The 2024 SCO Summit in Islamabad addressed the urgent issue of climate change through regional collaboration. Key focus areas included renewable energy transitions, disaster preparedness, and effective water resource management. The summit highlighted the need for long-term cooperation on green development and laid the foundation for future climate strategies, including the potential creation of a regional climate fund.

With the international community’s eyes on Islamabad, the 2024 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit presented a pivotal moment for addressing the escalating climate crisis. The SCO region, spanning from China to Central Asia, is disproportionately vulnerable to climate change’s devastating impacts, from rising temperatures and droughts to natural disasters. Against this backdrop, the summit presented a critical opportunity for member states to unite against this pressing threat.

Pakistan, as the host nation, took center stage in emphasizing the urgent need for collective action. The summit’s focus on environmental cooperation and climate resilience signaled a significant shift towards a more sustainable future for the region.

Climate Change as a Regional Priority

The summit shed light on climate change, a critical issue that poses a massive threat to the economies and ecosystems of member states. It’s alarming to see how countries like Pakistan, China, and those in Central Asia are becoming increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events, floods, and water scarcity – exemplified by the recent devastating floods in Pakistan! These environmental challenges have severe socio-economic consequences, particularly for agriculture and infrastructure. The discussions highlighted the need for a regional, cooperative approach to tackle these threats as it’s clear that no country can effectively address climate change in isolation.

One key aspect of the summit was the recognition that, since the industrial era, global temperatures have risen by about 1.1 degrees Celsius. For the SCO region, which spans both arid and mountainous regions, this increase poses severe risks. In light of these challenges, the member states reaffirmed their commitment to keeping global warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius (a critical goal established by the Paris Agreement).

Promoting Renewable Energy and Green Growth

Another major focus of the SCO summit was the shift towards renewable energy, and for good reason. Many SCO nations, including Pakistan and China, are heavily reliant on fossil fuels, which are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. To combat this, transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower is essential for reducing the region’s carbon footprint.

China, being the world’s largest producer of solar panels, is perfectly positioned to lead the way in helping other SCO countries build their renewable energy infrastructure. During the summit, discussions centered around how sharing technology, and expertise can make this transition smoother. Moreover,  the benefits aren’t just environmental – according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), switching to renewables could create millions of jobs by 2030, bringing economic benefits to the table as well (The Guardian, 2024).

Water Management and Disaster Risk Reduction

Water resource management emerged as another critical issue during the summit. With Central Asia facing severe water scarcity due to climate change, cooperation on managing transboundary water resources, such as the Amu Darya and Syr Darya rivers, was a significant topic of discussion. Effective strategies for shared water management are vital for ensuring food security and supporting livelihoods across the region.

Additionally, disaster risk reduction also took center stage. With member states facing more frequent and severe natural disasters, it’s evident that proactive measures must be implemented. Pakistan’s devastating floods in recent years are a stark reminder of the importance of investing in early warning systems and disaster preparedness. The SCO member states emphasized the need for developing frameworks that would help mitigate the impacts of such disasters through regional coordination and shared knowledge.

Key Outcomes: A Framework for Future Action

The SCO summit yielded some significant outcomes, particularly regarding environmental initiatives. The heads of the delegation reaffirmed their commitment to the SCO Green Belt Program, emphasizing the need for sustainable economic growth and green development. This is huge, as it sets the tone for member states to prioritize eco-friendly practices.

Takeaways from the Summit:

• Reaffirming Commitment to SCO Green Belt Program: A clear indication of the region’s dedication to environmental sustainability.
• Establishing a Platform for Environmental Information Exchange: Facilitating the adoption of new green technologies and fostering regional cooperation.
• Creating a Special Working Group on Climate Change: Tasked with drafting agreements for regional climate cooperation and securing funding for future environmental projects.

The Special Working Group on Climate Change is particularly noteworthy, as it will play a crucial role in addressing climate-related challenges and securing funding for environmental initiatives. By working together, SCO member states can make significant strides in mitigating the impacts of climate change and promoting sustainable development.

It’s encouraging to witness such momentum building around environmental issues, especially given the region’s vulnerability to climate change. The progress made at the summit is a promising step towards fostering a more sustainable future for SCO member states.

Looking Forward: A Regional Climate Fund?

One proposal that gained traction during the summit was the idea of creating a regional climate fund. This fund could provide financial support for developing countries within the SCO to implement green infrastructure and renewable energy projects. While no official agreement was reached, the idea remains under consideration as a potential mechanism for enhancing climate resilience across the region.

From Words to Action

Although the 2024 SCO summit laid the groundwork for stronger regional cooperation on climate change, the real test lies in translating these discussions into concrete actions. For Pakistan and other SCO countries, the need to address climate change is not just about environmental preservation; it is about ensuring economic stability, security, and the future well-being of their citizens.

As the SCO moves forward, maintaining momentum on climate action will be crucial. The summit’s commitments are a step in the right direction, but the journey ahead demands unwavering dedication, strategic investment, and collaborative efforts to build a resilient and sustainable future for the region. By collaborating effectively and staying committed to their goals, SCO nations can overcome the complexities of climate change and create a better tomorrow for generations to come.