Pakistan’s wild economy

Pakistan is a land of breathtaking landscapes, from the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the vast deserts of Thar and the lush green forests of the north. It is home to some of the world’s most unique and endangered species, like the majestic snow leopard, the rare Markhor (Pakistan’s national animal), and the playful Indus River dolphin.

Yet, when people think of global wildlife destinations or biodiversity hotspots, Pakistan rarely comes to mind. Countries like Kenya, India and Indonesia often steal the spotlight. Why is that? And more importantly, what is Pakistan missing out on -- not just environmentally, but economically?

Pakistan’s biodiversity is incredibly rich, but it’s also underappreciated. The country has over 1,000 species of birds, 195 species of mammals, and countless plants and insects. Its ecosystems range from the icy mountains of the north to the warm coastal areas of the south. These natural treasures are both beautiful and valuable.

Wildlife and biodiversity can be a significant source of income if managed properly. Think about it: every year, millions of tourists flock to places like Kenya, Costa Rica and the Galapagos Islands to see wildlife. These countries earn billions of dollars from ecotourism. Pakistan has the potential to do the same, but it’s not happening yet.

Let’s talk numbers. Ecotourism is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the global tourism industry. According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, nature-based tourism generates over $600 billion annually. Countries with rich biodiversity, like South Africa and Brazil, earn a significant portion of their GDP from wildlife tourism. Pakistan, with its unique species and stunning landscapes, could tap into this market. But how?

Imagine tourists from around the world coming to Pakistan to see the snow leopard in its natural habitat or to watch the Markhor gracefully climb the mountains. These tourists would spend money on hotels, food, transportation, and guides, creating jobs and boosting local economies. For example, in Gilgit-Baltistan, community-based tourism initiatives have already shown promise. Locals are earning income by hosting tourists and offering guided tours. If scaled up, this could transform the region’s economy.

Protecting wildlife is good for the environment and good for the economy. Conservation projects create jobs in research, monitoring, and park management. For instance, the conservation of the Markhor has helped increase its population, but it’s also sparked a debate about the methods used to achieve this success. Trophy hunting programmes, where permits are sold at high prices to fund conservation, have provided livelihoods for local communities. However, as a wildlife and climate activist, I believe trophy hunting is not the answer. It raises ethical concerns and sends a conflicting message about conservation.

The government and private sector should work together to develop ecotourism infrastructure. This includes building better roads, training local guides, and creating wildlife-friendly accommodations

Instead of relying on hunting, we can explore alternatives like eco-friendly tourism, wildlife photography safaris, and community-based conservation programs. These initiatives can generate income while preserving the lives of these magnificent creatures. By investing in non-lethal alternatives, we can protect wildlife, support local communities, and promote a more compassionate approach to conservation. After all, the true value of wildlife lies in its existence, not in its destruction.

Pakistan’s biodiversity isn’t just about animals. Its forests and plants have economic value too. For example, the Himalayan yew tree produces a compound used in cancer treatment. If harvested sustainably, such resources could become a source of income for the country.

Despite its potential, Pakistan’s biodiversity remains underutilised. There are several reasons for this.

Many people around the world don’t know about Pakistan’s wildlife. The country hasn’t marketed itself as a wildlife destination. Compare this to India, which promotes its tiger reserves and national parks aggressively. Pakistan needs to tell its story better. Tourists need good roads, clean accommodation and reliable transportation. In many parts of Pakistan, these basics are missing. For example, reaching remote areas like Deosai National Park or the snow leopard habitats can be challenging.

Pakistan has struggled with its international image due to political instability and security issues. While the situation has improved in recent years, many tourists still hesitate to visit. Deforestation, pollution, and climate change are damaging Pakistan’s ecosystems. If these issues aren’t addressed, the very resources that could drive economic growth will disappear.

The good news is that it’s not too late. Pakistan can still unlock the economic potential of its biodiversity. The government and private sector should work together to develop ecotourism infrastructure. This includes building better roads, training local guides, and creating wildlife-friendly accommodations.

Pakistan needs a global marketing campaign to showcase its biodiversity. Social media, documentaries, and partnerships with international travel agencies can help spread the word. Protecting wildlife isn’t just about saving animals; it’s about securing economic opportunities.

The government should increase funding for conservation projects and involve local communities in these efforts. Tackling issues like deforestation and climate change is crucial. Sustainable practices, such as reforestation and waste management, can protect ecosystems while creating jobs.

The writer is a freelance contributor. He can be reached at: ubaidsa9@gmail.com