Islamabad: Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has said that the provision of a clean, green, and safe environment is a fundamental right of future generations, and environmental protection is a shared responsibility
He said that although Pakistan contributes merely 0.5% to global greenhouse gas emissions, it remains among the countries most vulnerable to the adverse impacts of climate change. He expressed these views in his message on the occasion of World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5 under the auspices of the United Nations.
The Speaker stated that rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, glacial melting, and natural disasters such as floods are having a profound impact on Pakistan’s environment—posing grave threats not only to the economy but also to humans’ life. He warned that the current situation could hinder the achievement of sustainable development goals unless timely and integrated measures are taken.
Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq also added that the Parliament of Pakistan has always played a pivotal role in promoting environmental awareness and enacting legislation related to environmental protection. He added that relevant committees remain actively engaged in this regard, and several initiatives have been proposed across the country, including afforestation drives, preservation of water resources, mitigation of air pollution, and promotion of environmental education. He further stated that Pakistan’s Parliament has made significant contributions towards formulating effective legislation and policies aimed at combating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability. The passage of the Pakistan Climate Change Act 2017 and the ratification of the Paris Agreement 2015 stand as testament to the country’s commitment to achieving global environmental targets
In this regard, the Speaker also urged the international community to extend their support to developing countries like Pakistan that, despite contributing minimally to global emissions, bear the brunt of climate-related disasters. He stressed that climate justice demands a collective and equitable response to ensure a sustainable future for all.
On this occasion, Deputy Speaker National Assembly Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah remarked that environmental pollution poses a serious threat not only to public health but also to biodiversity, agricultural output, and the national economy. He emphasised that safeguarding the environment is not solely the responsibility of the government or institutions—every citizen must play their part. He called upon the youth to adopt eco-friendly practices and actively contribute to the mission of making the planet a safer place.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
