ISLAMABAD: Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday called for collective efforts to protect the environment, conserve natural resources and adopt sustainable practices on the occasion of World Earth Day.
In separate messages marking the day observed globally on April 22, President Zardari urged the nation to pledge to plant more trees, reduce plastic waste, adopt sustainable practices and educate youth about the importance of environmental conservation.
“A cleaner and greener Pakistan is not only a necessity but a duty we owe to our upcoming generations,” he said.
The president noted that Pakistan is acutely aware of environmental challenges ranging from climate change and ecosystem degradation to flash floods, droughts, landslides and extreme weather events.
“These are not distant threats but present realities that affect the lives and livelihoods of our people,” he said.
Zardari said sustainable development and environmental stewardship remained central to his vision for Pakistan, and called for stronger policies to protect forests, conserve water and promote renewable energy.
He urged every citizen, community and institution to play their part in building a resilient and prosperous nation that lives in harmony with nature.
The prime minister, in his message, said Pakistan was observing International Mother Earth Day with a strong sense of commitment, stressing the urgent need to protect the planet and fulfil collective responsibilities.
He said the Earth’s natural resources are essential for sustaining human life and development, as well as nurturing all forms of flora and fauna, adding that Pakistan remains among the countries most vulnerable to climate change.
Sharif said climate change was adversely affecting natural resources, climate patterns and overall quality of life, while increasing climate intensity and unusual environmental changes were clear signs of ecological disruption.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting natural resources, biodiversity and the environment, while pursuing measures to combat climate change, including the promotion of renewable energy.
The prime minister also stressed the need for greater public awareness and stronger international cooperation to tackle environmental challenges effectively, saying collective efforts are essential to ensure a clean, safe and healthy environment for future generations.
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