On the occasion of World Environment Day, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s strong commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development, identifying plastic pollution as one of the most urgent global environmental threats.
In his message, the Prime Minister highlighted the alarming rise in plastic waste worldwide, which poses serious risks to ecosystems, economies, and future generations. “Pakistan is also grappling with the damaging effects of plastic pollution,” he noted.
Prime Minister Shehbaz stressed the need for bold, united global efforts to combat environmental degradation. “We must respond collectively and decisively to confront these growing environmental challenges,” he said
Celebrated every year on June 5, World Environment Day is the United Nations’ leading platform for promoting global awareness and action to protect the planet. While this year’s theme centers on “land restoration, desertification, and drought resilience,” plastic pollution continues to be a pressing issue for many countries, including Pakistan.
Pakistan is one of the countries most at risk from the impacts of climate change, despite contributing less than 1% to global greenhouse gas emissions. The country is grappling with:
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Widespread plastic pollution, especially in cities where waste management systems are under severe strain.
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Escalating temperatures, with extreme heatwaves posing serious threats to human health and agriculture.
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Growing water scarcity and accelerating glacial melt, which are intensifying drought conditions and heightening the risk of floods.
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Deforestation and land degradation, leading to loss of biodiversity and declining agricultural productivity.
In response, initiatives like Punjab’s Zero Plastic campaign, large-scale tree plantation drives, and Pakistan’s commitments under the Paris Agreement reflect its efforts to build environmental resilience. However, experts warn that without active public involvement, stricter enforcement, and stronger international collaboration, these efforts alone will not be enough.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s message serves as a call to action—not just for Pakistan but for the world—to recognize environmental protection as a collective responsibility essential to safeguarding the planet’s future.
