It's common to see environmental activism in Pakistan take the form of ironic contradictions. For example, how credible is an eco-advocacy seminar, sponsored by companies with a history of environmental violations, when it condemns such practices? Or, a protest against greenhouse gas emissions might involve blocking a road, a tactic that itself generates emissions. Similarly, rallies of petrol cars or awareness walks with plastic giveaways undermine the very environmental goals they aim to promote.
In a country like Pakistan, where environmental regulations are often weak and enforcement is lax, such performative actions are often mistaken for genuine climate activism. Simply paying lip service to criticise polluting industries, inefficient regulators, and lethargic lawmakers is often seen as a significant contribution, elevating the critics to the status of climate heroes. This trend is particularly prevalent in many developing countries, including Pakistan.
The second irony is that climate activism is treated like a profession. Experienced TV anchors innocently question climate activists, asking why they've taken up this field as if it requires a specific qualification or years of experience. Additionally, anyone who participates in a few rallies or workshops quickly assumes the role of a climate savior. These individuals gradually establish themselves as the sole authorities on climate issues, labeling those who don't follow their approach as either puppets of polluters or unwitting spokespeople for ineffective regulators.
People are reluctant to join climate change awareness and advocacy campaigns due to several factors. Primarily, pressing issues like poverty, crime, energy shortages, and inflation take precedence. Additionally, many distrust climate activists, perceiving them as "doomsayers" who focus on highlighting problems rather than offering solutions. This constant emphasis on negativity and lack of hope discourages participation, leading to poorly attended rallies. Consequently, those who violate environmental regulations often dismiss such protests as insignificant, seeing them as the efforts of a small, uninfluential group.
The media also has a role to play in shaping public perception of climate activism. While the media does cover such small events, they rarely attract a wide audience. Media management and marketing teams often object to covering poorly participated programs that fail to capture the attention of advertisers. Consequently, mainstream media typically allocates less than one percent of its total publication space or broadcast time to cover such activities, which often go unnoticed.
No one would disagree that Pakistan lacks significant urban or regional climate leaders comparable to Akhtar Hameed Khan of the Orangi Pilot Project or Muhammad Ali Shah of the Fisherfolk Forum. These pioneers embodied social activism, leaving a legacy of specialised advocacy that aspiring climate activists can emulate. On the contrary, the current generation of climate leaders in Pakistan, particularly in Karachi, is full of youthful enthusiasm but often resistant to constructive criticism. They tend to work in isolation, prioritising individual projects over broader collaborations that could yield greater environmental impact. This fragmented approach empowers polluters and violators, who can operate with impunity, prioritising profit over the well-being of the planet and its inhabitants.
The unfortunate reality is that we lack dedicated, full-time climate activists. Those who are involved often have other commitments, such as full-time jobs or businesses, which may conflict with climate goals or potentially benefit from their activism
In the early 1990s, Karachi was a hub of environmentalism. Violating environmental regulations at a large scale was a daunting task, as numerous activists from diverse fields vehemently condemned such actions. They employed their expertise, such as writing columns or pursuing legal action, to hold perpetrators accountable. This climate of activism deterred potential environmental offenders. Sadly, many of these environmental stalwarts have passed away, some tragically lost their lives, while others are confined to their homes due to their old age. The current generation of aspiring climate leaders was too young to learn directly from these icons during their active years.
It's commonly understood that when someone lacks a strong argument, they often resort to emotional appeals to distract from their lack of substance. While protesting environmental issues, a leader well-versed in the subject matter is less likely to be derailed by challenging questions. However, many environmental campaigns prioritise event planning over thorough research. This often results in protests that lack insightful analysis and instead rely on generic threats and ultimatums. True advocacy requires not only physical participation but also a deep understanding of the issue, providing a solid foundation for effective persuasion.
Younger generations are also falling into this trap, mostly believing in superficial awareness and education campaigns. In Pakistan, where the climate crisis is worsening, many civil society organisations casually conduct climate training by offering financial incentives to participants. This perverse incentive structure, where individuals are paid to acquire climate knowledge, is a concerning trend. What can we expect from such ‘successful trainees’ who have completed the program for a few thousand rupees? Are they truly motivated to volunteer their time for climate causes? The answer, unfortunately, is obvious.
The unfortunate reality is that we lack dedicated, full-time climate activists. Those who are involved often have other commitments, such as full-time jobs or businesses, which may conflict with climate goals or potentially benefit from their activism. If an individual is genuinely committed to a cause, there should be no objection to paying them a fair wage. This will ensure they can focus on their work without seeking additional employment. This approach is particularly beneficial when experienced professionals join the field, regardless of their previous career paths.
True climate activism, where individuals wholeheartedly dedicate their skills, knowledge, finances, and influence to raise awareness and mobilise public support, is rare in our country. As a result, many climate change professionals are temporarily filling this gap, hoping to be replaced by well-trained and experienced climate champions. Without widespread public support, climate activism, like other social causes, risks becoming a limited endeavor, vulnerable to political and criminal interference.