Introduction
Agriculture is the lifeblood of Pakistan’s economy, contributing about 19–20% to GDP, employing over 38% of the labor force, and feeding over 240 million people. But climate change is undermining this crucial sector, threatening food security, rural livelihoods, and national stability. Read more on FAO Pakistan.
Pakistan’s Agricultural Vulnerability
- % of GDP from agriculture: ~19.5%
- Employment in agriculture: 38–42%
- Climate vulnerability ranking: Top 10 globally (Germanwatch CRI)
- Water availability per capita: 908 m³
- Crop loss from 2022 floods: 4.4 million acres (World Bank Report)
- Rise in average temperature: +1.1°C since 1960
Main Climate-Related Risks
- Extreme Weather: Floods, droughts, heatwaves damaging crops and livestock
- Glacial Melt & Rainfall Changes: Flooding and water shortages (ICIMOD)
- Soil Degradation & Salinity: Especially in Punjab and Sindh
- Pest Outbreaks: e.g., desert locust invasions (FAO Locust Watch)
Vulnerable Communities
- 86% of farm owners are smallholders with <2 hectares (IFAD Pakistan)
- Women in agriculture often unpaid, more vulnerable
- Indigenous/traditional farmers losing climate knowledge
Impact on Key Crops
- Wheat: Delayed sowing, heat stress
- Rice: Rain-induced fungal infections
- Cotton: Temperature and pests
- Sugarcane: Drought vulnerability
- Fruits: Declining chill-hour crops in the north
Economic Impact
Climate-related disruption causes over $3 billion in annual losses. The 2022 floods alone caused $2.3 billion in crop damage, with post-harvest losses adding 15–20% more to food insecurity. Source: ReliefWeb PDNA
The Way Forward
- Climate-Smart Farming: Millet, moringa, no-till, crop rotation
- Agroforestry & Soil Conservation: Native trees, composting
- Early Warning & Training: Weather alerts, climate camps
- Water Governance: Canal lining, rain harvesting (IUCN on Water & Climate)
- Empowering Women: Leadership & land rights
- Policy Support: Crop insurance, green financing
Education & Awareness
EarthWarriorz Climate Camps are teaching youth about composting, reuse, tree planting, and sustainable farming – inspiring the next generation of agroecologists. Learn more at earthwarriorz.org.
Conclusion
Pakistan’s agriculture is on the climate crisis frontlines. Urgent action, smart policy, and grassroots leadership can build a climate-resilient food future.
🌾 Call to Action
Join EarthWarriorz.org in building climate-resilient farms.
Train. Act. Transform.