

experienced the most natural and weather-related disasters in the recent decade, accounting for

27.5 percent of global economic damage (IPCC, 2014a

). Pakistan, an Asian country, suffered

estimated damages of 10 billion US dollars as a result of the 2010 floods (World Bank and Asian

Shared Socio-economic Pathways (SSP)

IPCC. (2014a). Climate Change 2014, Synthesis Report, Summary for Policymakers.

What is the Greenhouse

Effect?

The atmosphere is

composed of nitrogen (78%),

oxygen (21%), carbon

dioxide (0.04%), argon

(0.9%), water vapours (0-

4%) and trace gases such as

argon, xenon, neon, krypton

and helium. Carbon dioxide

and other gases such as

methane and nitrous oxide

trap the infra-red radiation

from the sun and prevent it

from escaping by a natural

process called “the

greenhouse effect”. This

phenomenon maintains the

temperature of the earth

allowing living things to

survive.

Excessive burning of fossil

fuels for anthropogenic

activities releases additional

which builds up and

traps additional heat which

would otherwise escape.

This human-caused blanket

effect leads to warming of the

planet, disrupting the

atmospheric balance that

keeps the climate stable.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

Development Bank, 2010

). Not only have such recurring weather catastrophes become more

common, but their consequences for human health, livelihoods and economic development have

grown in magnitude and extent.

To address the implications caused by Climate Change, appropriate strategic actions are

required. Climate Change actions can be split into two categories:

Mitigation — a process of reducing GHG emissions that contribute to Climate Change. It

comprises measures for lowering GHG emissions and improving GHG sinks.

Adaptation — a process, or combination of actions and measures, that reduces the susceptibility

of natural and human systems to the impacts of Climate Change. Adaptation can also be defined

as learning to live with the threats of Climate Change.

Climate Change adaptation and mitigation are often regarded as Policy domains. Table 1

summarizes the major features of international and national Climate Change Policy instruments.

Trends

of stresses on several natural systems and ecosystems due to Climate Change have

been observed, recorded and debated upon by international organizations: UNESCO, IFAD,

World Watch Institute, FAO, WHO, OECD, WWF & UNEP.

Table 1: Key aspects of Climate Change Policy

Policy Response

Objectives and Targets

United Nation Framework

Convention on Climate

Change (UNFCCC)

UNFCCC seeks to reduce international GHG emissions by

setting National level targets based on the concept of

‘common but differentiated responsibility’. This means that

nations which emit majority of GHGs need to reduce GHGs at

a greater rate.

UNFCCC’s Kyoto Protocol

Under the UNFCCC’s Kyoto Protocol, developed countries

agreed to reduce their overall emissions of a basket of GHG

by 5.2 percent below 1990 levels over the period 2008-2012.

Updated National Climate

Change Policy 2021

It facilitates the transition to a resource-efficient, low-carbon

economy in order to achieve sustainable growth. It provides a

long-term framework for action to factor in resource efficiency

in a balanced manner in several Policy sectors, including

Climate Change, energy, transportation, industry, agriculture,

biodiversity and regional development.

Updated NDCs 2021

Under the updated NDCs, the government of Pakistan set a

cumulative aggressive objective of overall 50 percent

reduction in projected emissions by 2030, with 15 percent

coming from domestic resources and the remaining 35

percent contingent on international grant financing.

World Bank and Asian Development Bank (2010), Pakistan Floods 2010: Preliminary Damage and Needs Assessment

Detailed information on climate-induced stresses is available on: http://www.igbp.net.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

4. CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS IN KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), a topographically diverse province of Pakistan, is situated in the

northwest region of the country. The land of KP is an abode to Hindu Kush, Himalayan and

Karakoram Mountain ranges predominantly in the Northern, North-West and Eastern parts of the

province. In contrast, southern parts of KP are dominated by central valley plains comprising

agricultural land and rangelands. Extreme climate conditions range throughout the province. The

northern region of KP experiences extremely cold and snowy winters, with heavy rainfall and

pleasant summers, whereas the southern parts of KP experience fairly less severe winters,

moderate rainfall and hotter summers. Chitral, the highest district of KP experiences the lowest

temperatures in winter; hence many glaciers are found in this district. D.I Khan, the southernmost

district of KP, experiences milder winters and therefore is dominated by agricultural and

rangelands due to optimum climate conditions for agriculture.

4.1 Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – An Ecological Classification

According to the study conducted by Helvetas Pakistan in cooperation with Swiss Development

and Cooperation (SDC), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) is divided into nine agro-ecological zones

based on climate, rainfall, temperature, altitude, soil and topography. This zonal distribution has

been used in this text to allow convenience in identifying potential future impacts from external

forces such as Climate Change (Source: Nizami et al., 2020)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

Table 2: Details of the agro-ecological zones of KP

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

Table 3: District-wise distribution of the agro-ecological zones of KP

Note: This study provides agro-ecological zones for entire KP (considering 33 Districts).

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

Figure 1: Agro-ecological zones of KP (Source: Nizami et al., 2020)

In order to identify the types of impacts which each zone is prone to, it is important to identify the

land cover and land use in each zone. 33% of the forests covers of Pakistan are located in KP

(Atlas of Pakistan 2012). The land cover of KP has varying characteristics from north to south,

therefore has different usage, 20.3% of KP is covered with forests, primarily the Hindu Kush

Himalayan Region. (The description is given in Table-3).

Although KP has been divided into nine agro-ecological zones, each zone can have cross cutting

sectors, such as forests, agriculture, water and biodiversity. A description of these sectors and the

zones in which they are most common is given below.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

Forests

The northern part of the Province is comprised mainly of snowcapped high mountains and forests.

The high northern mountains of Chitral, Hazara and Swat above 4000m have low vegetative

cover. Alpine zone forests are found between 3350-3360m. Dry temperate coniferous are present

in the dry ranges of Himalayas and Hindukush. Himalayan moist temperate forests are found in

Hazara division (Kohistan, southern parts of Palas Valley, Lower Kaghan Valley) at an elevation

of 1525-3660m. There is a narrow zone of subtropical forests between 900-2000m in the Southern

parts of the Himalayan Mountains of Hazara and Swat Valley (Ahmad & Khan, n.d.).

Agriculture

Central Valley Plains and Piedmonts are used for agriculture and livestock grazing purposes.

Livelihood is majorly based on agriculture and livestock in KP, with over 80% of the population

dependent on agriculture for income. The agriculture sector also contributes to 20% of the

provincial GDP and employs 44% of the labor force (Source: EPA, Govt. of KP). Major crops

include wheat, rice, sugarcane, maize etc.. Livestock contributes approximately 52% to agriculture

Sector.

Water

With the province heavily dependent on agriculture for livelihood, water plays an important role in

the sustenance of the population. The Indus River and its tributaries are the main source of water

for the province. The province has many lakes which contribute aesthetically to the region

providing tourist attractions as well as freshwater. These lakes, such as Lake Saif-ul-Malook, Lake

Dudipatsar, Lake Lulusar, Lake Shandur, Broghal Lake, etc. also come under protected wetland

sites of KP wildlife biodiversity (KP Wildlife Biodiversity Preservation, conservation and

management Act, 2015), whereas Tanda Dam in Kohat District & Thanedar Wala in Lakki Marwat

District are the Ramsar sites identified under the Ramsar convention.

In addition, glaciers are important reservoirs for KP province. They feed into the Indus River and

its tributaries and provide freshwater for agriculture and domestic use, moreover, these are

important reservoirs for the future and indicators of Climate Change. The Karakoram-Himalayan

ranges are snowbound throughout the year and have the greatest ice and snow cover in any

mountainous system outside the Polar Regions. Glaciers are cold deserts; however, their

significance for the future and present of KP and Pakistan is immense.

Biodiversity

The topographic variety of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa makes the province diverse in species. The

Himalayan forests are the habitats for many mammal and bird species. Out of 188 species of

mammals that occur in Pakistan, 98 mammal species are found in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, amongst

these endangered species are the Snow Leopard, Brown Bear, Ibex and Lion-eared bat. Moreover

456 species of birds, 56 species of reptiles and approximately 4500 species of plants are also

found in KP (Source: EPA, Govt. of KP)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

4.2 Land Cover of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Different agencies and reports have different estimates of land cover in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

However, the latest land use/land cover classification is provided by ESRI based on Sentinnel-2,

2021 data. The KP land cover has been extracted from the same data and provided in Table 4

and Figure 2.

Figure 2: Land Use/Land Cover Map for KP (Source: ESRI, 2021)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

Table 4: Land Use/Land Cover distribution of KP

Land Use

Area (ha)

Area (%)

Water

73,254

0.72

Forest/Tree-Cover

842,415

8.28

Crops

1,177,143

11.57

Built-Up Area

605,359

5.95

Bare Ground

1,031,654

10.14

Snow/Ice

371,355

3.65

Rangeland

6,072,920

59.69

(Source: ESRI Land Use-Land Cover Classification, 2021)

4.3 Climate Hazards in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Climate Change is having an impact in many parts of the world. The Intergovernmental Panel on

Climate Change (IPCC) Assessment Report 6 (AR-6) 2021 acknowledges the relationship

between Climate Change and its impacts on natural and human systems. Furthermore, there is

mounting evidence that Climate Change is responsible for the disruption of weather patterns,

which is catalyzing glacier melting, Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs), changes in

hydrological systems, species diversity due to changes in migration pathways and changes in

crop production and yield, which are threatening existing food production patterns. According to

the report, the frequency of heat waves in Asia is predicted to grow and last for longer periods of

time. The number of cold days and nights will decrease, while the number of warm days and nights

will increase. As a result, regardless of what is causing Climate Change, there are evidences from

historical events all across the world that Climate Change is endangering the natural balance of

nature and demonstrating human dependence and sensitivity to nature (IPCC, 2021).

Over the past decade, impacts of Climate Change have been experienced in the form of warming

of the atmosphere and ocean, rise in sea level and increase in concentration of greenhouse gases.

Therefore, there is no ambiguity related to the evidence that Climate Change is happening.

Impacts of Climate Change also make the destruction caused by natural hazards even worse.

Increase in events of heavy precipitation accompanied by rise in average surface temperature;

alter the natural weather patterns & thus natural hazards become more intense in vulnerable

areas. Natural hazards are defined as naturally occurring events which are potentially dangerous

to communities in difficult and disaster-prone terrains. Earthquakes, landslides, floods, droughts,

hurricanes and volcanic eruptions can be classified as naturally occurring hazards. Without proper

risk reduction, mitigation and adaptation methods, these natural hazards can turn into catastrophic

disasters. KP Climate Change hazards include glacier melting, drought, floods, Glacial Lake

Outburst Floods (GLOFs), high winds, avalanches, land sliding, locusts, dengue and smog etc.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is highly prone to negative impacts of Climate Change. Table 5 shows

vulnerability of districts in KP to climate hazards based on National Disaster Management Plan

(NDMP), 2012. However, these hazards need to be addressed based on simulation modeling and

projections.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is located in the mid-latitude region on the globe. In the sixth annual

assessment report of the IPCC, 2021, mid latitude regions have been warned of extreme weather

pattern. Monsoon rainfall has been predicted to increase and go further up North due to warmer

temperatures. Wet regions (such as the sub humid wet mountains) will get more precipitation and

dry regions (Central Valley and Piedmont Plains) will receive less precipitation than before. These

heavy precipitation patterns will accelerate glacial melting resulting in GLOFs in Northern regions

and flash flooding while less precipitation will contribute to droughts

in dry regions.

Table 5: District-wise Natural Hazards Vulnerability Assessment

S.No

District

Flood Risk

Landsli

de Risk

Earthquake

Risk

Cyclone

Risk

Drought Risk

GLOF

Risk

Charsadda

Shangla

Swat

Nowshera

Mansehra

Buner

Bajaur

Peshawar

Mohmand

Upper Dir

Swabi

Bannu

Abbottabad

Khyber

D. I. Khan

Batagram

Mardan

Lower Dir

Haripur

Hangu

Malakand

Orakzai

Tank

Kohistan

Kohat

South

Waziristan

Chitral

Lakki

Marwat

North

Waziristan

Kurram

Karak

Legend

5 (Very High)

4 (High)

3 (Medium)

2 (Low)

1 (Very Low)

Source: National Disaster Management Plan - 2012

Note: Number of districts are as per NDMP-2012

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

The natural hazards that are most likely to occur in the province in the coming years are discussed

below in detail.

Floods

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has an intricate river system, with many smaller rivers draining into the Indus

River running through the province. The major rivers that cross the region are Indus River, Kabul

River, Swat River, Kurram River and Gomal River. The Indus River and its tributaries have a

capacity of 154 MAF (Million Acre Feet) of water annually, which includes 145 MAF from North-

Western Rivers (Indus, Jhelum, Kabul and their adjoining smaller rivers) and 9 MAF from eastern

rivers (essentially Ravi and Sutlej) (EPA, Govt of KP).

Figure 3: River system of Indus Basin (Mukhopadhyay and Khan,2016

)

Due to these river systems, the region is prone to flash flooding during heavy monsoon season.

Flood frequency has been increased in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region in the past few years.

Almost every year, the region is flooded due to heavy precipitation. In 2007, Kohistan was badly

flooded due to torrential rain and glacial melting. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa experienced even worse

flooding in 2010 – the worst in recent history - resulting in displacement of hundreds of thousands

of people. The following years - 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 - saw a repetition in the pattern,

admittedly though, with less intensity. The repetitive flooding over the years with rehabilitation

from previous floods still underway made conditions even more challenging and costly. In the flood

B. Mukhopadhyay and Khan,2016, Handbook of applied hydrology, Chapter 109: Indus River Basin

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

of 2010, according to data collected by OCHA, 4,725,695 people were affected in Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa. The flood of 2015 was one of the most severe GLOF disasters, affecting 321, 644

people in Chitral and destroying 1200 acres of standing crops (PDMA, 2015

). Other devastating

GLOFs events have occured in the Golen Gol and Reshun Valleys in recent years.

The main regions of KP which are expected to continue having flood hazards are the Himalayan

moist temperature forests between 1525-3660m. Due to climate change, this region will

experience intense precipitation especially in lower Kaghan Valley, Galiat and southern parts of

Kohistan. Therefore, these areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are at high risk of flooding and strategic

actions to mitigate and adapt to these weather events are of great importance.

Droughts

Droughts in the southern parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa are more common as compared to the

northern parts. The central valley plain, Piedmont plain and Suleiman Piedmont are areas

dedicated mostly to agriculture. The total cultivated area in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is about 1.65

million ha. This signifies the magnitude of impact of a drought on food security in the province.

With rising temperatures and decrease in rainfall in dry regions, particularly in southern parts, are

most likely going to be water stressed region in the coming years. The climate ranges from warm

and sub-humid in valley plains to hot and arid southern parts. Dera Ismail Khan is the area which

will be most prone to droughts. Although, drought is a less common hazard compared to floods,

the implications on food security cannot be ignored. Deserts in southern parts like Karak Lakki

Marwat and DI Khan may expand in case of prolonged droughts.

The southern parts of the province receive less rainfall and higher temperatures in the summer

and drier winters. Climate forecasts predict that dry regions will get drier and wet regions will get

wetter. As these areas are drier especially during the winter and hot during the summers there is

an expected increase in average temperatures in the summer. These high temperatures may be

optimal for some crops to cultivate but high temperatures will increase evapotranspiration which

in turn increases the demand of crops for water. Therefore, the quantity and availability of

groundwater and irrigation water will be vital in determining water stress in the area.

4.4 Impacts of Climate Change

Natural hazards are not the only impacts of Climate Change which will be experienced by Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa. In fact, there are other impacts as well which give rise to many development

challenges. These impacts will be experienced across the nine agro-ecological zones of Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa.

Increase in surface temperature- According to the IPCC AR-6 assessment, nearly the

entire globe has witnessed surface warming. This will result in hotter, longer summers and shorter,

milder winters, which will have a substantial impact on cropping patterns of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Higher temperatures also mean that monsoon rainfall will be more severe, increasing the risk of

flooding and glacial melting in northern parts of the province, which are the epicenters of glaciers

and subtropical forests.

Variation in precipitation- More intense rainfall over a shorter period of time will cause flash

flooding in the mountainous regions (northern parts of the province) , while the floodplains – the

PDMA. (2015, 08 01). Reliefweb. Retrieved from http://reliefweb.int/report/pakistan/special-report-chitral-and-situational-update-

floods-khyber-pakhtunkhwa

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

main centers of population and agricultural activity (central valley plain and piedmont plain) due

to alluvial soil – will be affected by massive riverine floods. Intense rainfall can cause soil erosion

and nutrient depletion. Furthermore, a lack of rainfall in drier areas of central valley and southern

parts with high altitudes would result in drought.

Changes in food production- This impact is most significant on central valley and southern parts

where majority of the agricultural activity occurs. Changes in crop variety and quantity will occur

when weather patterns shift, temperature rises and rainfall becomes more irregular. Under the

expected changing climate, viral infections, weeds and pest attacks are projected to grow.

Farmers will also have to cope with depleting water supplies and extreme temperatures that are

unfavorable for crop growth. Moreover, they will have to deal with frequent insect infestation due

to favorable warmer humid climate for insects. In the north with an increase in temperature, more

crops will be able to be cultivated, such as wheat, maize, rice etc., whereas the Central Valley

Plain, which is currently the main region for agriculture and also the southern Piedmont region,

will face water shortage due to decrease in rainfall, causing a decrease in crop production. These

changes along with natural hazards such as floods (which completely destroy agricultural fields

and ready to harvest crops) and droughts will cause food security issues in the province.

Shifting weather patterns- The people, flora and fauna of KP may be severely impacted by the

changing weather patterns, which include heavy rainfall and temperature rise. Warmer weather

stimulates the growth of forest insects, which damages the trees. Droughts, on the other hand,

have a comparable weakening impact. Temperature rise also encourages the spread of viruses

and bacteria, posing health concerns to individuals, particularly those who consume

polluted water. Moreover, droughts and floods play a significant part in the scarcity of potable

drinking water.

Glacial melting- The Hindu Kush Himalayan Range is dominated by glaciers throughout the year.

Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) are one of the most serious hazards that affect the

mountain areas of the province. Higher temperatures and longer summers have led to rapid

glacier melting. Normally, the spring season aids in the freezing process of glaciers because the

temperature is lower. However, due to global warming and extremely short spring season, glaciers

do not have enough time to freeze. As a result, glaciers melt at a faster rate throughout the

summer. These glaciers are natural, huge reservoirs of fresh water that take many years to fill up.

As a result, if glacier melting is not addressed appropriately, the province may face more GLOFs

events together with freshwater crisis.

Loss of species diversity- Climate Change is also a threat to diversity of species. There are

approximately 100 endemic species in Pakistan, with 90 percent of these are found in the province

of KP. Several mammal species, seven bird species and twelve internationally endangered

endemic and migratory birds live in the Himalayan range and sub humid forests of KP. As a result,

mountain regions are more vulnerable to biodiversity loss as a result of Climate Change .

Furthermore, changes in precipitation and temperature patterns affect ecosystems, which provide

habitat for numerous forest bird, mammals and insect species. Many plant species are unable to

adapt to rapid Climate Changes. The same is true for mammals. Furthermore, changes in

ecosystems can trigger changes in animal feeding patterns, weakening them and eventually

leading to extinction (IPCC, 2021).

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

People and society- Climate Change has an impact on how people live. People must devise

policies and strategies that will not only minimize the effects of Climate Change but will also slow

down the rate of Climate Change. Extreme weather events caused by Climate Change have a

significant impact on human health, livelihood, infrastructure and culture. People are also

displaced as a result of Climate Change due to the loss of infrastructure and livelihood.

4.5 Need for the Updated Provincial Climate Change Policy for KP

So far, the KP Climate Change Policy 2017 has served as the guiding framework in the province

on adaptation and mitigation measures. An updated provincial Policy is now required for the

following reasons:

▪ The National Climate Change Policy has been updated in 2021

▪ The Nationally Determined Contributions have been updated and agreed in 2021

▪ The IPCC latest report based on state-of-the-art tools and data has been released in 2021

▪ The earlier Climate Change Policy was based on AR-5 datasets, whereas now the AR-6

datasets are available for future hazards assessment.

▪ The previous Policy does not cover some of the new challenges and hazards, such as

locust attacks, dengue and other viral diseases

▪ Update Policy priorities, guidelines, Policy instruments and measures to address Climate

Change as applicable and relevant to KP Province including Newly Merged Districts

(NMDs).

The revised Climate Change Policy will provide comprehensive guidelines to the Government of

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for implementing the major Climate Change objectives of national and

provincial priorities related to adaptation and mitigation of GHG emissions.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

5. CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION

Agriculture and livestock are a source of income and livelihood for almost 80% of the Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa population. Dependence on agriculture as a source of livelihood is significantly

higher in rural areas than in urban areas. By value, crops constitute about 70% of the agricultural

produce whereas livestock rearing is around 30% of the same. Majority of the land owners are

small farmers which depend on rain fed agriculture. Land for cultivation is irrigated through a

network of canals and streams and also through rain. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa major crops include

wheat, maize, sugarcane and tobacco etc. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has a significant advantage in

production of fruits namely watermelon, apricot, guava, walnut, apple, mango etc. In Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa livestock rearing is practiced mainly for meat, wool, dairy products and eggs from

poultry. Cows, buffalo, goat and sheep etc. are some of the common livestock animals reared in

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Unpredictable weather due to change in climate is threatening the agriculture and livestock sector

of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Climate variations affect growth duration, soil moisture, nutrient levels

and water availability for crops. These can increase the chance of reduced yields or even crop

failure. Heat waves can increase animal mortality, increase prevalence of pathogens, threaten

pasture and feed supplies.

5.1 Agriculture and Livestock

The agriculture sector in KP is plagued by a variety of issues. Small farmers own about one-fifth

of the cultivable land in the province. The strain on natural resources is increasing as a result of

urbanization, the scarcity of uncultivated land and the ineffectiveness of the existing irrigation

system. The province is highly dependent on the import of various products from other provinces,

including wheat. The crop production is low because the fertilizer and seed quality is substandard.

Approximately 20% of cultivable land is uncultivated and a large portion of this uncultivated land

is prone to land degradation (water logging and salinity), urbanization and inefficient water usage.

The use of fertilizers and pesticides should not be excessive in order to increase agricultural

productivity. Farmers frequently use pesticides in excess of their permitted limits due to lack of

regulation and awareness and they often utilize chemicals that are forbidden in the international

market. The institutional capacity of the KP government's departments and research is

inadequate. Other issues confronting the agriculture sector include a lack of economic incentives

and financial structures for farmers and weak market mechanisms, which needs improvement.

Rangelands and livestock in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa complement each other and consequently play

an important role in the rural economy. The majority of the livestock are cows, goats and sheep,

however there are donkeys, buffaloes, horses, mules and yaks. Domestic poultry is also employed

for egg and protein production. Transhumance livestock farming is also practiced at higher

altitudes, in which households keep a primary home at lower elevations where they live along with

their animals for a specific period (mostly seven months). During the winter and early spring

months, when livestock feeds on hay, straw and dry alfalfa, problems develop owing to a severe

lack of fodder availability. Due to the low nutritional value of dry grass, livestock become weaker

and malnourished during this time. During the summer, the animals gain optimal weight because

they are fed on fresh grass and shrubs by taking them to grazing lands and alpine pastures. This

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

annual cycle of under-nourishment and over-nourishment in animals is a primary cause of low

milk, meat and wool production, as well as low animal immunity to viral and bacterial infections.

The provision of veterinary services is a challenge, hampered by a lack of staff, equipment, drugs

and farmer awareness, as well as seasonal relocation of animals to inaccessible locations.

Policy Measures

I. Technology

▪ Promote biotechnology in terms of more carbon-responsive crops, improved breeds and

livestock production through genetic engineering. (H)

▪ Improve irrigation practices by adopting modern techniques such as laser land-leveling,

sprinklers and drip irrigation wherever feasible. (H)

▪ Using GIS/RS remote sensing techniques, monitor land-use and land-cover for KP and

develop a land-use plan to manage and plan for agricultural activities. (M)

▪ Encourage the use of appropriate technologies for small-scale irrigation, water re-use

(waste/water recycling) and rainwater harvesting, etc. (H)

▪ Encourage the development of biogas plants in order to reduce GHG emissions. (H)

▪ Efficient utilization of crop residue & agro-industrial by products for animal feeding by using

modern techniques. (M)

▪ Promoting water conservation techniques such as raised beds, mulching and inter-

cropping. (H)

▪ Encourage measures to increase productivity including use of soil management

techniques, organic farming land resource management, artificial insemination and

livestock feed enrichment techniques. (H)

▪ Diversification in the Livestock Sector by modern techniques. (M)

II. Research

▪ Develop new crop varieties that are high yielding, resistant to heat stress, drought tolerant,

less vulnerable to heavy rains and less prone to insect and pest attack. (H)

▪ Develop and introduce improved livestock breeds that have higher milk and meat

productivity, are less prone to heat stress and are drought tolerant. (H)

▪ Develop high-quality datasets on crop, soil and climate-related parameters in order to find

optimal cropping patterns for each zone and to support research work on Climate Change

impact assessment and productivity projection studies. (H)

▪ Develop research on climate smart agriculture and livestock sector, exploring impacts of

Climate Change on productivity of the two sectors and ways these can be addressed and

reduced. (H)

▪ Enhance the research capability of several relevant organizations in order to make reliable

projections of climatic parameters and river flows for seasonal, inter-annual and inter-

H= High priority, M = Medium priority and L = Low priority

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

decadal timeframes to assess the related anticipated consequences on various crops and

develop appropriate adaptation methods. (H)

▪ Develop and propagate low-cost food preservation and storage technologies. (M)

▪ Enhance veterinary extension services and research technology development. (M)

▪ Strengthening of coordinated Research and Development activities through sharing and

access to resources and equipment, GIS, IT & Networking etc. (H)

III. General Management

▪ Revise agriculture and livestock legislation, policies and plans to reflect Climate Change

considerations and compliance with the National Agriculture Policy 2018. (H)

▪ Document and promote appropriate indigenous knowledge and best practices

together with Integrated Pest Management (IPM). (H)

▪ Map potentially harmful weeds (such as Parthenium) and implement protective measures.

(H)

▪ Strengthen regulatory and monitoring mechanisms to reduce the use of harmful/banned

fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides while encouraging the use of organic farming

techniques and water and soil conservation. (H)

▪ Streamline agriculture extension services especially to include Climate Change adaptation

for better productivity and enhance the capacity of farmers. (M)

▪ Ensure the access of high-quality feed and fodder to livestock to supplement their grazing

on rangelands. (M)

▪ Improve feed nutritional quality by using multi-nutrient blocks (MNB) made from urea,

molasses, vitamins and minerals. (H)

▪ Establish Climate Change Units in agricultural research institutions to develop adaptation

strategies for the projected impacts of Climate Change on agriculture. (H)

▪ Promote fodder conservation and preparation of feed supplement for livestock. (H)

▪ Strengthen capacities of relevant stakeholders including farming communities on

sustainable farming techniques. (H)

▪ Recommendation of result-based prophylactic measures in concerned area for remedial

purpose. (H)

▪ Develop climate-smart agriculture and green plans for the province. (H)

▪ Defining climate-inclusive agro-ecological zones in provinces to facilitate more area-

specific and action-oriented research, climate-compatible planning and development. (H)

▪ Preparation of a district-level sectorial GHG emissions inventory. (H)

▪ Downscaling of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) at district levels. (H)

H= High priority, M = Medium priority and L = Low priority

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ Development / downscaling of district wise climate scenarios to link climate adaptation and

mitigation measures with district development plans. (M)

▪ Prepare baseline for Climate Change measurement and monitoring at provincial level. (H)

IV. Risk Management

▪ Develop a proper risk management plan, including crop insurance to protect against crop

failures caused by extreme weather events (such as floods and droughts) and locusts

attack. (H)

▪ Assess, manage and reduce risks to crops by developing risk management systems for

extreme weather events, water conservation strategies, desert cultivation and crop

insurance. (H)

▪ Assess, manage and reduce risks to livestock by developing risk management systems

for extreme weather events, livestock disease monitoring, surveillance system and

livestock health units. (H)

▪ Encourage farmers, particularly in rain-fed areas, to avoid monoculture and instead

cultivate a diverse range of heat and drought-resistant low delta crops to prevent crop

failure. (H)

▪ Encourage agriculture drought management practices that recognize drought as a

component of a highly variable climate, rather than considering it as a cause of natural

disasters. (H)

▪ Enhance collaboration between the environmental agencies and livestock sector, to

facilitate the farming communities for the upcoming environmental changes. (M)

▪ Conduct awareness campaign, which can enable farmers to focus their attention on

adoption and change in livestock practices to meet the new challenges. (H)

▪ Capacity building of farmers on appropriate animal husbandry practices & disease

prevention. (H)

▪ Production of veterinary biologics on large scale for livestock / poultry disease prevention.

(M)

▪ Assess probable viral infections in the future and propose preventive actions in the wake of

Climate Change. (H)

5.2 Forestry

According to the Planning and Development Department Govt. of KP, the forest cover provides a

source of income for many people in Pakistan. This sector requires a lot of labor and it has a lot

of potential for generating income and alleviating poverty. Aside from being a source of income,

forests also serve as a home for a variety of species. Climate Change has an impact on forests

both directly and indirectly. Climate Change affects not just forest production and growth, but it is

H= High priority, M = Medium priority and L = Low priority

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

also associated with an increase in the number of forest disturbances. Carbon dioxide levels in

the atmosphere, precipitation and temperature are all important factors influencing forest

productivity. Storms, droughts and decreased tree health are some of the forest disturbances that

influence forest productivity and tree species distribution. Due to lack of preventive techniques for

improving forest health, valuable goods and services derived from forest ecosystems may be lost.

Non-Timber Forest Produce (NTFP) is a vital source of revenue for forest inhabitants, providing a

variety of fodders, resins, medicinal plants, honey, Mazri leaves and gums. Over exploitation of

forests and Climate Change have significantly influenced KP's forest sector. As a result,

restoration of damaged natural forests, watershed sources and pasturelands in the province must

be prioritized.Moreover, promotion of NTFP is imperative in reducing poverty and improving the

livelihood of people dependent on it.

Over the last five years, significant efforts have been made to revitalize the provincial forest

resources. Billion Tree Afforestation project is a step towards green growth initiative of the

province. At national level, the TBTTP is an extension of the Billion Tree Afforestation Project

(BTAP), which was undertaken in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province from 2015 to 2018 and

successfully planted one billion plants. Both of these programs are well-known around the world.

Policy Measures

I. Research

▪ Conduct research and data collection using modern methodologies and instruments to

assess the current state of forests and the effects of Climate Change on forestry. (H)

▪ Improve capacity and create research opportunities for assessing, planning and

monitoring the rising climate challenges. (H)

II. Awareness Raising

▪ Encourage multinational organizations and agencies to sponsor 'Corporate Social

Responsibility' awareness campaigns about the benefits of forest ecosystems. (H)

▪ Increase public and private sector awareness of the benefits of conservation, including

reduced land degradation, heat waves, high winds, intense rainfall and floods, as well as

the protection of existing forests and the benefits of afforestation. (H)

▪ Female engagement in plant nurseries should be encouraged. (H)

▪ Facilitating plantation drives at the school, college and university levels. (H)

III. Governance Reforms

▪ Streamline legislation – if necessary - and undertake concerted legal action against the

timber mafia to prevent poaching of forest timber and for adoption of new management

approaches, regularization of mechanism for NTFP management, taking measures for the

promotion of ecotourism, provision of magistrate power to forest staff and leasing plus

mining within forest etc.(H)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ The regulation of appropriate ecological and environmental functions must adhere to

UNFCCC resolutions, as well as the REDD+ and REDD++ approach. (M)

IV. Enhancing Adaptive Capacity

▪ Encourage adaptive forest management and conservation approaches tailored to specific

areas, with more participation from forest-dependent communities and a gender-inclusive

approach. (H)

▪ Establishment of gene bank of forest species to preserve the genome in order to combat

the possibility of erosion of any individual species or gene within the gene pool of Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa Forest. (H)

V. Forest Management

▪ Investigate and create innovative forest management and adaptive planning solutions in

accordance with Climate Change scientific studies. (H)

▪ Assess the Natural Capital Accounts (NCA) for protected habitats. (H)

▪ Maintain and enhance ecological and environmental values of forests that include but are

not limited to water yield, carbon sink, land stabilization and biodiversity conservation to

stabilize ecosystem and nature conservation for recreation, games and sports. (H)

▪ Develop capacities for assessment, planning and monitoring of the forest resources, to

remove threats to deforestation and loss of biodiversity so that adverse changes that may

arise can be detected and redressed through revised codes and management plans. (H)

▪ Establish a network of forest protected areas, buffer zones and ecological corridors, where

possible, to conserve biosphere reserves particularly in unique types of forests. (M)

▪ Conserve and promote Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) through sustainable

use mechanisms and proper processing and marketing management in order to boost

income from these activities and improve the livelihoods of underprivileged people living

in forest zones. (H)

▪ Manage, develop and rehabilitate the rangeland through the creation of a new rangelands

management circle. (M)

▪ Encourage private sector for increasing forest cover on available wastelands particularly

for enhancing timber production. (M)

▪ The entire watershed area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa needs to be treated simultaneously

through the mechanism of complete valley treatment instead of patch plantation approach.

(M)

▪ Ban all the anthropogenic activities in the fragile areas of all ecosystems especially not to

allow housing schemes inside or nearby forest areas. (H)

▪ Fuel wood extraction being the main cause of forest depletion can be controlled by

arranging alternative energy sources to the forest areas. (H)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ Promote urban and peri-urban forestry. (H)

▪ Ensure forest land is not transferred or leased to any government institution or private

entity for purposes other than preserving and enhancing the forest value. (M)

▪ Promote urban forestry, for Landscape improvement, social forestry and farm forestry to

increase woody biomass out of forest areas. (H)

▪ Develop mechanisms for more preservation and less conservation approaches to ensure

more sustainable management of all types of forests by developing working plan codes

and manuals of strategic, operational management plans, as well as Village Land Use

Plans (VLUPs) that include biodiversity working circle, gender working circle, community

welfare working circle, eco-tourism working circle and improvement working circle in

addition to conventional/traditional protection or commercial working circles through

participatory integrated management approach. (H)

▪ Facilitate urban plantation along highways, buildings and high-rise infrastructure. (H)

▪ Cultivate diverse and aged forest belts around forest parks to mitigate the effects of

potential snow and wind storms. (M)

▪ Create efficient methods to protect the interests of vulnerable forest-dependent

populations. (H)

VI. Reducing Forest Fires, Disease Outbreaks and Other Damage

▪ Enhance capacity building of forest department to combat forest fires and include forest

communities in wildfire detection and suppression. (H)

▪ Provide forest fire prediction and protection services. (H)

▪ Adopt tissue culture technique to combat the impact of climate on natural regeneration and

seed viability issues. (H)

▪ Maintain viable populations of predatory birds and insects to ensure biological control of

forest pests. (H)

VII. Reducing Soil Erosion

▪ Identify and declare vulnerable uphill fragile watershed areas as sensitive and place them

under specific silvicultural management by incorporating local populations in order to

prevent floods and siltation of water reservoirs. (H)

▪ Afforestation of barren and degraded lands as well as uphill watershed areas to control

sediment and various types of soil erosion. (H)

5.3 Human Health

Human health vulnerability to Climate Change is determined by exposure, sensitivity and coping

capacity. With rising temperatures and the frequency of natural disasters, disease prevalence is

expected to rise, particularly for water-borne diseases and infections (IPCC, 2021). Heat strokes,

gastrointestinal problems, respiratory diseases, skin diseases, eye infections, malaria and

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

mortality due to extreme weather events are likely to increase in severity, frequency and intensity.

Storms, floods and droughts, caused by Climate Change, can force people to migrate to urban

centers of the province. This can have spill-over effects such as lack of housing facilities, water

and sanitation problems and an increase in transfer of diseases in high population density areas

of KP. The province already suffers from high mortality rates for infants, children and women and

inadequacy of public health facilities and service, which are likely to be exacerbated by the impacts

of Climate Change if not addressed effectively.

Policy Measures

▪ Carry out research to assess the effects of Climate Change on human health and the

health sector in KP Province, evaluating the risk of conditions, symptoms and diseases

that are likely to have an influence on human health. (H)

▪ Inform, sensitize, educate and train health professionals and the general public on Climate

Change-related health risks. (H)

▪ Ensure that preventive measures and resources such as vaccinations, high-quality

medication and safe drinking water, are widely and affordably available to the general

public, particularly during climate-related extreme events. (H)

▪ Develop plans and strategies to forecast, monitor and address the impacts of Climate

Change (extreme temperatures, extreme weather events and resulting effects) on health

through both preventive - measures such as building more healthcare facilities in both

urban and rural areas, providing vaccines, improving access to clean drinking water - and

curative measures such as medications. (H)

▪ Identify the vulnerable communities, enhance their access to and quality of health services

and strengthen their knowledge and capacities to minimize their health susceptibility to

Climate Change. (H)

▪ At all levels of service delivery, improve data recording, reporting, analysis and storage of

climate-sensitive disorders. (H)

▪ Prioritize climate-related risks based on assessment and identification of technology and

infrastructure alternatives to improve resilience in the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene

(WASH) sector. (H)

▪ Consider public-private partnerships to address the issue of WASH service provision

financial access as well as quality assurance. (H)

▪ Inform, sensitize, educate and train health professionals and the general public about

Climate Change related health risks like dengue, particularly those affecting women and

children. (H)

▪ Take the required actions to incorporate "Health in All Policies" (HiAP) and enforce the

"One Health" Policy. (H)

▪ Create a network of community-based rescue and first-aid services. (M)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

5.4 Water Resources

KP water resources are used by agriculture, domestic households, industries and power

generation. Tarbela, Warsak and Dargai-Jaban dams, situated in KP, are vital for hydro-electric

power generation. In KP, surface water is found in the form of springs, precipitation, lakes streams

and rivers and glaciers. Ground water can be found as aquifers and alluvial deposits.

In KP water stress has been exacerbated by reckless dumping of municipal and industrial waste

into surface-water bodies, exploitation of underground water and water intensive manufacturing

processes, with increasing pressure generated by population growth, agriculture, deforestation

and impacts of Climate Change. With losses to storage capacity of water and increasing water

stress per capita, surface water availability in KP is likely to fall.

Climate Change is likely to increase water demand for cultivation and other uses, shrink water

supplies and untreated waste dumped into the rivers can degrade water quality. Climate Change

induced shifts in snowfall and precipitation patterns are likely to increase the stress on existing

water resources. Changes in the hydrology are likely to impact the intensity, frequency and cost

of extreme events. Flooding and droughts are likely to become more frequent and severe.

Water scarcity will have a disproportionate impact on agriculture and food security. KP accounts

for 22.414% of provincial area available for cultivation (Agriculture Statistics, 2018-19). Rain-fed

farming is practiced on nearly half of the cultivatable land of the province. A decline in KP's water

availability can have serious implications for KP and adjacent provinces. This can have a

significant influence on agriculture, livestock, industry and household, resulting in monetary losses

and migration. Improved water resource management can boost agricultural land income and

reduce water scarcity.

The risk of Climate Change exacerbates the situation because water is the primary medium

through which Climate Change will threaten the livelihoods and well-being of societies. Investing

in water management contributes right now to poverty reduction and in longer term to climate

resilience and sustainable development. Water security is the cornerstone of economic growth, it

cuts across a wide range of sectors like agriculture, industry, mining, energy, domestic supplies,

health and education. The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province is endowed with vast water resources,

which are essential for basic human needs, agriculture, hydropower, industries and to sustain

aquatic environment. However, the Climate Change has impacted the water resources of the

province to a great extent, threatening the human as well as ecological sustainability.

Policy Measures

I. Water Storage and Quality

▪ Assess and address the needs for additional water storages and distribution infrastructure

and the quantity and sources of water available in the province. (H)

▪ Set up a water quality monitoring and management system, as well as enforce water

quality standards. (H)

▪ Assess climate-inclusive water availability, water use and balance (for surface and

groundwater) and identify prospective future development sites in KP. (H)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ Construct new multi-purpose small, medium and large dams. (H)

▪ Construct ponds and encourage rainwater harvesting. (H)

▪ Ensure the early rehabilitation, remodelling and up-gradation of the existing irrigation

infrastructure in order to make it more resilient to Climate Change-related extreme events.

(H)

▪ Identify hill-torrents and the development of their storage in KP. (H)

▪ Extend the life of existing reservoirs through watershed management. (H)

II. Water Conservation Strategies

▪ Promote water conservation by promoting rainwater harvesting techniques, sustainable

ground water exploitation, wastewater recycling through proper treatment and its reuse.

(H)

▪ Development of water management activities for existing irrigation systems and dams. (H)

▪ Develop contingency plans for short-term measures to adapt to water shortages that could

help to mitigate droughts and floods. (H)

▪ Reduce water losses by rehabilitating irrigation systems, water courses and sediment

removal. (M)

▪ Introduce incentives to encourage efficient water use. (H)

▪ Implement water pricing in various districts based on water availability and groundwater

situation. (H)

▪ Encouraging the use of water-saving technology, such as demand-based irrigation

systems with soil-moisture sensors and automated gates at watercourses (H)

III. Integrated Water Resource Management

▪ Preserve groundwater through management and technical measures such as regulatory

frameworks, water licensing, delay-action dams, artificial recharge, sub-surface/recharge

dams and the use of integrated water resources management concepts and practices,

particularly for threatened aquifers. (H)

▪ Introduce environment-friendly pesticides and fertilizers to reduce intrusion of toxic

compound into surface and ground water sources. (H)

▪ Assess the Climate Change impacts on water resources on regional scale, including

knowledge and strategy gaps in water resource management, spatial variability and

vulnerability characteristics (among communities, locations and eco-systems). (H)

▪ Determine best practices and techniques, including traditional knowledge. (H)

▪ Ensure wastewater recycling through proper treatment and its reuse, such as in

agriculture, artificial wetlands and groundwater recharge. (H)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ Develop local adaptation plans on pilot basis to increase resilience of local

communities in participatory mode and capacity to address critical water resources

management issues. (M)

▪ Enhance water security and climate resilience through better water resources

management in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province. (H)

▪ Build capacities of institutions and stakeholders to integrate water

security and climate resilience in development planning and decision-making processes.

(H)

▪ Improve sustainability of poverty alleviation, rural development and water resources

development projects and programs. (H)

▪ Improve livelihoods of communities at local level through pilot projects on

climate resilience with stress on agriculture and food security. (H)

IV. Legislative Framework

▪ Legislate and enforce waste management practices in the industrial and domestic sectors

to protect the environment, particularly water resources. (H)

▪ Using a participatory approach of the farmers, develop and enforce reforms, laws and

regulations required for efficient water resource management. (H)

▪ Investigate the possibility of joint water quantity, quality and watershed management of

trans-boundary catchment areas with neighbouring countries. (H)

▪ Investigate the possibility of establishing a water treaty and conducting joint research with

Afghanistan. (H)

V. Enhancing Capacity

▪ Increase investment in water sector research to improve water efficiency, identify latest

tools and technologies, develop the best financial and monitoring systems and reduce

water losses. (H)

▪ Strengthen capacities of all relevant stakeholders for monitoring, protection and

conservation of water resources. (H)

▪ Improve hydro-climate telemetry and early warning system. (H)

VI. Increasing Awareness

▪ Promote awareness on the importance of conservation and sustainable use of water

resources. (H)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

5.5 Biodiversity

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa biodiversity includes a diverse array of ecosystems and species and

provides for a wide range of ecosystem services, such as providing fresh water, regulating the

climate, inhibiting soil erosion, regulating surface runoff and providing bio-resources.

Apart from Climate Change, the biodiversity in KP Province faces major threats like deforestation,

overgrazing, soil erosion, salinity and water logging, non-sustainable agricultural practices and

hunting. It is predicted, however, that, in future, Climate Change will be the single biggest driver

of biodiversity loss next to land-use change

Climate Change affects a range of environmental factors such as temperature and moisture, which

in turn affect species habitat and health. Some species are more adaptive, but, for others, a

changing environment is a threat to their ability to survive and therefore threatens their existence.

Efforts so far to address threats to biodiversity have mainly been in terms of management of

protected areas for the preservation of flora and fauna in their natural state. The protected areas

(Figure 4) including wildlife sanctuaries and game reserves spanning over 1.05 million hectares

attract vast varieties of migratory species every year and they face similar threats to their survival

including Climate Change. There are six national parks, three wildlife sanctuaries, 38 game

reserves, 22 private game reserves,84 community game reserves, two wildlife refuges and eight

wildlife parks in KP Province

According to the Wildlife Department in KP Province

, impacts of Climate Change are being

observed which affect both migratory and indigenous flora and fauna. These include:

▪ Land degradation due to extreme weather events, natural hazards and soil erosion that

causes loss of soil fertility and agricultural productivity.

▪ Changes in water quality and quantity in inland freshwaters.

▪ Degradation of vegetation in watersheds due to Climate Change.

▪ Changes in terrestrial, inland, wetland and fisheries systems, their species and ecosystem

services, due to changes in rainfall regimes, rising temperatures and natural hazards such

as earthquakes and floods.

▪ Changes in growth rates, reproduction and geographic ranges of species and penology of

plants due to climatic changes.

Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (2005) Synthesis Report

Information received from KP Wildlife Department as part of the consultative process adopted for development of this Policy

Information received from Wildlife Department as part of consultation process for development of this Policy

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

Figure 4: Protected Areas of KP, Source: Wildlife Department KP

(Newly merged districts have not been mapped)

In December 2019, the Government of Pakistan launched its highly innovative 'Ecosystem

Restoration Initiative (ESRI)' to support the transition to an environmentally resilient Pakistan by

mainstreaming adaptation and mitigation through ecologically targeted initiatives. This initiative

also established an independent, transparent and comprehensive financial mechanism in

Pakistan called the "Ecosystem Restoration Fund (ESRF)" to fund the projects and programs

under the initiative. This fund will aid Pakistan's transition to climate compatible development. The

fund's present initiatives include afforestation, biodiversity conservation, marine conservation,

eco-tourism promotion and electric vehicle.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

In addition, the Government of Pakistan launched the "Protected Areas Initiative" in 2020.

The main goal of the initiative is to create 15 model protected areas across the country and

expand protected areas to cover at least 15% of Pakistan's area by 2023. Furthermore,

biodiversity conservation will be boosted through proper management plans, legislative

interventions and standardized eco-infrastructure designs.

Policy Measures:

▪ Establish and manage protected areas and increase their resilience for sustainable

benefits of present and future generations, ensuring complementary schemes to mitigate

adverse impacts on livelihoods of local communities. (H)

▪ Explore funding opportunities through recently launched initiatives such as Ecosystem

Restoration Fund (ESRF) and Protected Areas Initiative. (H)

▪ Develop mechanisms to incentivize local communities to forge certain uses of land to be

protected and to contribute to protection of such land. (H)

▪ Negotiate and agree on proper management of the protected areas and revise trophy

hunting rules to further improve the transparency, governance and equitable sharing of

resources among the communities. (H)

▪ Establish nature reserves, botanical gardens and gene banks in all the districts for

recreational needs and educational purposes and increase awareness and strengthen

capacities of relevant institutions, NGOs, CSOs, communities and nature conservationists

for conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. (M)

▪ Improve understanding of the Climate Change impacts on biodiversity and monitor the

impact on biodiversity due to the changing climate. (H)

▪ Facilitate ecosystem-based adaptation

of biodiversity to Climate Change by increasing

– in particular – the resilience of the protected areas and of fisheries. (H)

▪ Ensure implementation of hygiene regulations regarding aquatic habitats i.e., rivers, lakes,

streams etc. (M)

▪ Ensure proper management and mitigation of invasive species that are spreading as a

result of Climate Change. (H)

▪ Ensure the use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to control pests (such as locust).

(H)

▪ Ensure that current protected area coverage is expanded and that these protected areas

are fully functional with an appropriate ecological management plan to ensure future

ecosystem sustenance. (H)

Ecosystem based adaptation provides a cost-effective strategy that can be undertaken by parties and is especially effective at

local levels with community involvement. Ecosystem-based adaptation may also contribute to Climate Change mitigation through the

preservation or sequestration of carbon

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

5.6 Land and Vulnerable Eco-systems (Mountain Areas, Pastures, Arid and

Semi-arid Areas, Wetlands, Rangelands)

Ecosystems provide valuable goods and environmental services for social and economic

wellbeing. KP's natural ecosystems are experiencing degradation due to anthropogenic pressures

and aggravation in the impacts of the Climate Change manifested by increase in extreme weather

events and glacial melt, resulting in Glacier Lakes Outburst Floods (GLOFs).

The agro-biodiversity has suffered seriously due to introduction of high-yield varieties of food and

cash crops and use of agrochemicals. The major threats to terrestrial ecosystems are from

overgrazing and deforestation due to increasing population pressure and poverty. Deserts in KP

may expand. Due to prolonged droughts and extreme weather conditions, certain areas of KP in

the southern districts may develop desert characteristics in the long run, while characteristics of

cold deserts may arise in certain northern districts of KP.

In KP rangelands play an important role in Climate Change mitigation as they store and sequester

large amount of CO2 in the form of biomass and organic matter. Rangelands are very important

for rural livelihoods and ecological stability of the province.

Policy Measures

▪ Identify vulnerable ecosystems in KP Province and take measures to increase their

resilience to changing climate while encouraging sustainable use of such ecosystems. (H)

▪ Map and monitor glacier lakes using remote-sensing data, techniques and state of the

art tools in conjunction with field expeditions. (H)

▪ Assess potential risks in GLOFs prone areas and developing adequate remedial measures

to save people and ecosystems. (H)

▪ Establish Early Warning System (EWS) in potentially hazardous lakes and ensure its

sustainability. (H)

▪ Create and maintain a sustainable community-based disaster response and risk

management system to deal with the impacts of GLOFs. (H)

▪ Impart trainings and drills periodically to the community regarding mitigation of GLOFs. (H)

▪ Enhance work on Lake Breach Modelling (LBM). (H)

▪ Conduct a Climate Change impact assessment in mountain areas to identify future

potential for agricultural development due to extended high temperature periods in cold

areas. (H)

▪ Establish Solid Waste Management (SWM) system to preserve nature and the ecosystem

of mountain areas. (H)

▪ Avoid farming on steep slopes with high-delta crops. (H)

▪ Ensure slope stabilization during developmental projects such as road construction. (H)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ Promote eco-tourism as opposed to traditional forms of tourism restricting commercial

activities to ensure assimilative capacities of vulnerable ecosystems are maintained and

improved. (H)

▪ Restrict commercial activities such as illegal timber trade and other

developmental activities that are harmful to mountain ecology with community

participation. (H)

▪ Establish coordination between relevant and appropriate stakeholders particularly forest,

wildlife, irrigation and livestock departments for efficient management of ecosystems

including rangelands, wetlands and other resources while ensuring the rights of the

indigenous people. (H)

▪ Revive threatened ecosystems such as rangelands and enhance ecosystems by creating

artificial wetlands wherever secondary water resources are available or rain harvesting is

possible and by increasing grasslands in waterlogged zones. (H)

▪ Recognize the role played by wetlands in natural disaster protection and ensure controlled

conversion of wetlands and their immediate surroundings for agriculture and grazing

purposes. (M)

▪ Generate financial resources and take the necessary steps to establish a Provincial

Ecosystem and Rangeland Management Fund. (M)

▪ Take measures for promotion of rangeland research technology and development in KP.

(M)

▪ Encourage glacier related research, such as glacier mass balance and the effects of black

carbon on glacier health. (H)

▪ Conduct Surveys to identify rangeland areas through GIS and Remote Sensing

technology. (H)

▪ Trace potentially harmful weeds (such as Parthenium) and propose/implement protective

measures. (H)

5.7 Disaster Preparedness

KP is prone to multiple and frequent disasters of various types, predominantly floods, due to its

geographical and topographical conditions and droughts in some areas. Climate Change is

making the occurrence of extreme climatic events more frequent. According to data compiled by

the Federal Flood Commission, the combined flow of River Swat and Kabul reached a new record

level of 400,000 cusecs in 2010 compared to the previous figure of 250,000 cusecs recorded in

1929.

The increased frequency of flash floods and floods is anticipated to result in surface runoff,

avalanches, riverbank cuttings, soil erosion and landslides, causing damage to properties, roads,

houses and agricultural fields. The recent floods witnessed in the month of August 2022,

inundated crops, demolished infrastructure and resulted in mass migration/displacement across

the province.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

Policy Measures

▪ Develop a Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Policy to ensure the implementation

of the Sendai Framework and National DRR Policy (2013), with a focus on climate-induced

extreme events and disasters. (H)

▪ Clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each concerned department, emphasizing

supervisory roles for public servants and representatives (at the local and provincial levels)

during natural disasters to strengthen coordination and build their capacities to adequately

plan for and respond to the impacts of extreme weather events. (H)

▪ Develop Nature-based Solutions (NbS) for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). (H)

▪ Conduct climate-inclusive Multi-Hazard Vulnerability and Risk Assessment (MHVRA)

studies on district-level. (H)

▪ Improve the early warning system inclusive of potential Climate Change hazards. (H)

▪ Update and revise building codes in response to recent disasters and Climate Change.

(H)

▪ Create evacuation plans with consideration for women, children, disabled and elder-

people. (H)

▪ Carry out hazard and risk mapping of existing infrastructure for telecommunications,

power, utilities, transportation, irrigation and agriculture and improve their resilience

against Climate Change, earthquakes, landslides, avalanches, GLOFs and other

disasters. (H)

▪ Strengthen forecasting, monitoring, early warning systems and evacuation planning for

extreme weather events, for both humans and biodiversity (including livestock and

fisheries), giving due focus to planning for vulnerable human population: old, children,

disabled and women; ensuring community participation in the development process of

such plans. (H)

▪ Maintain accurate records of seasonal patterns, temperature and precipitation for each

agro-ecological zone and use this data and information to project Climate Change

scenarios. (M)

▪ Develop an ‘assessment and compensation mechanism’ including insurance of losses and

damages in the aftermath of disasters and measures for rehabilitation. (M)

▪ Plan, design, construct and strengthen appropriate flood embankments, dykes, protective

bunds to protect flood plains and populations in view of likely floods. (H)

▪ Design, construct and upgrade disaster resilient multi-purpose buildings in relatively safer

areas to use as shelter during natural calamities. (H)

▪ Ensure storm drainage system in major cities for intense rainfall events. (H)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

5.8 Socio-economic Measures (Poverty and Gender, Marginalized People

Youth Role)

5.8.1 Poverty

The rate and pattern of economic growth is a critical element in poverty eradication and, climatic

factors can have a powerful bearing on both. Rapidly growing population, poverty and Climate

Change impacts are some of the key drivers that lead the process of desertification and land

degradation causing significant threats to food and economic security.

The percentage of people living below the poverty line in KP is estimated to be 39%, much higher

than the national level. Poverty is concentrated in rural areas where more than 80% of KP’s

population lives. A large proportion of the population lives on or slightly above the poverty line and

the vulnerability of this group worsens in the event of a natural disaster. An internal or external

crisis including impacts of changing climate may push these people deeper below the poverty line.

Policy Measures

▪ Mainstream climate-poverty nexus in provincial planning, such as in Poverty Reduction

Strategies (PRS), provincial population planning strategies and programs and annual

budgetary planning. (H)

▪ Identify and strengthen communities at risk due to the impacts of Climate Change. (H)

▪ Conduct research to analyze the impact of Climate Change on poverty and on the

development potential of province. (H)

▪ Improve governance, Policy and decision-making processes, which can have a critical

bearing on the way in which policies and institutions respond to the impact of climatic

factors on the poor. (M)

▪ Improve awareness and access of poor communities to appropriate technologies for

climate smart agriculture, energy and industrial development. (M)

▪ Share knowledge of local agricultural practices, yields, landholding size and other relevant

information with departments responsible for social welfare, safety nets and poverty

alleviation, to make poor agricultural households more resilient. (H)

▪ Investigate, plan for and implement measures on climate induced migration as it primarily

affects populations in the low-income group. (M)

▪ Enforce the implementation of SDGs in social-sector project planning, particularly SDG 13

and strengthen the capacities of the stakeholders (line-departments). (H)

5.8.2 Gender

While a large number of poor, rural women depend on climate sensitive resources for survival and

their livelihoods, they are also less likely to have the education, opportunities, inclusion in decision-

making process and access to resources they need to adapt to the changing climate. Women’s

vulnerability to Climate Change differs from men and Climate Change interventions that are not

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

gender-responsive often result in deepening the existing gender divide. There has been little

progress towards bridging the gender gap in recent years.

However, Pakistan's revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) include a specific plan

and strategy for involving youth and women in greater climate action. The Govt of KP and its

leadership have expressed a commitment to gender equity and women’s empowerment

(Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 2014). To this effect, the government has set up the

Provincial Commission on the Status of Women (KP-CSW) and revived the Women’s

Parliamentarians Caucus.

Policy Measures

▪ Incorporate gender perspective in development, climate adaptation and mitigation

planning. (H)

▪ Ensure that women are less vulnerable to the impacts of Climate Change, particularly in

connection to their vital roles in the community, particularly in rural regions, for water,

energy, food, storage activities, pesticide handling and livestock management. (H)

▪ Evaluate the Climate Change impacts on gender in KP. (H)

▪ Create guidelines for gender-inclusive climate-change-related Policy and decision-

making. (H)

▪ Incorporate gender and Climate Change into school and college curricula. (H)

▪ Plan opportunities for gender roles to mitigate the negative effects of Climate Change. (H)

▪ Ensure equitable participation of women during every stage of decision-making process

on Climate Change mitigation and adaptation initiatives, using the local and indigenous

knowledge of women to improve their welfare. (H)

▪ Develop gender-sensitive indicators related to adaptation to evaluate and monitor

vulnerability of women to climate impacts and to address it accordingly. (M)

▪ Establish coherence among the institutions dealing with issues of Climate Change,

gender, human rights, population planning and health Policy. (H)

▪ Enhance capacity of women on responding disasters in an effective way. (H)

5.8.3 Youth Role

The Paris climate agreement, to keep global temperature below 2 Degrees Celsius, was reached

in year 2015 at COP21

. The agreement signed by more than 175 nations, includes national

plans for embarking on the economic and social transformation from reliance on fossil fuels to

using cleaner energy sources. The Paris Agreement has raised a big global hope in particular for

the young generation, who will have to face Climate Change effects for a long-term and developed

a White Paper to keep momentum going. In this connection, engaging young professionals and

building their capacity to bring about positive changes in the society has become crucial. Youth

could play a crucial role in combating Climate Change. The young generation inhabits the Earth

and inherits the responsibility to protect the planet, in fighting against Climate Change. Educating

Conference of the Parties (COP21)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

youth is one of the most effective tools to combat the destructive potential of Climate Change and

cultivate an international understanding among members of the next generation.

Youth are enthusiastic, innovative, quick learner and easily can adapt the low-carbon lifestyles

and career choices as a part of their daily lives. However, it is the youth of the country who are

going to suffer the most in future from impacts of Climate Change. Asia is home to 738 million

young people and 61 percent of the world's youth but before the youth gets ready to take concrete

steps, they need support to build their capacity and develop diverse knowledge about Climate

Change. This requires appropriate education and relevant trainings. More efforts must be made

to ensure that young people are ready to take advantage of new environment-oriented

employment opportunities. Growing attention to Climate Change and sustainable development

offers an ideal opportunity for green economic growth around the world. Green jobs not only

provide much needed employment opportunities for youth, they also give young people an outlet

to contribute directly in collective way to the fight against Climate Change by adopting green

behaviors/strategies in the social, national and workplace as well.

Climate Change now has become a global challenge which is going to affect everyone in every

corner of the globe. Governments would have to take strict measures to curb Climate Change and

to prevent disasters.

Policy Measures

▪ Involve youth in the decision- making in like formulation of adaptation & mitigation

strategies on Climate Change at local and provincial level. (H)

▪ Promote opportunities for youth groups to engage in and benefit from, KP’s adaptation and

mitigation initiatives. (H)

▪ Raise awareness among youth to play role, how to combat Climate Change through

mitigation and adaptation practices. (H)

▪ Establish Community based Organizations (CBOs) consisting young volunteers focusing

on Climate Change adaptation practices. (H)

▪ Involve academia and youth organizations in Climate Change mitigation and adaptation

trainings and capacity building. (H)

▪ Develop projects on pilot basis to motivate youth at optimum level to

play active role in the spreading the information and knowledge regarding Climate Change

in the backward areas of the province. (M)

▪ Involve Media including Electronic, Social & Print in all activities of youth for boosting up

their role in combating Climate Change. (H)

▪ Evaluate the effects of Climate Change on youth and employment in KP. (H)

▪ Prepare guidelines for youth inclusiveness in climate-change related Policy and decision-

making. (H)

▪ Incorporate youth and Climate Change into college curricula. (H)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

6. CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION

As compared to international standards, Pakistan's per capita greenhouse gas (GHG)

emissions are low. In 2017-18, Pakistan's total GHG emissions were 490 million tonnes of CO

eq.

The agriculture, forestry and land use sectors account for about 46 percent of GHG emissions in

Pakistan, followed by the energy sector (45 percent), industrial processes (5 percent),

emissions and waste (4 percent) (National GHG inventory 2017-18).

At the 'UN Climate Ambition Summit' in December 2020, the Prime Minister, in his speech, has set

the direction of Pakistan's pathway to decarbonizing the country's economy. He declared that by

2030, 60 percent of the energy produced in the country will be clean and through renewable

resources, thirty percent of all vehicles in the country will be electric and that Pakistan will no

longer establish imported coal power plants. These broad statements in addition to a “Ten Billion

Tree Tsunami Afforestation Initiative” can provide the country’s blueprint for decarbonization and

accomplishment of NDCs targets.

Therefore, the KP government will need to plan the targets that will help in achieving the NDCs

targets.

6.1 Energy

The energy sector in KP Province holds great importance in terms of electricity supply for the

entire country due to its hydel power stations. Other provinces in Pakistan have rather limited

primary energy resources, particularly potential sites for hydel power generation and depend to a

large extent on the energy produced in KP Province. Because of continued and rapid growth in

population, urbanization and industrialization in recent years, the demand for electricity has

increased more than its production resulting in a serious energy crisis. Due to economic growth

and increase in population the electricity demand is further expected to rise in Pakistan to 40,000

MW by 2020

and onwards. This will put further pressure on the province to cater to additional

energy needs of the country.

Energy generation is the most significant contributor to GHGs emissions with vast majority of

these emissions coming from the combustion of fossil fuel (oil, gas, coal), while energy

consumption is a reliable indicator of economic development. Planning for energy is required in

order to overcome energy shortages, to develop indigenous energy resources for sustainable and

affordable energy and to reduce GHG emissions.

Policy Measures

▪ Develop a provincial energy Policy on the use of indigenous renewable energy resources

to reduce dependency on imported fossil fuels, which can include hydropower, solar, wind,

geothermal energy, waste to energy, bio-energy and indigenously produced natural gas.

(H)

▪ Provide an enabling political, regulatory and financial environment for uptake of renewable

energy, particularly for population of remote areas. (H)

Pakistan Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA) cited in Economic Survey 2014-2015 by Ministry of Finance

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ Implementation of WAPDA's recently announced "Green Bond" for energy development.

(H)

▪ Assess GHG emissions resulting from proposed and adopted energy strategies and plans

and integrate this information in future energy planning. (H)

▪ Promote the use of solar water heating technologies to replace traditional natural gas

fuelled water heating systems, in residential, commercial and industrial buildings. (M)

▪ Capitalize on the opportunities presented by engaging private sector on renewable energy

production and uptake. (M)

▪ Promote research on low carbon and renewable energy sources, technologies and on the

feasibility and cost-effectiveness of available sources. (H)

▪ Increase the effectiveness of existing financial support mechanisms and provide further

incentives such as carbon taxes, subsidies and feed-in-tariffs and tax reforms for switching

to renewable energy. (M)

▪ Promote zero emission building designs such as Passivhaus

especially for public sector

that have minimal non-renewable energy requirements. (M)

▪ Develop capacities and knowledge of relevant stakeholders, including government

departments and local technicians for adoption, smooth operations and maintenance of

renewable energy technologies. (M)

▪ Promote and improve access to technology for Waste Heat Recovery, Co-generation and

Combined Cycle Power Generation. (M)

▪ Promote and subsidize energy innovations such as net metering, domestic solar

installations, smart grids to encourage renewable energy adoption and development. (H)

▪ Encourage and mobilize local and foreign investment in renewable energy markets

through the provision of incentives and support. (H)

▪ Develop regulatory frameworks to encourage off-grid renewable energy development,

such as micro and mini hydro-power projects, in rural and remote areas. (H)

▪ Restrict timber harvesting and wood burning, as well as offering alternative energy

options to mountain cold regions. (H)

6.2 Energy Efficiency and Energy Conservation

Energy efficiency has a large potential to reduce GHGs emissions at low cost and to reduce the

demand for energy ensuring sufficient energy supply is diverted to achieving economic

development goals. Economically efficient use of energy causes less environmental impacts

required for electricity generation, better health from improved heating or cooling and energy

security protecting access to energy resources.

The term passive house (Passivhaus in German) refers to a rigorous, voluntary standard for energy efficiency in a building,

reducing its ecological footprint. It results in ultra-low energy buildings that require little energy for space heating or cooling.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

Policy Measures

▪ Establish the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority

(KPEECA) and enforce energy conservation rules and regulations. (H)

▪ Promote uptake of energy efficient technologies and measures particularly for industries

and strengthen the strategic and legal framework necessary for energy efficiency

improvement in energy end-use sectors. (H)

▪ Link up the energy efficiency and conservation concept within the existing legislative

regime especially exploring the possibility of integration with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Environmental Protection Act (2014) and building codes and enact new legislation as

necessary for energy efficiency and conservation. (H)

▪ Conduct research and energy audits to identify energy use by different sectors

(commercial, industrial, residential) within KP and their relevant conservation potential. (H)

▪ Raise awareness on energy saving options including maximum use of natural day light,

better insulation and use of energy efficient lighting and appliances and promote energy

conservation through mass awareness campaigns. (M)

▪ Improve access to financing and provide financial incentives for energy efficiency practices

and projects by coordination within government and with the financial sector. (M)

▪ Develop and implement energy efficiency standards for devices and appliances. (M)

▪ Encourage energy efficiency and management initiatives that include innovative energy

efficiency mechanisms and techniques in various sectors, particularly power generation,

transportation, industry, biomass and waste. (H)

▪ Subsidize projects that promote energy efficiency and conservation. (H)

▪ Reduce line losses through better management and updated technologies. (H)

▪ Improve energy efficiency through standardizing building and construction codes

and creating incentives for retrofitting, maximum use of natural light, improved insulation

and the use of energy-efficient lights, boilers, appliances and groundwater pumping

machines. (H)

6.3 Transport

The transport sector is a key economic sector, as well as a large and growing GHG emitter. The

sector constitutes 10% of country's gross domestic product and provides 11 percent of the

economic activity in the province (Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 2009). An efficient

transport system with modern infrastructure will further improve the economic factor of production.

Govt of KP has created an independent transport department to develop the sector and to

implement the Comprehensive Development Strategy 2010 - 2017.

Globally the transport sector contributes to a quarter of GHG emissions originating from energy

consumption. Most of the sector emissions originate from road transportation. These emissions

from road transportation are expected to increase to 90.17 Giga-tons of CO

by 2030 (Sanchez-

Triana, 2013). In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over 96% of passengers and 90% of freight travels by

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

road. Demand for road transport has been expanding at a rate much greater than economic

development as a whole. On the other hand, majority of the population does not use private

transport and have to use the existing public transport which is not easily accessible, reliable or

safe. Shifting investments to other alternate forms of transportation and strengthening the existing

transport sector would complement efforts of the Govt of KP for achievement of public service

delivery improvement, socio- economic growth and, poverty and GHG emissions reduction.

Policy Measures

▪ Create a transport sector GHG emissions inventory at the district level. (H)

▪ Ensure that the National Electric Vehicles Policy (NEVP)-2020 is taken into consideration

for transportation development planning. (H)

▪ Encourage the use of electric and hybrid vehicles, followed by CNG-powered vehicles. (H)

▪ Plan and design mass transit systems. (H)

▪ Encourage the usage of public transportation. (H)

▪ Improve the existing road infrastructure to reduce GHG emissions. (H)

▪ Regulate vehicle testing and emissions standards. (H)

▪ Minimize the conflict points and optimize the traffic signals to reduce the delay time

leading to the GHG emissions reduction. (H)

▪ Standardize and enforce the use of high-quality fuels. (H)

▪ Construct and renovate bicycle and pedestrian paths to encourage cycling and walking.

(H)

▪ Ensure the use of recycled water at car-wash facilities. (H)

▪ Build and promote an efficient railway system in the province to mitigate GHG emissions.

(H)

▪ Take into consideration Climate Change impacts in transport sector related planning. (H)

▪ Develop and implement strategies to promote a clean energy mix, low-carbon

transportation technologies and low-carbon transportation modes such as mass transit

and hybrid cars, as well as non-motorized modes such as cycling and walking. (H)

▪ Develop and enforce vehicle emission standards. In particular, encourage use of energy

efficient transportation to reduce GHG emissions using principles such as vehicle fitness

testing. (H)

▪ Provide financial, political and infrastructural enabling environment for energy efficient and

low-carbon transport. (H)

▪ Conduct research to increase knowledge on current transport activity and related GHGs

emissions, feasibility and cost-effectiveness of low carbon technologies and transportation

modes. (H)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ Strengthen capacities in the province for improvement of transport efficiency, assessment

of sustainability of transport modes and application of transport mitigation methodologies.

(M)

▪ Explore opportunities and platforms for accessing domestic and international finance

available for sustainable and low-carbon transport via carbon markets, climate funds and

interested donors. (M)

▪ Explore the feasibility for use of clean fuels such as bio-fuel and compressed/liquefied

natural gas in the transport sector. (H)

▪ Explore and conduct feasibility studies to develop use of inland waterways transport. (M)

▪ Develop and adopt strategies for public transport management system (buses) in urban

areas. (M)

▪ Adopt and develop polices to reduce travel demand by providing facilities at walking

distance i.e. Health, Education, Shopping and other entertainments. (M)

6.4 Waste

Solid waste comprises of municipal, industrial, hazardous, construction, packaging, agricultural

and electrical and electronic equipment waste. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, municipal solid waste is

estimated to be between 0.4 and 0.6 kilograms per day per capita. Nearly 40% of the waste

generated is not disposed properly and ends up in streets and public spaces (Environmental

Protection Agency, 2009). This creates a host of problems including environmental degradation,

pollution of water and soil, exposure of humans and animals to toxins and air pollution.

Poor sanitation is a serious environmental health risk in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Wastewater from

households, rural and urban, is discharged untreated into the open. The untreated wastewater

pollutes the soil and underground water. This problem is particularly deleterious with respect to

health and environment in rural areas where open defecation increases the exposure to human

excretions (Planning and Development Department, 2021).

Lack of effective waste management systems is one of the biggest challenges being faced by the

Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa at the moment. Weak waste management systems and

increasing urban sprawl have exacerbated the waste management issues already faced by

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Without Proper incinerators solid waste burning contributes to smog which

is a serious environmental issue. Solid waste collection and disposal practices across the province

need attention, especially in tourist districts of Hazara (Planning and Development Department,

2011

Policy Measures

▪ Develop provincial solid waste standards for waste storage, collection, transport, treatment

and disposal, in line with air and water standards and ensure their implementation by all

sub-sectors of the economy including any commercial activity, construction, industry and

agriculture. (H)

▪ Implement the Sustainable Consumption and Production National Action Plan (SCP-NAP)

at the provincial level to achieve sustainable city goals. (H)

Planning and Development Department (2011) Economic Growth Strategy, Government of KP

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ Develop proper collection, storage, transport and disposal system for municipal waste and

wastewater and involve private sector in implementation of the system. (H)

▪ Endorse segregated collection at source and recyclable, composite and biodegradable

waste disposal and re-use. (H)

▪ Develop and enforce plastic-use guidelines and restrictions. (H)

▪ Promote the use of biodegradable plastic bags and their recycling. (H)

▪ Ensure treatment of solid waste and wastewater. (H)

▪ Formulate certified waste management systems for solid, hazardous and e-waste. (M)

▪ Identify industries and sectors producing hazardous waste and e-waste and monitor

implementation of waste management systems for waste production, transportation and

disposal. (M)

▪ Raise awareness about hazardous waste and inform all stakeholders of its toxic nature

and impacts. (M)

▪ Conduct feasibility for waste-to-energy projects and promote the use of agricultural waste

as industrial fuel. (H)

6.5 Industries

Industries in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province have a significant contribution to economic growth.

The sector contributes 13.5% to provincial GDP

, generates employment and supplies some of

the basic necessities through a competitive manufacturing sector.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has an extensive agriculture-based industry that produces various products

including tea, tobacco, match boxes, vegetable ghee and sugar. About 78% of national marble

production, 27% of cement production and 20% of mining activities take place in KP province.

There are approximately 12000 small, medium and large industrial units in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

out of which, 1821 are functioning and registered with the Directorate of Industries, Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa

The industrial sector is faced with many challenges which include shortage of electricity and lack

of infrastructure. Changing climate and its impacts render additional set of challenges on

industries when faced with extreme temperatures and climate induced temperatures particularly

those that affect production or supply of raw materials.

Policy Measures:

▪ Mainstream Climate Change considerations in KP Industrial Policy 2016 to ensure a

climate resilient and compatible industrial sector is developed. (H)

▪ Relocate industries away from the urban hubs, wherever possible. (H)

▪ Facilitate the use of latest technology, methods and tools such as in the brick kilns (e.g.

conversion to zig zag) and chip board industries for reducing GHG emissions. (H)

▪ Prepare and enforce regulations for reducing GHG emissions in industries. (H)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Board of Investment and Trade [Investment Guide]. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa the Unrevealed Story

Bureau of Statistics (2015). Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in Figures 2015

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ Enforce voluntary emissions monitoring in all industries where GHG emissions are

produced. (H)

▪ Prepare GHG emissions profile of all the industrial zones of the province. (H)

▪ Provide incentives to encourage industries to embrace low-emission technologies, such

as dual-functional materials for Carbon Capture, Usage and Storage (CCUS). (H)

▪ Create opportunities for industry to help with the transition to a circular economy model

and to increase market demand for recycled products. (H)

▪ Provide evidence and information on GHG production and GHG reduction potential in

industrial sector. (H)

▪ Design incentives (financial and non-financial) to encourage GHG reduction, lowering

energy intensity as well as renewable-energy based energy production systems in

industries. (H)

▪ Conduct energy audits and promote energy efficiency measures in industries. (H)

▪ Promote and improve access to GHG emission reduction and capture technologies such

as Coal Bed Methane Capture and Carbon Capture and Storage. (M)

▪ Encourage cleaner production and propagate ‘circular economy’ concept for efficient use

of resources based on UNEP’s Sustainable Consumption and Production guidelines. (M)

6.6 Urban Planning

Govt. of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa wants to improve the access of public services in urban areas of

the province having a population of 5,875,294, which is about 17% of the total population (Census-

2017). These services include water, sanitation, drainage, streets and public infrastructure. Urban

planning is of paramount importance to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as the rate of migration, both rural

to urban and urban to urban, is expected to rise. Spatial planning and management of urban land

can help to reduce the number of environmental problems. Water supply, sewage and sanitation,

drainage, vehicular emissions and solid waste management are amongst the top priority

measures for urban planning for Govt. of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Unplanned urban development is

likely to increase the environmental degradation in urban centers. It can increase water scarcity,

exacerbate energy crisis, increase air pollution and produce social issues like crime and violence.

Moreover, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) needs to be conducted before the

construction of road networks, spatial planning and management of urban land.

For the fulfillment of these purposes Govt. of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has initiated Community

Infrastructure Program (CIP II), the provincial Urban Development Project (see National Urban

Development Policy - NUDP) and the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Project (RWSSP). Water

conservation is a priority in urban planning since poor maintenance and construction results in

high water losses.

Policy Measures

▪ Assess the hazards, vulnerabilities and threats posed by Climate Change in urban areas.

(H)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ Promote urban forestation and plantation. (H)

▪ Relocate hazardous industries from urban areas. (H)

▪ Develop laws and regulations to manage urbanization and to prohibit conversion of land

from one particular use to another. (H)

▪ Promote vertical growth, mixed land use, development of open spaces, efficient transport

system, horticulture and landscaping and installation of energy efficient street lighting

systems. (H)

▪ Develop and strengthen urban Policy and planning institutions including city development

agencies for improved urban planning, land use planning for commercial, residential and

industrial activities and resource mobilization. (H)

▪ Ensure provision of education, health, waste management, water and sanitation and

hygiene facilities particularly in urban slums. (H)

▪ Upgrade areas with high cultural, social and economic value in cities including historical

architecture, slums, parks etc. (M)

▪ Develop, revise and update master plans for major cities to prepare for contingencies like

climate-induced migration and reduce risks from extreme temperatures, minimizing the

heat island effect, where possible, in new settlements. (H)

▪ Ensure all urban planning is informed by appropriate Disaster Risk Reduction

(DRR).(H)

6.7 Carbon Sequestration and Forestry

Forests can act as carbon sinks and help to reduce the amount of carbon in the atmosphere by

absorbing carbon dioxide. Removing forests can reduce the amount of carbon dioxide

sequestered. Forests contain substantial carbon in the soil, trees and other vegetation and are a

key component in maintaining the GHG balance. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province has great

mitigation potential to sequester carbon via afforestation and reforestation as highlighted by its

provincial initiatives

Policy Measures

▪ Limit deforestation and reduce GHG emissions associated with forestry operations. (H)

▪ Increase carbon sinks by afforestation, reforestation and the establishment of new forests

on abandoned agricultural land or other non-forested regions utilizing indigenous species

while avoiding non-native and invasive species. (H)

▪ Estimate the carbon stocks in existing forests. (H)

▪ Minimize disturbance to trees during harvesting activities and help trees get re-established

faster after harvest. (M)

▪ Improve monitoring and policing of forests to curb incidence of forest fires and to reduce

the role of timber mafia in illegal felling and clearing of forest cover. (H)

Billion Trees Tsunami Afforestation Project managed by the Department of Forestry, Environment and Wildlife in Khyber

Pakhtunkhwa Province.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ Promote urban forestry to adapt to extreme temperatures and to increase carbon sinks in

cities. (M)

▪ Adopt agro-forestry, urban forestation and peri-urban forestry practices to provide

secondary carbon sinks as well as alternate sources of income, fuel, timber and food. (H)

▪ Develop programs to provide alternate fuel and livelihood options to forest dependent

communities. (H)

▪ Explore international opportunities to obtain voluntary carbon credits via afforestation and

reforestation programs such as REDD+ and the Ten Billion Trees Tsunami (TBTT). (H)

6.8 Agriculture and Livestock

Agricultural activities such as cultivation of crops and livestock contribute about 39% to national

GHG emissions

. About 83% of the population in KP is dependent on agriculture and livestock

for their income and livelihood (Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 2014). Management of

various agricultural activities can help reduce GHG emissions and contribute towards mitigating

Climate Change impacts. For Livestock sector, with feasible improvements in manure

management, energy use, feed quality and animal performance, the emissions could be reduced

by 14 to 17 percent of the baseline GHGs emissions (Source: Agriculture Department

Govt. of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa).

Policy Measures

▪ Promote indigenous agronomic techniques and latest technologies that increase carbon

residue and carbon storage in soil, such as crop rotation, re-vegetation, retaining crop

residues for accelerated decomposition in soil, avoiding row crops and deep ploughing.

(H)

▪ Adopt tillage management practices for minimal soil disturbance and reduced erosion. (H)

▪ Encourage the use of laser land-levelling to conserve future water and energy

consumption. (H)

▪ Use raised beds and intercropping to improve nitrous oxide management and reduction.

(H)

▪ Encourage the production of biogas and the digestion of manure. (H)

▪ Improve agro-forestry systems to increase carbon storage and reduce soil carbon losses

stemming from erosion by combining crops with trees for timber, firewood, fodder and

other products and establishing shelter belts and riparian zones/buffer strips with woody

species. (H)

▪ Employ integrated nutrient management techniques to reduce emissions on-site by

reducing leaching and volatile losses, improving nitrogen use efficiency through precision

farming and improving fertilizer application timing. (M)

▪ Improve water management through soil and water conservation by discouraging water

drainage and encouraging shallower water table to increase water available in root zone

National Climate Change Policy 2012

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

(Freibauer et al. 2004

); to enhance biomass production, increase the amount of above-

ground and the root biomass returned to the soil. (M)

▪ Improve grassland and grazing management by controlling intensity and timing of grazing

(e.g. stocking rate management, rotational grazing and enclosure of grassland from

livestock grazing). (H)

▪ Develop and propagate technologies for biogas production from agriculture/ livestock

wastes. (H)

▪ Develop and adopt new breeds of cattle which are more productive in terms of milk and

meat with lower methane production from enteric fermentation. (M)

▪ Encourage farmers to use appropriate feed mixes and additives to reduce methane

production from enteric fermentation/ digestion in cattle. (H)

▪ Manage water in rice paddies to control releases of methane from agricultural soil and

introduce low water delta rice varieties and fish/rice farming (M)

▪ Take measures for herd management, Improved breeding and animal health practices to

shrink the herd overhead (i.e. unproductive part of the herd) and related emissions. (M)

▪ Allocate budget & incentives for farmers to reduce the risk in case of loss and damage

caused by Climate Change. (M)

Freibauer, A., Rounsevell M., Smith P., Verhagen A., Carbon sequestration in the agricultural soils of Europe. Geoderma,

2004. 122: p. 1-23

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

7. CAPACITY BUILDING

Capacity building is essential for development. It is a process of understanding obstacles that may

inhibit communities, government, international organizations and non-government organizations

from accomplishing their development goals. Policy implementation depends essentially on the

ability of various stakeholders to understand the necessity of the Policy and how to overcome

hurdles in implementation. That can only be achieved by institutional development, including

community participation, human resource development, strengthening of management systems

and creating an enabling environment for appropriate Policy implementation. The Policy

measures recommended below are an attempt to create an enabling environment for effective

Policy implementation.

Policy Measures

I. Institutional Enhancement

▪ Assess capacity needs in order to engage stakeholders in institutional capacity

development. (H)

▪ Ensure upgradation and strengthening of institutional capacity of existing Climate Change

Cell at EPA to Directorate level. (H)

▪ Ensure climate-inclusiveness in the approval of all sectoral projects by empowering the

provincial P&DD and Climate Change Cell. (H)

▪ Establish Climate Change Cells in relevant departments, particularly Agriculture, Livestock

and Dairy Development, Irrigation, PEDO, WAPDA, Transport and FE&WD

Department.

(H)

▪ Develop and strengthen a Monitoring, Reporting and Verification (MRV) system. (H)

▪ Conduct baseline studies to assess capacity needs for conservation and resource

management of important forest species, biodiversity, wetlands and agro-ecological

zones. (M)

▪ Carry out capacity building of relevant organizations in the area on natural resource

management, conservation of biodiversity, forests, water resources, sensitive

ecosystems, risk reduction strategies and disaster preparedness. (H)

▪ Establish climate-informed preparatory and government approval systems dealing with the

life cycle of Climate Change related projects and schemes. (H)

▪ Improve capacity of government departments to develop, implement and manage projects

which increase climate resilience in vulnerable population and result in mitigation of and/or

adaptation to changing climate. (M)

▪ Conduct training of government officials and stakeholders through workshops on Climate

Change mitigation and adaptation; this could be technical or non-technical depending on

requirements and the audience involved. (H)

▪ Forge partnership with training institutions and universities for regular training workshops

for various capacity building exercises. (H)

Forestry, Environment and Wildlife Department

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ Engage stakeholders conducting projects within the region for assessing process and

outcomes of environment-friendly development. (M)

▪ Streamline Climate Change in provincial Policy documents and development projects. (H)

▪ Strengthen an enabling environment for NDC implementation. (H)

▪ Establish and maintain weather forecasting centers for research and climate modelling.

(M)

▪ Extension and capacity-building policies for Agriculture/livestock farmers can facilitate the

transfer and use of more efficient practices/technologies that are readily available. (M)

▪ Train young scientists, faculty and government officials on simulation models and

adaptation planning and clean development mechanisms. (M)

II. Awareness Raising and Education

▪ Introduce concepts of Climate Change mitigation, adaptation and Natural Resources

Management (NRM) in academic curriculums at all levels of education. (H)

▪ Mobilize and encourage young scientists and researchers to study Climate Change

impacts and risk reduction strategies as human resource development to strengthen

research and academic institutions. (H)

▪ Establish and strengthen Climate Change science related departments including

universities through financial and technical support. (M)

▪ Ensure an institutional mechanism – like formation of the Climate Change cell - to conduct

research and educate the public at large through campaigns and programs about Climate

Change impacts, mitigation and adaptation strategies. (H)

▪ Provide platforms and participate in knowledge and information sharing forums on Climate

Change. (H)

▪ Provide necessary training and support to government officials and relevant departments

regarding Climate Change impacts and development issues. (H)

▪ Support and encourage media and other relevant stakeholders in raising awareness

campaigns including the use of social media. (H)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

8. TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER

Technology transfer plays a critical role in facing the challenges of Climate Change. Although it is

mostly associated with Climate Change mitigation strategies it is equally important for Climate

Change adaptation. Technology transfer in mitigation strategies is usually restricted to specific

sectors such as energy and industries, in which reduction in carbon emissions can be measured.

However, in adaptation, technology transfer and techniques are relevant for a wide range of

sectors, such as agriculture, water, health etc. Technology transfer is not restricted to exchange

of machinery which reduces carbon emissions. It also includes indigenous coping techniques

which are important for adaptation. Moreover, adaptation techniques are less capital intensive.

Where technology pertaining to mitigation strategies can be used across countries, such as solar

powered lights, adaptation techniques are environment and region specific (UNEP, 2011).

Transfer of technology is usually from developed to developing countries as a result of

international climate negotiations which stipulate developed countries to assist developing

countries in reducing emissions, in switching to alternate energy and adapting to Climate Change

impacts. Developing countries with the help of national and international support can adopt

environmental friendly strategies and practices. Successful strategies practiced in other parts of

the country can be adopted in other regions, whereas exchange of technology within provinces

would also help to strengthen ties and pave the way for development at a national level.

Technology is vital in ensuring effective implementation of Policy recommendations for both

climate mitigation and adaptation.

Policy Measures

▪ Determine technological needs in the province for climate mitigation and adaptation by

conducting technology needs assessment. (H)

▪ Maintain records of progress/changes in technological needs. (M)

▪ Identify potential indigenous and international technologies for alternate energy sources

such as solar, water and wind energy and promote uptake of this technology for use. (H)

▪ Identify appropriate energy efficient technologies including efficient household appliances,

solar water heaters, energy efficient chillers and lights for domestic and commercial

buildings. (H)

▪ Identify potential technologies for energy efficient transportation and energy generation

systems for domestic and commercial use. (H)

▪ Develop and introduce coping techniques and technology to aid sustainable agriculture

practices and irrigation methods for water stressed conditions. (H)

▪ Promote partnership between international and national organizations whose Climate

Change adaptation technologies in agriculture, energy, transport, forestry and water can

be used in KP province. (M)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

▪ Identify opportunities for uptake of low GHG emitting technologies such as photovoltaic

power generation, natural gas turbines, biomass integrated gasification combined-cycle

generation and on-grid PV power production. (H)

▪ Promote research on GHG reduction and adaptation related technologies in universities

and in other research institutes. (H)

▪ Encourage investments from domestic and international, private and public players to pilot

projects on Climate Change mitigation and adaptation. (M)

▪ Encourage public-private collaborations for technological innovation and upscaling. (H)

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

9. CLIMATE FINANCE

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province in line with Govt of Pakistan has formulated its own specific Climate

Change Policy. Its actual goal is to strengthen the efforts of Federal Govt on the common issue

of Climate Change and further to contribute to the efforts of the global community on combating

Climate Change. Adaptation, in relevant sectors, requires ample resources which are beyond the

scope of fragile economy of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

For the effective implementation of the Climate Change Policy, the Provincial Government looks

to the Federal Government and the international community, such as the UNDP, World Bank,

Green Climate Fund and other donors, to invest in the field of adaptation and mitigation in the

province’s climate-sensitive sectors of economy. Depending on the resources allocated in the

form of an adaptation budget and a mitigation budget, Climate Change challenges can be

overcome and resilience in the province can be attained.

Allocating budget for adaptation would aid in disaster preparedness, which is the primary goal of

the Policy, as well as contribute to the efforts of the Federal Government and the global community

on SDGs, specifically Goal 13 (UNFCCC).

Policy Measures:

▪ Ensure that recently established Climate Change Budget Tagging and Tracking System in

the province is sustainable and provide Climate Change related budget expenditure

information on regular basis.

▪ Every fiscal year, a climate-specific budget must be allocated in the form of adaptation and

mitigation budget.

▪ Efforts may be undertaken to secure adaptation funds from the Federal Government,

international donors such as World Bank, Asian Development Bank, Green Climate Fund

etc.

▪ Ensure the availability of appropriate economic incentives to encourage public and private

sector investment in Climate Change adaptation and mitigation programmes.

▪ Separate section to be established either under the Planning & Development or the

Finance Department to deal with Climate Finance matters in order to keep the record and

to facilitate international investors in the field of Climate Change

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

10. IMPLEMENTATION

To guide implementation of recommended measures given in this Policy for climate mitigation and

adaptation, implementation strategies and action plans relevant to each sector and sub sectors

need to be devised. Moreover, the successful implementation of the Provincial Climate Change

Policy depends significantly on governance, planning, risk management, resources,

communication and monitoring. Some of the elements required for successful Policy

implementation are:

▪ Strong executive level support for delivery processes of the Policy, which may even include

creating a Provincial Climate Change Task Force (PCCTF) for Policy implementation;

▪ Well established stakeholders’ engagement and communication plans for all departments;

▪ Supportive legal and financial services;

▪ Implementation road map/plan for the Policy defining roles and responsibilities of relevant

departments;

▪ Risk assessment and management;

▪ Effective and timely reporting, monitoring and performance evaluation; and

▪ Gap analysis of data to ensure accurate predictions for the future (for example in the case

of weather data).

According to the National Climate Change Policy, in order to ensure effective implementation of

the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy, a "Provincial Climate Change Policy

Implementation Committee (PCCPIC

)" must be established, whose task will be to implement the

Climate Change Policy and share the status of implementation based on action plans with the

National Climate Change Policy Implementation Committee. The provincial committee must meet

at least biannually to review strategic implementation plans. The committee will share the progress

to the National Committee.

The composition recommended in National Climate Change Policy for the Provincial Climate

Change Policy Implementation Committees is as below:

▪ Secretary Forestry, Environment and Wildlife Department, Government of KP (Chairman)

▪ Secretaries to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Government: (i) Agriculture (ii) Irrigation (iii) Local

Government (iv) Transport (v) Planning & Development (vi) Law (vii) Finance (viii) Public

Health Engineering (ix) Industries, Commerce & Technical Education (x) Health (Members)

▪ Director General, Environmental Protection Agency (Member/Secretary)

▪ Director General, Provincial Disaster Management Authority (Member)

▪ One corporate sector representative, i.e. Chamber of Commerce and Industries (Member)

▪ One Civil Society Organization representative (Member)

▪ Three experts from the relevant field (Member)

The Govt. of KP has already notified PCCPIC vide notification SO (Envt)/FE&WD/2-3/2016/PCCPIC

/1920-37 dated 08-05-2017

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

APPENDIX A

Forestry, Environment & Wildlife Department highly appreciates the inputs and feedback

of the following listed stakeholders during consultations and review process of the

updated Climate Change Policy of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa-2022.

S.No

Name

Department/Organization

Miss Ayesha Bano

Member Provincial Assembly

Mr. Muhammad Abid Majeed

Secretary, FE&WD

Mr. Muhammad Anwar Khan

Director General EPA

Mr. Khuda Baksh

Special Secretary, FE&WD

Mr. Minhas Uddin

Additional Secretary, FE&WD

Mr. Adnan Jamil

Deputy Secretary, FE&WD

Miss Sanovia Kakar

KP Forestry, Environment and Wildlife

Department

Mr. Abdul Hassan

Pakistan Agriculture Research Council

Mr. Abid Zareef Khan

Zareef Khan Foundation

10.

Mr. Adil Zareef

PCAA

11.

Mr. Afsar Khan

Deputy Director Climate Change KP-EPA

12.

Miss. Zakia Javed

Deputy Director MEAs KP-EPA

13.

Mr. Fayaz Ahmad

GIS Specialist KP-EPA

14.

Syed Asif Ali Shah

Assistant Director Climate Change EPA

15.

Mr. Kausar Abbas

Environmental Economist

16.

Mr. Alam Zeb

KP Irrigation Department

17.

Mr. Ashraf

KP Chamber of Commerce & Industry

18.

Mr. Ayaz Ali

PRCS/GRC Peshawar

19.

Miss Ayesha

GIZ-SAR

20.

Dr. Rafiq

IM-Sciences Peshawar

21.

Dr. Arshad Farooq

Pakistan Agriculture Research Council

22.

Dr. Habib Jan

KP-EPA

23.

Dr. Muhammad Abid

GIZ

24.

Dr. Mohsin Farooque

KP Wildlife Department

25.

Engr. Ubaid Ullah

KP Public Health Engineering. Department

26.

Engr. Waqas Ahmad Khan

UET-Peshawar (Jalozai Campus)

27.

Mr. Fazli Ghafoor

SPO

28.

Mr. Hammad Afridi

PDMA-KP

29.

Miss Haseena

KP-Wildlife Department

30.

Mr. Hasnain Khurshid Ahmad

Sarhad Chamber of Commerce & Industry

31.

Mr. Hazrat Mir

KP-Forest Department

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022

S.No

Name

Department/Organization

32.

Mr. Kashif

SPO

33.

Mr. Muhammad Arshad

KP-EPA

34.

Miss Khadija Abid

PRCS

35.

Mr. Khalid Hussain

Pakistan Forest Institute, Peshawar

36.

Mr. Khalid Khattak

KP Irrigation Department

37.

Mr. Khurram Saeed

WWF Pakistan

38.

Mr. Muhammad Abid

PRCS

39.

Mr. Muhammad Irshad

KP-EPA

40.

Mr. Muhammad Mudassar

WWF Pakistan

41.

Mr. Muhammad Niaz

KP Wildlife Department

42.

Mr. Muhammad Osama Khan

PRCS

43.

Mr. Muhammad Ali Durrani

NDRMF

44.

Mr. Pir Muhammad Zubair

KP Transportation Department

45.

Mr. Qaswar Abbas

German Red Cross

46.

Mr. Ramzan Ali

KP-EPA

47.

Mr. M. Asif Sahibzada

Ministry of Climate Change (MoCC)

48.

Mr. Sajid Ali

PDMA-KP

49.

Mr. Salahuddin

Local Government, Elections & Rural

Development Department

50.

Mr. Shakeel Hameed

SRSP

51.

Mr. Syed Aftab Hayat

KP Chamber of Commerce & Industry

52.

Mr. Zahir Shah

Pakistan Meteorological Department

53.

Miss Zeba Gul

Dr. Zareef Memorial School

54.

Mrs. Zuhra Nigar

PDMA-KP

55.

Mrs. Amna Durrani

Director, CSW

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Climate Change Policy - 2022