Team Details:

Principal Investigator
Dr. Muhammad Nasar-u-Minallah
Associate Professor
University of the Punjab, Lahore

Co-PI
Dr. Sahar Zia
Assistant Professor
Lahore College for Women University, Lahore

Co-PI
Shiza Ashiq
Independent Researcher 
Gojra, Pakistan

Research Associate
Masooma Zanaib
Freelancer
Lahore

Project Brief:

Increasing air pollution and local temperature are exposing cities and their residents to urban Pollution Island (UPI) and Urban Heat Island (UHI) effects i.e. degrading urban environment and posing risks to public health.  The rapid urbanisation, densification of urban centres and changes of local weather pattern instigate both phenomena and undermine the sustainability of cities. This can be achieved through mapping the hotspots of UPI, UHI and suitable sites of green spaces as climate-sensitive health interventions with GIS and RS integration. The study incorporates various data sets encompassing satellite imagery, air quality, and meteorological variables through the integrated approach of geospatial techniques. This approach will analyze the deteriorating air quality and the formation of UPI and UHI in both cities. Furthermore, public health impacts will be assessed using a Thermal Haze Adversity Index (THAI), which will be developed to measure the public health risks associated with air pollution and urban heat. This approach highlights the transformative power of geospatial techniques in tackling air pollution and urban heat challenges, providing accurate, actionable insights for sustainable and climate-resilient cities.

Public Policy Relevance:

The public policy relevance of mapping carbon sinks in the form of parks/green spaces in urban areas of Lahore and Faisalabad to mitigate air pollution/hazardous smog levels is significant. This approach directly addresses several pressing challenges faced by policymakers in densely populated cities. Here are key aspects where this research would inform and influence public policy:

Policymakers can develop city-specific guidelines for the expansion and preservation of green spaces, which are proven to mitigate the UPI and UHI effects. Moreover, by identifying areas most affected by air pollution and urban heat, the government can introduce zoning laws to prioritize urban green space development in critical areas.

Besides, enhancing urban carbon sinks aligns with Pakistan’s national climate policies, such as the National Climate Change Policy, commitments to the Paris Agreement and contributing to achieving sustainable development Goals including Goal 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and Goal 13 (Climate Action), guiding cities to adopt more climate-resilient strategies. As carbon sinks also act as air purifiers, expanding them in urban areas could significantly improve air quality. This research could support policies that address air pollution and urban heat, a major public health issue in Pakistan’s cities.

Finally, this research can identify underserved areas with limited access to green spaces, informing policies aimed at reducing socio-environmental inequalities. Ensuring that marginalized and lower-income neighbourhoods benefit from UPI and UHI mitigation and health improvements would promote social justice. In conclusion, this research aims to shape evidence-based, climate-sensitive urban policies in Pakistan.