Researchers and policymakers explored solar radiation modification (SRM) and its potential implications for climate, health and policymaking in Pakistan.
The event focused on Pakistan-based research examining how SRM could affect climate patterns, drought conditions, malaria transmission and other vector-borne diseases. It was organised by the Department of Meteorology at COMSATS University Islamabad (CUI) and supported through an Opportunity Grant from the Degrees Initiative.
Pakistan is highly vulnerable to climate change, facing increasing risks from extreme temperatures, floods, droughts, changing rainfall patterns and water stress and the knock-on impacts on agriculture, public health, ecosystems and livelihoods.
The workshop provided a platform for researchers and policymakers to examine what is currently known about SRM, where major knowledge gaps remain and what areas require further study.
Drought and malaria explored
Degrees-funded researcher Prof. Athar Hussain, who leads both modelling and socio-political studies on SRM, presented findings on the possible effects of SRM on climate responses and drought, as well as its potential relationship with malaria and other vector-borne diseases via the SRM Malaria Dashboard,
Prof. Hussain also underscored the importance of disseminating research findings and maintaining sustained engagement among researchers, policymakers and relevant national institutions.
Participants took part in an interactive SRM game session to learn about different types of climate interventions, as part of efforts to make complex research more accessible to policymakers and stakeholders.
CUI reaffirmed its commitment to advancing interdisciplinary, policy-relevant research and strengthening international collaboration to support responsible climate research, climate resilience and sustainable development in Pakistan and beyond.
An active role in international discussions
Addressing participants, CUI Rector Prof. Raheel Qamar said the growing climate crisis is forcing countries to assess new technological options alongside their possible environmental and social consequences. He stressed that countries in the Global South should generate their own scientific evidence and play an active role in international discussions on emerging climate technologies.
Mowmita Basak Mow, Policy Engagement Manager (Asia & Pacific Islands) at the Degrees Initiative, spoke about the organisation’s commitment to supporting research, capacity building and informed policy dialogue on SRM across the Global South. She also emphasised the importance of ensuring that the perspectives and priorities of climate-vulnerable countries are meaningfully represented in international discussions on SRM research.
Participants included Ambassador Shafqat Kakakhel, Chairperson of SDPI, Zakya Rubab from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Dr Zaheer Ahmed Babar, Director General of the Pakistan Meteorological Department, and Prof. Azra Yasmin, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Fatima Jinnah Women University.
