On this Earth Day, experts say planet needs saving

Various rallies show support for protecting and preserving surroundings

FAISALABAD/ LAHORE: On Earth Day, observed across the world on April 22, experts stressed the need to step up efforts to fight environmental hazards, preserve nature and save the world from the devastating effects of climate change.

The Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences at the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) held an awareness walk to mark the day. It started at the institute and ended at Iqbal Auditorium.

Leading the walk, Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences Director Dr Javed Akhtar said people need to be sensitised about environmental issues. We have to create public momentum in order to mitigate greenhouse emissions, increase tree cover, reduce pollutions and protect endangered species.

The government’s ‘Clean and Green’ campaign is a hallmark initiative that will bring tangible results, he added. Environment Protection Agency Director Shaukat Hayat said that various events are held across the world on this day to show support for environmental protection.

Dr Muhammad Yasmeen said that with quality education, research and joint efforts, people can urge the public to adopt green technology. Dr Anwarul Haq said that the younger generation should be encouraged to actively participate through awareness campaigns, discussions and plantation campaigns.

M Abdullah from the World Wildlife Fund said that the people must understand the need to discontinue using plastic bags, conserve fresh water bodies and use natural resources effectively. Students also took part in a poster competition.

Meanwhile, the Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC) and the Lahore Zoo also observed Earth Day by holding a plantation activity, an awareness walk and other events. The awareness walk was led by LWMC Communications Head Jameel Khawar and Lahore Zoo Director Sajid Latif. The walk was followed by a plantation drive where camps were set up and brochures were distributed. Participants also carried out a waste picking activity at Lahore Zoo.

LWMC Managing Director Khalid Nazir urged people to throw wrappers from packaged food in trash cans rather than littering on roads. “Citizens should use paper bags and should use trash cans to dispose of garbage,” he said. He added that Earth Day is celebrated each year so that the people can think of what they can do to make the world a cleaner place.

However, this requires action not only from the government but also from citizens. “Better waste management, particularly reducing, reusing and recycling with the support of local communities can provide results,” he said.