Mitigating Climate Change: Evaluating the Role of Nuclear Energy in Pakistan's Sustainable Energy Transition

Abstract

Pakistan sits between two rapidly growing economies, China and India, which are the major sources of carbon emissions. As a result, it faces severe environmental challenges, including climate change, extreme weather patterns, and rising temperatures. To address these challenges, Pakistan aims to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels; however, it also faces the enormous challenge of transitioning to green energy sources. At this critical juncture, nuclear energy can serve as a viable solution to Pakistan's energy woes. This study, using a qualitative methodology based on secondary sources of data, addresses the question of how and in what ways nuclear energy can help mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change in Pakistan, especially through its contribution to power generation. Additionally, this study examines the role of nuclear energy in the transportation sector. The research paper summarizes the significance of nuclear power in Pakistan as a reliable energy source that can support sustainable development, reduce the nation’s energy crisis, and contribute to global endeavors to combat climate change. Moreover, the paper emphasizes that Pakistan should prefer nuclear energy as a cost-effective, sustainable, and climate-friendly solution to its climate crisis. To lay down theoretical foundations, this study employs energy transition theory.