Nuclear Energy as a Path towards Achieving Sustainable Development Goals in Pakistan

Abstract

The research aims to explore the role of nuclear energy in achieving the SDGs in Pakistan and to trace the country's progress toward these goals so far, with particular focus on the energy sector, health and agriculture. The study highlights the intersection of sustainable development and global nuclear governance, which, when at cross purposes, constrain international cooperation and hinder progress toward the professed goals. Nations around the world have recognized the instrumental role of nuclear technology for achieving sustainable development goals, including poverty reduction, enhancing human health, meeting the growing demand for clean and affordable energy, etc. In line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted in 2015, Pakistan’s peaceful uses of nuclear technology are contributing significantly to promoting sustainable socio-economic development in the country. Pakistan has focused on power generation to bolster the country’s power sector, support sustainable, climate-resilient agricultural practices, and improve health care. The study uses a qualitative research design based on thematic analysis of secondary data. The findings of this research show that Pakistan has made significant progress in peaceful uses of nuclear energy to reduce dependence on imported fuels, promote sustainable agriculture, ensure food security, and improve the quality of health care through cancer hospitals and research institutes established across the country by the Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC). Besides these relevant domains, peaceful applications of nuclear technology also contribute indirectly towards other SDGs such as industrial innovation, sustainable communities, quality education, and international cooperation.