Abstract
In Pakistan, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), tobacco farming is a significant cash crop that both sustains rural livelihoods and poses significant health and socio-environmental problems. Although it generates revenue and jobs, a high reliance on tobacco production has resulted in health hazards, ecological degradation, and heightened susceptibility to livelihood threats. The socio-environmental effects of tobacco cultivation in KPK were investigated in this study using a mixed-methods methodology. Quantitative data from a survey of 300 farmers was examined using regression analysis, indices (EDI, HRI), and descriptive statistics. Ten key informant interviews also provided qualitative insights that were triangulated with survey results and subjected to theme analysis. Regression analysis revealed that livelihood vulnerability was decreased by sustainable practices (β = -0.195, p < 0.001) and increased by ecological impacts (β = 0.401, p < 0.001) and health hazards (β = 0.370, p < 0.001). Deforestation (β = 0.397), pesticide use (β = 0.394), and fertilizer use (β = 0.310) were the main causes of ecological deterioration (all p < 0.001). Long working hours (β = 0.196), leaf touch (β = 0.343), and pesticide exposure (β = 0.384) were associated with health hazards, whereas protective gear decreased risks (β = -0.163, p < 0.01). Qualitative results validated policy gaps, ecological harm, and tobacco dependence. Because tobacco production in KPK combines income dependence with environmental degradation and occupational health risks, it makes livelihood vulnerability worse. Despite the short-term financial gain, the long-term effects compromise environmental sustainability and household resilience. Reducing vulnerability and improving the welfare of farming communities requires promoting crop variety, sustainable agricultural methods, safeguards, and legislative changes.
Keywords: Tobacco Cultivation, Livelihood Vulnerability, Socio-Environmental, Health Risks, Pakistan
Biography
Asim Zubair is a PhD candidate in Sociology at Hohai University, China, with an MPhil in Sociology and an MSc in Development Studies. His research addresses climate change, water governance, gender equality, and rural livelihoods, resulting in 30 peer-reviewed journal publications. His professional experience spans research fellowships at Pakistan’s National Agricultural Research Centre, project management, and fieldwork with development organizations. An active international presenter at congresses in Turkey and Uzbekistan, his scholarly contributions have been recognized through multiple accolades, underscoring his dedication to evidence-based social development and sustainable community solutions.
