Khawar Jalil, Tariq Feroz, Parveen Zahra

Abstract

Climate finance is exceptionally indispensable for the sustainable transformation of Pakistan’s mining sector, yet access to funding remains a major challenge. This study examines the barriers, opportunities, and policy gaps in mobilizing green investments, emphasizing the need for regulatory reforms, financial innovation, and global partnerships. Drawing insights from Chile, South Africa, and Australia, it identifies best practices that Pakistan can adopt to attract climate finance. Key recommendations include blended finance models, ESG-driven policies, and green banking frameworks to enhance investment flows. Without urgent action, Pakistan risks missing out on critical funding and falling behind in the global shift toward sustainable mining. By implementing strategic policies and fostering collaboration, Pakistan can position its mining industry for a resilient, low-carbon future while securing long-term economic growth.

Keywords: Climate Finance; Sustainable Mining; Green Investments; Low-Carbon Economy; Pakistan Mining Sector; Environmental Sustainability.

    ABSTRACT

This study examines the relationship between agricultural resilience and climate change in Pakistan, focusing on the roles of CO₂ emissions, renewable energy consumption, government expenditure on agriculture, and irrigation infrastructure in shaping agricultural productivity. Utilizing quarterly data spanning from 2004Q1 to 2023Q4, the analysis employs a dynamic econometric approach, incorporating unit root testing, Johansen cointegration, and robust least squares regression to assess both short-run dynamics and long-run equilibrium relationships. Empirical findings indicate that renewable energy consumption exerts a positive and marginally significant effect on agricultural value added, suggesting its potential in enhancing productivity through reduced reliance on fossil fuels and improved access to sustainable energy sources. Conversely, government spending on irrigation and farm infrastructure demonstrates a statistically significant negative impact on agricultural output, pointing to possible inefficiencies in public expenditure and transitional disruptions during infrastructure implementation. CO₂ emissions exhibit a negative but statistically insignificant association with agricultural performance, implying that their influence may be indirect, mediated by other variables, or observable only over extended time horizons. Diagnostic tests confirm the presence of long-run cointegration among the variables and generally support the adequacy of the estimated model, despite minor specification concerns. The results underscore the critical importance of effective governance, strategic investment in renewable energy, and the efficient allocation of public resources to enhance the adaptability and sustainability of Pakistan’s agricultural sector in the face of climate change.

Keywords: Climate Change; Agricultural Resilience; CO2 Emissions; Renewable Energy; Government Expenditures; Irrigation Infrastructure; Pakistan; Robust Least Squares.