‘Youth instrumental in battling climate disasters’

From activism to policy advocacy, youngsters lead the charge against environmental degradation

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan is grappling with the daunting reality of climate change, a challenge that echoes across its diverse landscapes. Yet, amidst this adversity, its vibrant youth offers a dynamic solution to take centre stage in the battle against environmental degradation.

With nearly 68% of the population under 30, Pakistan possesses a force capable of driving transformative change. It's time to harness their energy and empower them to lead in confronting climate issues facing the nation.

From grassroots movements to policy advocacy, Pakistani youth are making their voices heard. They are organising tree plantation drives, conducting awareness campaigns, and pushing for eco-friendly policies at both local and national levels. Their efforts are not going unnoticed.

Experts believe that engaging youth in climate action isn’t just essential for Pakistan's future but also imperative for addressing the global climate crisis. According to Muhammad Saleem, a media spokesperson at the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination (MoCCEC), the government recognises the importance of nurturing youth leadership in climate action. He highlights the National Adaptation Plan as a crucial framework for guiding future initiatives. However, he acknowledges that more concrete steps are needed to translate policies into tangible actions on the ground.

Pakistan's vulnerability to climate change underscores the urgency of global solidarity and cooperation. The international community must prioritise climate finance, technology transfer, and capacity-building initiatives to support sustainable development efforts in countries like Pakistan, Saleem further emphasised.

Ali Jabir Malik, a climate researcher, speaker and journalist, emphasises the urgent need for proactive youth-centric policies. He fears that without such policies, Pakistan's youth bulge could become both an asset and a risk in the fight against climate change. Malik stresses the importance of involving young people in policy-making, community mobilisation, and innovative solutions to address the growing climate vulnerabilities being faced by the country.

Adnan Riaz, a young social activist, echoes Malik's sentiments, emphasising the power of youth-led environmental campaigns. He points to the role of social media in mobilising young people and amplifying their voices on climate issues. Riaz believes that Pakistani youth have the potential to drive significant change through initiatives like sustainable ecotourism and green entrepreneurship.

Sadia Mazhar, another young social activist, highlights the plethora of opportunities available for youth engagement in environmental action. She mentions initiatives like urban forests, organic farming, and climate advocacy campaigns as examples of positive disruptions that transcend age and socioeconomic barriers. The government, too, is taking steps to harness the energy and enthusiasm of its youth. Initiatives like the PM's Talent Hunt Programme are aimed at identifying and nurturing young talent across the country. Under this programme, talented individuals will have the opportunity to participate in national events like the upcoming national games, fostering a sense of pride and achievement among the youth.

Furthermore, the government is actively seeking partnerships with international donors and investors to accelerate its transition to renewable energy. With ambitious targets set for 2030, including 60% clean energy production and 30% electric vehicles, Pakistan is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable development. Despite these efforts, challenges remain. Limited resources, bureaucratic hurdles, and a lack of coordination often hinder youth-led initiatives. However, experts believe that by fostering an enabling environment and providing support for youth-led innovation, Pakistan can overcome these obstacles and emerge as a global leader in climate action.

In a nutshell, Pakistan's youth are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the leaders of today. With their energy, creativity, and passion for change, they have the power to drive meaningful progress in the fight against climate change. By harnessing this youth power and providing them with the necessary support and resources, Pakistan can build a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 16^th, 2024.