Islamabad, Romina Khurshid Alam, the Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, stressed the critical role of youth in combating plastic pollution at the conclusion of the Margalla Hills Half-Marathon. She highlighted that young people’s active participation is essential for advancing Pakistan’s environmental goals, particularly in reducing plastic waste which poses a significant threat to ecosystems and human health.

According to Press Information Department, Alam expressed during the event that the government is actively seeking cooperation from all stakeholders to address the escalating problem of plastic pollution. The half-marathon, organized by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination alongside the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board and various civil society organizations, drew around 200 participants and served as a platform for raising awareness about environmental degradation caused by plastics.

Alam underscored the importance of educating and engaging young people to drive sustainable policies, develop green industries, and initiate or join environmentally friendly businesses. She pointed out that the youth, as the frontline defenders against environmental degradation, are crucial in ensuring a plastic-free environment. Moreover, Alam urged the youth to take leadership roles in advocating for reduced plastic use and fostering behavioral change in their communities.

The event also underscored the broad impact of plastic pollution, affecting diverse communities disproportionately and emphasized the global need for cooperation as outlined in the UN Global Treaty to End Plastic Pollution. Alam expressed optimism about the strong support for the treaty from governments and businesses worldwide, driven by global consumer advocacy against plastic pollution.