Islamabad: The Standing Committee on Climate Change and Environmental Coordination met on Wednesday to bolster federal and provincial efforts in addressing Pakistan’s environmental challenges. The session, led by Chairperson Ms. Munaza Hassan, emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation across government levels to tackle issues from urban resilience to agricultural water management, particularly in the lead-up to the global COP 29 conference.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the committee discussed significant initiatives such as the “Living Indus” project and glacier monitoring programs, pressing for more robust coordination to ensure their effective implementation. The meeting also reviewed progress in the Green Pakistan Program, which has seen the planting of 2.2 billion trees, and explored further actions necessary for lake conservation and mitigating risks in disaster-prone areas.

As COP 29 approaches, the Ministry outlined its strategy to highlight Pakistan’s efforts on the international stage, focusing on climate justice and renewable energy initiatives. The committee showed particular interest in the plans to engage global stakeholders and demonstrate Pakistan’s leadership in climate action.

Additionally, the session addressed legislative matters, deferring the Pakistan Environmental Protection (Amendment) Bill, 2024, for further discussion. The meeting drew attendance from multiple members of the National Assembly and senior ministry officials, underlining the high priority placed on environmental issues and intergovernmental collaboration.