Environmental Biotechnology and Climate Resilience: Harnessing Innovation for Sustainable Resource Management in Pakistan

Abstract

Environmental degradation and climate vulnerability present urgent challenges for Pakistan, where industrial effluents, soil degradation, and water contamination intersect with recurring climate shocks. This study evaluates the role of environmental biotechnology (EBT) as a sustainable alternative to conventional mitigation strategies, with a focus on its contribution to climate resilience and resource management. Using a mixed-methods design, primary data were collected from 400 households across Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan, complemented by surveys of 50 firms, 20 key informant interviews, and documentation of pilot initiatives in biogas, microbial wastewater treatment, and phytoremediation. Descriptive statistics revealed that household awareness of biofertilizers was highest (67%), with adoption rates of 28%, while biogas digesters and microbial water filters were less common (12% each). Logistic regression identified education, landholding size, climate stress exposure, extension contact, and access to credit as significant predictors of adoption (p < 0.05). Firm-level evidence showed that microbial effluent treatment reduced chemical oxygen demand (COD) and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) by over 80%, with payback periods of 3–4 years. Community-scale biogas projects demonstrated energy co-benefits, reducing household energy bills by 31% and avoiding 92 tCO₂e annually. Despite proven environmental and economic gains, barriers such as upfront cost, uncertain performance, and limited technical services constrain wider adoption. The findings suggest that scaling environmental biotechnology in Pakistan requires integrated strategies that combine de-risked financing, targeted extension services, and supportive governance frameworks. The study concludes that EBT represents not only a technical innovation but also a socio-ecological pathway to climate resilience and sustainable rural development.