Islamabad: Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, Romina Khurshid Alam, addressed the pivotal role of youth in developing environmentally sustainable cities during a speech on World Habitat Day at NUST. The event emphasized the integration of climate adaptation strategies in urban planning to counteract extreme weather conditions and ensure equitable, sustainable development.

According to Press Information Department, Alam pointed out that cities, which contribute to 70% of global carbon emissions, should focus on sectors like transport, buildings, energy, and waste management to implement eco-friendly practices. She noted the building sector’s significant impact, responsible for 39% of global emissions, and called for a fundamental transformation to achieve eco-responsible development. Alam stressed leveraging young people’s energy, creativity, and perspectives to foster resilient smart cities aimed at a pollution and carbon emissions free future.

The Global World Habitat Day, observed under the theme “Engaging youth to create a better urban future,” highlighted the necessity of involving youth in shaping sustainable cities and communities. Alam cited research indicating that by 2050, two-thirds of the global population will reside in urban areas, with nearly 90% of this growth occurring in Asia and Africa. She emphasized the current rapid urbanization and the significant proportion of young urban residents, particularly in Africa and Asia, where youth make up over 70% of some cities’ populations.

Alam concluded by emphasizing the importance of mobilizing all society segments to support the development of inclusive and green cities, ensuring a sustainable and equitable urban future.