COAL is considered an impediment in combating climate change and achieving sustainable development. The burning of coal emits carbon which in return burns with oxygen producing a heat trapping gas carbondioxide leading to global warming.

Moreover coal-fired plants can lead to serious health impacts such as tuberculosis to the nearby community and water pollution. A mitigation strategy is to incorporate carbon capture and storage coupled to coal plants to reduce carbon dioxide levels.

In the last few years, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has become the hope for development and strengthening of economy. It has been termed as a ‘win-win model’ for both the countries.

In order to meet the energy demand of a growing population, various coal-fired power plants are underway as part of CPEC. One of the major coal-fired power plants is already operational in Sahiwal, burning 16,667 tonnes coal each day.

No specific baseline study has been carried out till date by the agency concerned, although the minimum requirement of National Environmental Quality Standards should be met.

This year has been a year in which various countries have managed to become renewable energy champions leading to phenomenal success stories and providing hope to solve the worlds global problem: climate change.

China has gained its position to be one of the top solar countries and continues to invest in solar energy after the success of its Longyangxia Dam Solar Park and Tengger Desert Solar Park having a capacity to provide 850 megawatts and 1547 megawatts power respectively.

On the other end of the Asian continent, India has proved itself to be useful in fighting climate change by Kurnool Ultra Mega Solar Park — a project that utilises four million solar panels.

Countries such as China and India that have embraced renewable energy projects have transitioned from climate sinners to climate saviors. These countries have shown possibility of harnessing renewable energy and racing towards sustainable development for the betterment of environment and as well as community.

Pakistan renewable energy sector still is underdeveloped. However, the ideal geographical coordinates can capture solar energy uniquely since it is gifted by sunshine availability of more than 12 hours per day. This can easily supply electricity at household and commercial level.

The new government must implement environmental policies realising Pakistan’s vulnerable state towards climate change.

Halima Usman

Islamabad

Published in Dawn, August 13th, 2018