Pakistan is on the frontlines of climate change, bearing the brunt of devastating extreme weather events that threaten the very foundations of the country. It is no unknown knowledge that Pakistan is ranked 5th most vulnerable Country to Climate change impact and the temperature is expected to rise causing more frequent floods and extreme heat waves. The 2022 floods, which displaced millions and ravaged infrastructure and agriculture, serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for climate action.
As the country struggles to cope with the escalating impacts of climate change, a new generation of Pakistani youth is emerging as a powerful force for change. Through awareness-raising campaigns, activism, and sustainable initiatives, these young champions are driving a grassroots movement to build climate resilience and shape a sustainable future for Pakistan.
In the global fight against climate change, youth leadership is a powerful catalyst for change. Among the many organizations striving to combat environmental challenges, the Progressive Climate Foundation (PCF) stands out as a pioneering, youth-led movement in Pakistan. Founded in 2020 by Tawseef Khan, PCF has rapidly emerged as a driving force for grassroots climate action, empowering young people to take ownership of sustainable solutions.
The Progressive Climate Foundation (PCF) is a non-profit civil society organization that fosters meaningful climate action through youth empowerment and community engagement at the grassroots level. PCF operates in the domains of Clean Water and Sanitation, SDG 13, youth empowerment, environmental sustainability, disaster resilience, transforming lives through olive cultivation, and policy advocacy.
The mission of PCF is clear: to empower and mobilize youth for active climate action. By educating, advocating, and launching tangible initiatives, PCF strives to mitigate the worsening effects of climate change. The organization’s slogan, “Let’s Save the Horizon,” underscores the urgency of their cause, emphasizing the necessity of protecting the environment and securing a sustainable future for all. The term “horizon” symbolizes the broader spectrum of our planet’s future and the well-being of future generations.
Key thematic Areas:
The Progressive Climate Foundation (PCF) is committed to driving impactful change through its focus on key thematic areas targeting Sustainable Development Goals.
- SDG 3 Good Health and Wellbeing:
Climate Change directly impacts public health through extreme weather events, air pollution, and waterborne diseases. PCF believe that addressing these issues ensures resilient communities, aligning with SGD 3 to promote sustainable and equitable health solutions. PCF is working to bridge policy gaps, promote climate-resilient health systems, and empower communities with sustainable solutions to safeguard public well-being.
- SDG 6 Clean Water and Sanitation:
Clean Water is human right and it is vital for a sustainable future. PCF is committed to advocating for efficient water management, improving access to safe drinking water, and promoting sustainable sanitation practices.
- SDG 13 Climate Action:
Progressive Climate Foundation (PCF) believe that Climate Action is essential to building a sustainable and resilient future, especially as Pakistan faces rising temperatures, extreme weather, and environmental degradation. PCF is committed to driving climate policies, fostering youth engagement, and promoting sustainable solutions to mitigate climate risks and support a just transition for vulnerable communities.
- SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals:
By collaborating with policy makers, youth, civil society, and global organizations, PCF strengthens collective efforts to advance sustainability, bridge knowledge gaps, and implement effective climate solutions for a greener future.
- Youth Empowerment:
Youth empowerment is a cornerstone of meaningful climate action in Pakistan. With youth making up a significant portion of the population, their engagement is essential for shaping a sustainable future. PCF works to equip youth with the knowledge, skills and opportunities needed to become climate leaders by providing training, mentorship, and platforms for advocacy. Through capacity-building initiatives, policy dialogues, and collaborative projects, we empower young individuals to influence decision-making, drive community-led solutions, and take active roles in addressing climate and sustainability challenges.
- Solid Waste Management:
PCF advocates for sustainable waste management practices by promoting policy reforms, community awareness, and circular economy solutions. Through research, stakeholder engagement, and youth-led initiatives, we work to minimize waste, encourage recycling, and develop innovative strategies to create cleaner, more sustainable cities.
These areas reflect PCF’s approach to fostering sustainable practices and creating resilience against the adverse impacts of climate change. PCF has conducted numerous projects to drive climate resilience, particularly in remote regions of Pakistan such as Kalam Swat, Lower Dir, Malakand Division, Charsadda, Peshawar, and Swabi. These include community training sessions, changing minds for climate resilience workshops, disaster risk reduction training.
A Youth-led Climate Movement
What sets PCF apart is its strong emphasis on youth leadership. Since its establishment, the organization has grown into a dynamic network of youth and climate activists. PCF has expanded its reach to over 20 districts, 10 universities, and several schools, impacting more than 20,000 beneficiaries through 50+ projects. Leveraging a growing network of 2300+ climate fellows, volunteers, and local ambassadors, PCF actively engages diverse communities across Pakistan to address pressing environmental challenges.
By fostering an inclusive and action-oriented platform, PCF enables youth to:
- Take on leadership roles
- Engage in policy discussions
- Organize climate action initiatives
PCF have been organizing successful projects that aligns with PCF’s mission to drive sustainable solutions and empower communities in Pakistan.
PCF Climate Action Fellowship:
The Progressive Climate Action Fellowship build capacity and nurtures young climate leaders by equipping them with knowledge, mentorship, and hands-on experience in policy advocacy, research, and community engagement. This initiative strengthens youth-led climate action and contributes to long-term sustainability efforts.
Olive Grafting and Cultivation Project:
PCF organized successful wild olive grafting project, transforming lives through in Kallar Kahar, Peshawar and Kashmir. This project promotes climate-resilient agriculture by encouraging sustainable land use, reducing deforestation, and supporting local farmers with alternative livelihoods. Together, these initiatives advance PCF’s vision of fostering climate resilience, sustainable development, and community-driven solutions.
PCF’s initiatives have directly impacted climate-vulnerable communities by:
- Raising awareness in flood-affected areas
- Promoting sustainable agriculture through wild olive grafting & Olive Cultivation.
- Leading climate education programs in schools, universities, and rural communities
- Advocating for water conservation and solid waste management
Through these efforts, thousands of individuals, including women and children, have gained access to climate resilience knowledge and resources.
PCF’s Founder Tawseef Khan:
Tawseef Khan, a passionate climate activist from Lower Dir, one of the most climate-affected regions in Pakistan. His vision for a climate-resilient Pakistan inspired him to launch PCF in 2020, mobilizing youth to address urgent environmental challenges.
Through Tawseef’s leadership, PCF has built strong community connections, youth alliances, and environmental partnerships.
PCF’s impact extends far and wide through collaborations with prestigious organizations such as the Pakistan Air Force Kamra Airbase, the Capital Development Authority Islamabad, the International Islamic University Islamabad, Global Shapers Islamabad, Pehchan Pakistan, Hunerkada, the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board, Rescue 1122, Barakah Aid, Directorate of Youth Affairs, and local government institutions in KPK and ICT, Pakistan. These partnerships have played an instrumental role in the foundation’s progress.
Looking Ahead
As Pakistan faces escalating climate challenges, PCF is expanding its reach with:
- District-wide climate training sessions
- Integrated solid waste management programs
- Advanced climate resilience projects
By mobilizing youth, fostering partnerships, and advocating for policy changes, PCF is driving Pakistan toward a sustainable and resilient future. In conclusion, the Progressive Climate Foundation (PCF) has established itself as a vital force in climate action, driven by its commitment to empowering youth and fostering grassroots initiatives across Pakistan. Through strategic partnerships, impactful projects, and a focus on sustainable development, PCF continues to play a pivotal role in addressing the climate crisis. Its dedication to education, advocacy, and tangible action ensures that future generations are equipped to protect the environment and create a sustainable future for all.
