While climate change remains at the forefront of global and national policy, another environmental threat quietly growing in scale and severity is chemical pollution. Increasingly, scientists and environmental experts warn that the health and ecological risks posed by widespread chemical contamination may rival those of climate change. However, the issue receives far less public attention and policy action.

The high presence of synthetic chemicals in everyday products, food systems, and the natural environment is rising extensively across the globe. In Pakistan, the situation is exacerbated by weak regulations, low public awareness, and unsafe practices in both agricultural and urban contexts.

Recent international studies estimate that over 100 million synthetic chemicals have been created by industrial activity. Of these, between 40,000 and 350,000 are in commercial use, according to a 2025 report by Deep Science Ventures. Recent research indicates that over 3,600 industrial chemicals linked to food preparation and packaging have been detected in human tissue samples. Nearly 80 of these have raised significant concern due to their potential connection with hormone-related disorders, fertility issues, and neurological or metabolic conditions.

Field observations from key agricultural districts of Punjab, including Faisalabad, Gujranwala, and Multan, point to serious gaps in awareness and training related to chemical safety. In many areas, smallholder farmers continue to apply pesticides without gloves, masks, or other protective gear. Empty pesticide containers are often reused for domestic storage, while spraying equipment is commonly washed in nearby........

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