Decarbonization and Net-Zero Transition in Pakistan

( Vol-12,Issue-3,May - June 2026 )

Author(s): Shah Jehan

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Page No: 222-230
DOI: 10.22161/ijaems.123.20

Keywords:

Climate Change, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Renewable Energy, Decarbonization, Net Zero Emissions.

Abstract:

The crisis of climate change today is a global issue in the 21st century. In developing countries as well as others around the globe, the challenge is for countries to develop their economies while simultaneously decreasing their GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions. Pakistan is one of the least polluters of all the countries of the world whose contribution to global GHGs is less than 1%, but unfortunately Pakistan is one of the countries that is most sensitive to climate change phenomena such as rising average atmospheric temperatures, floods, droughts, glacier shrinkage, and, most importantly, energy supply insecurity. Energy transition towards renewable energy, industrial modernization, policy reforms, transportation electrification, and climate finance have been addressed in this research study as critical parameters for assessing Pakistan's journey toward decarbonization and achieving net-zero emissions. The study examines Pakistan's emissions profile, energy consumption patterns across different sectors, the vast potential of renewable energy, and the country's climate change commitments under global agreements. The report further highlights obstacles created by inadequate and ineffective institutions, financial constraints, and the lack of appropriate technology to combat climate change. In recent years, total GHG emissions in Pakistan increased from 606 MtCO2e in 2021 to 609 MtCO2e in 2022, while fossil fuel-related GHG-CO2 emissions increased from more than 200 MtCO2e in 2021 to more than 204 MtCO2e in 2022. The study demonstrates that Pakistan has enormous renewable energy potential which, if harnessed through solar and wind energy, could revolutionize the country's energy sector. To achieve the long-term aspiration of "Net Zero," a holistic and time-bound approach, coupled with energy-efficient industrial development and climate finance support through global policy and regulatory frameworks, is essential.

Received: 28 Apr 2026; Received in revised form: 27 May 2026; Accepted: 30 May 2026; Available online: 02 Jun 2026

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