ISLAMABAD, Aug 29 (Alliance News): A four-member delegation of students from Italy’s Milan University met with the Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, Romina Khurshid Alam, to discuss the pressing issue of climate change and its impact on Pakistan.
The meeting, held at the Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Ministry, provided an opportunity for the students to learn about the socio-economic consequences of climate change in Pakistan and the government’s efforts to build climate resilience.
Welcoming the delegation, Romina Khurshid Alam emphasized that climate change is one of the most critical challenges facing the world today, with effects that are particularly evident in Pakistan.
As one of the top ten climate-vulnerable countries, Pakistan has been experiencing an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including unprecedented floods, devastating heatwaves, and rapid glacial melting.
Alam highlighted the recent June 2024 heatwave, which saw record-high temperatures, adversely affecting public health and agriculture. She also noted the increasing intensity and frequency of floods, which have displaced thousands of families, damaged infrastructure, and disrupted livelihoods, especially in rural areas.
“Managing these climate-related challenges has become a grave concern for Pakistan, a resource-poor country with limited financial and technical resources,” Alam said.
Discussing the impact on agriculture, she explained that unpredictable weather patterns and extreme temperatures are harming crop yields and food security. These changes have led to crop failures, reduced productivity, and significant implications for food prices and rural economies.
Romina Khurshid Alam also pointed out the disruptions in local ecosystems and biodiversity caused by climate change, particularly in key habitats like mangroves and wetlands, which are crucial for environmental protection and the livelihoods of resource-dependent communities.
To address these climate risks, the government is implementing various adaptation strategies, including flood management projects, improved water resource management, and the expansion of early warning systems. The government is also promoting climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable land use practices to enhance the sector’s resilience.
Alam shared details of the ministry’s efforts to secure funding and technical assistance from international organizations and donors for climate adaptation and mitigation projects.
She highlighted collaborations with the UN and various environmental NGOs to address both immediate and long-term climate impacts.
Community engagement is a critical component of the government’s climate action strategy, according to Alam.
Local communities are being involved in disaster preparedness, reforestation, and sustainable farming practices, while education and awareness campaigns are conducted through media, schools, and other channels to empower individuals to take climate action.
Romina Khurshid Alam concluded by stressing that climate change is the gravest global issue of the century, requiring international cooperation. She affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to continuing its engagement with global partners to boost climate action and advocate for fair and effective measures on the international stage.
The students expressed their gratitude to Romina Khurshid Alam and her team for the informative briefing, praising Pakistan’s commitment to global climate action as an inspiring example for other countries to follow.
