Pakistan targets 38% reduction in air pollution by 2030

Pakistan is moving to implement its 2023 National Clean Air Policy to combat severe air pollution, which has reached hazardous levels in regions like Punjab. The government plans to establish a national clean-air secretariat within the climate ministry to improve coordination between federal and provincial institutions.

The policy sets ambitious targets to reduce PM2.5 fine-particle emissions by 38% by 2030 and 81% by 2040. Priority sectors for emission reduction include transport, industry, agriculture, waste, and households. In Punjab, a $300 million clean-air program backed by the World Bank is underway to strengthen air-quality management, particularly around Lahore.

Climate Change Minister Musadik Masood Malik emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that “time is running out” and that air quality is a “primary indicator of human survival and dignity.” Current pollution levels in Punjab are estimated at approximately 52 micrograms per cubic metre, more than ten times the World Health Organization’s recommended guidelines, with annual averages in central Lahore reaching between 110 and 130 micrograms.