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Climate Change

Urgent Wake-Up Call: Pakistan on Top Among Countries Affected by Climate Change

Pakistan on top among countries affected by climate change. Urgent action is needed as environmental degradation threatens health, economy, and biodiversity.

Pakistan on top among countries affected by climate change — this alarming truth was echoed loudly during the World Environment Day seminar held at the Punjab University College of Earth and Environmental Sciences (PU CEES). As climate change tightens its grip on the globe, Pakistan has emerged as one of the hardest-hit nations, facing severe threats to its health, environment, economy, and public infrastructure.

Climate Crisis Discussed on World Environment Day

At the seminar titled “Ending Plastic Pollution,” Parliamentary Secretary for Environmental Protection, Climate Change, Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, Kanwal Pervaiz, emphasized that the climate emergency is the biggest challenge of our time. Held in Lahore’s Al-Razi Hall, the event marked World Environment Day with deep concern and powerful statements.

Kanwal Pervaiz warned that Pakistan is suffering the dire consequences of climate neglect. “In the past, Lahore was known as the city of gardens; today, it’s called the city of pollution,” she said. Her speech underscored the urgent need for transformative policies and community participation to mitigate climate disasters.

She further highlighted that 80% of air pollution in urban centers like Lahore stems from motorbike and vehicle emissions, urging a collective shift toward eco-friendly transportation and regulation.


The Role of Plastic Pollution

Plastic pollution was another major issue addressed. Kanwal Pervaiz called it a “silent killer” damaging water systems, air quality, and sewage infrastructure. Despite being a preventable crisis, plastic continues to clog cities and rural areas alike, contributing to both visual pollution and environmental toxicity.

“We must raise awareness and take individual responsibility to phase out single-use plastics,” she urged, encouraging both students and faculty to act as climate ambassadors in their homes and communities.

A significant highlight of the seminar was the assertion that PU CEES has been more proactive than provincial authorities in addressing environmental degradation. This institutional initiative reflects the potential of academia in shaping the country’s sustainability future.


Lahore: From City of Gardens to City of Pollution

Lahore has witnessed a tragic transition from lush greenery to one of the most polluted urban centers in South Asia. The city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) frequently records hazardous levels, often surpassing 300 AQI, especially in winter months due to smog.

Prof. Dr. M. Ali, a keynote speaker at the event, linked the degradation to careless urban development and unchecked vehicle emissions. He challenged attendees to reflect: “Is the land we’re passing down to future generations the same our elders left us?” He warned that environmental degradation is an even greater threat than artificial intelligence or automation.


Urgency of Government and Individual Action

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has prioritized environmental health, citing it in her inaugural speech. Her government has since launched tree-planting campaigns, smog-fighting operations, and public awareness drives. However, implementation gaps remain.

The real power lies with individuals. From switching to reusable bags, conserving water, reducing plastic dependency, or planting trees—every action counts. The seminar emphasized that climate adaptation must become a societal norm, not just a government initiative.


Call for Environmental Education

Dr. M. Ali stressed the need for enhanced climate literacy among students. Without understanding the depth of the crisis, future generations will struggle to address its impacts. Climate education should be embedded into school and university curricula across Pakistan.

In particular, students must learn about:

  • Water conservation
  • Carbon footprints
  • Renewable energy
  • Urban forestation
  • Disaster preparedness

Conclusion: A Path Toward Sustainable Recovery

As Pakistan continues to experience devastating floods, intense heatwaves, and prolonged droughts, the truth remains stark: Pakistan is on top among countries affected by climate change.

The need for immediate and sustained action is critical. Universities, government bodies, NGOs, and individuals must work together to restore the balance between development and nature.

World Environment Day served not just as a platform for discussion but also a powerful call to action. The only way forward is through community empowerment, strong political will, and unwavering public engagement.


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