Biodiversity and
Conservation
Lecture 11
CC: ENV 309
By: Fatima Imtiaz
The National Conservation Strategy (NCS) of
Pakistan
•‘‘A comprehensive framework for the sustainable use and conservation of natural resources in Pakistan.’’
•Developed in response to environmental degradation and the need for sustainable development.
History and Development
•Origins:
• The NCS was first introduced in 1992.
• Initiated by the government of Pakistan in collaboration with
international organizations.
•Key Milestones:
• Drafted by the Ministry of Environment.
• Endorsed by the government to align with global environmental
goals
• With involvement of:
• World Bank
• EU & CIDA
• The National Conservation Strategy (NCS) of Pakistan was needed for several critical reasons, driven by
the escalating environmental challenges faced by the country. Here are the key factors that made the strategy
essential:
1. Environmental Degradation
•Deforestation: Pakistan has experienced widespread deforestation due to overlogging, agricultural expansion,
and urbanization. This has led to the loss of critical forest ecosystems, contributing to soil erosion, desertification,
and loss of biodiversity.
•Soil Degradation: Soil erosion and desertification were becoming major threats to agricultural productivity and
food security, particularly in regions like Balochistan and the Sindh desert.
•Water Scarcity: Pakistan, with its growing population, was facing acute water scarcity, exacerbated by poor
management, over-extraction, and pollution of water resources. This put both drinking water and agriculture at
risk.
2. Loss of Biodiversity
•Endangered Species: The country's rich biodiversity, including species like the Indus Dolphin, Markhor, and
various migratory birds, was at significant risk due to habitat destruction, illegal poaching, and environmental
pollution.
•Ecosystem Degradation: Wetlands, forests, and coastal areas were being degraded, affecting a wide range of
flora and fauna that depended on these ecosystems.
3. Climate Change Vulnerability
•Floods and Droughts: Pakistan is highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change, with frequent flooding,
droughts, and extreme weather events that threaten the agricultural sector, public health, and infrastructure.
•Rising Temperatures: The increasing temperatures and changing precipitation patterns have impacted water
availability, food production, and overall ecological balance.
4. Pollution
•Air and Water Pollution: Industrialization and urbanization led to high levels of pollution, particularly in
cities like Karachi and Lahore. Poor waste management, industrial emissions, and vehicle exhaust fumes
severely degraded air and water quality.
•Land Pollution: Growing waste generation without adequate recycling or waste treatment facilities
contributed to land pollution and health hazards.
5. Sustainable Development Needs
•Uncontrolled Growth: Rapid urbanization, population growth, and industrial expansion were putting
immense pressure on natural resources without proper environmental management.
•Sustainable Resource Management: There was a growing need to develop a framework for managing
Pakistan’s natural resources in a way that ensured their availability for future generations.
6. Global Environmental Commitments
•International Pressure: Pakistan, as a member of the international community, needed to align its
environmental policies with global commitments, such as the Earth Summit of 1992 and other
international agreements related to conservation and sustainable development.
•Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): The NCS was also part of Pakistan’s
efforts to contribute to global goals related to environmental sustainability, biodiversity protection, and
climate action.
7. Lack of Coordination and Clear Policy Framework
•Fragmented Efforts: Prior to the NCS, environmental efforts in Pakistan were fragmented across
various sectors, with no central, coordinated strategy. There was a lack of synergy between different
governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations, and local communities.
•Policy Gaps: Pakistan lacked a comprehensive, well-structured national policy that could address
the complex environmental challenges in an integrated manner.
NCS Pakistan
Objectives of the NCS
•Sustainable Resource Management
•Promote efficient and sustainable use of natural resources like water, soil, and energy.
•Biodiversity Conservation
•Protect and conserve Pakistan’s unique biodiversity, including endangered species.
•Environmental Protection
•Prevent degradation of ecosystems such as forests, wetlands, and marine environments.
•Public Awareness and Education
•Raise awareness among citizens about environmental issues and their role in conservation.
•Climate Change Mitigation
•Address the impacts of climate change and reduce carbon emissions.
• Key Principles of the NCS
• Integrated Approach: Balancing environmental, social, and economic needs.
• Sustainable Development: Meeting present needs without compromising future generations.
• Collaboration: Involvement of stakeholders, including local communities, NGOs, and
international partners.
• Decentralization: Empowering local communities to take charge of conservation efforts.
Achievements of the NCS
•Biodiversity Conservation:
• Protection of endangered species such as the Markhor and Indus Dolphin.
• Expansion of protected areas (e.g., national parks and reserves).
•Reforestation Efforts:
• National tree plantation campaigns like the Billion Tree Tsunami.
•Community Engagement:
• Active participation of local communities in forest and wildlife management.
•Environmental Legislation:
• Strengthening of laws related to environmental protection and sustainable development.
Challenges and Obstacles
•Population Growth:
•Increased pressure on natural resources due to rapid population growth.
•Deforestation:
•Unsustainable logging and agricultural expansion leading to forest loss.
•Climate Change:
•Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate-related events such as floods and droughts.
•Pollution:
•High levels of industrial and vehicular pollution affecting air and water quality.
Future Directions
•Strengthening Implementation:
• Ensuring effective monitoring and enforcement of conservation laws.
•Enhancing Climate Resilience:
• Promoting climate-smart agriculture and renewable energy.
•Sustainable Urbanization:
• Developing eco-friendly cities with green infrastructure.
•Regional Cooperation:
• Collaboration with neighboring countries to address transboundary
environmental issues.
• The National Conservation Strategy of Pakistan provides a roadmap for preserving the
nation’s natural heritage.
• While significant progress has been made, continued efforts are needed to tackle ongoing
environmental challenges.
• Collective responsibility of the government, citizens, and international partners is crucial for
the success of conservation initiatives.
