The government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) has resolved to establish an autonomous Climate Action Board to lead the province’s response to the escalating challenge of climate change. A legislative draft to formalize the creation of this powerful new body will soon be presented to the KP Assembly for approval. This move represents a significant step towards a structured and independent provincial strategy for environmental governance.
According to the proposed draft, the board will operate with complete independence and possess its own decision-making authority. Its composition is designed to blend governmental oversight with private sector expertise, comprising eight administrative secretaries from various departments alongside four representatives from the private sector.
The board’s mandate is comprehensive and ambitious. It will be tasked with formulating provincial climate policies, fostering crucial inter-departmental coordination, and advancing research. Furthermore, it will be responsible for augmenting cooperation with international institutions, pursuing carbon credit opportunities, preparing greenhouse gas inventories, and promoting a transition to a low-carbon economy.
To ensure accountability and steady progress, the legal draft recommends that the board hold mandatory meetings every four months. These sessions will be used to meticulously review the progress of all climate-related initiatives and the implementation of policies, ensuring that the province’s climate goals are being actively pursued.
