Environmental activism

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A few years ago, I stood among thousands of people at a climate march, holding a placard that read: There is no Planet B. The energy was electrifying, the voices determined, and for the first time, I truly felt the weight of environmental activism. It is more than just protests or petitions - it is a call to protect our shared home.

Environmental activism is no longer an abstract movement led by scientists or policymakers; it has become deeply personal for millions worldwide. One of the most striking demonstrations took place on September 27, 2019, when approximately 100,000 people gathered at Vancouver City Hall, joining millions across the globe, to demand immediate action on climate change. It was Vancouver's largest protest in 35 years, proving that climate concerns are no longer confined to policy rooms - they are on the streets, in homes, and on the minds of ordinary people like us.

What is it that motivates someone to take a stand? Personal connection to nature plays a significant role. Growing up, I spent summers near the Indus River, marveling at its vastness. But in recent years, seeing its declining water levels and increasing pollution made me realise how fragile our environment truly is. Studies confirm that those who feel connected to nature adopt sustainable behaviours - whether it's reducing waste, conserving energy, or advocating for policy changes. But environmental activism extends beyond personal habits; it is about seeing oneself as part of a larger movement.

Movements led by organisations like Greenpeace and 350.org have shown how activism can influence policies. We have seen governments tighten regulations on carbon emissions, phase out fossil fuels, and invest in renewable energy - all because public pressure left them no choice. However, there are still many hurdles. Governments and corporations often resist meaningful change, prioritising short-term economic gains over long-term environmental sustainability.

When I observe countries like Sweden, Germany and New Zealand, I see how strong green political parties are reshaping national environmental policies, setting a global benchmark for sustainability. Sweden's Green Party has been pivotal in pushing carbon neutrality and renewable energy goals, striving for a fossil fuel-free future by 2045 through investments in hydroelectric and wind energy. In Germany, Alliance 90/The Greens has led the Energiewende (energy transition), promoting solar and wind power, which has resulted in strict climate regulations, carbon pricing, and green technology advancements. Similarly, New Zealand's Green Party champions biodiversity protection, eco-friendly urban planning, and plastic waste reduction. Australia, Canada and the UK are also witnessing growing green political movements. All that goes to underscore that environmental activism is not just about advocacy; it is, in fact, a political force, shaping policy, climate action, and economic transformation worldwide.

Closer to home, Pakistan's environmental movement is gaining momentum, but it still has a long way to go. With the country battling deforestation, pollution and climate-induced disasters, environmental activism is no longer an option - it is a necessity. Political parties have launched initiatives like Sindh's Mangrove Restoration Project and Punjab's Green Development Program, but their impact remains limited due to policy inconsistencies and poor execution. Government's commitment to sustainability is often overshadowed by infrastructure projects that harm the very environment they claim to protect.

Pakistan must move beyond symbolic environmental efforts and embed climate resilience into its core policies. Cross-party collaboration, strict governance, and public accountability are essential for protecting natural resources and ensuring long-term sustainability. If people from diverse age groups, ethnicities, religions and political backgrounds can unite for climate marches worldwide, Pakistanis can also come together to demand stronger environmental policies.