Islamabad, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif marked Earth Day 2024 by issuing a message that emphasized the shared responsibility of protecting the planet for future generations. He highlighted the significance of this year’s theme, “Planet vs. Plastics,” which calls for a 60% reduction in plastic use by 2040, urging a concerted effort to reduce plastic waste and its impact on the environment.
According to Press Information Department, the Prime Minister underscored the threats posed by climate change and plastic pollution, noting that plastic waste is not only polluting oceans, lakes, and rivers but also infiltrating food systems, posing serious health risks. Pakistan, among the most climate-vulnerable countries, faces an array of challenges, including changing weather patterns, rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and increased frequency of extreme weather events.
In response to these threats, the Government of Pakistan has launched initiatives to tackle plastic pollution and promote a sustainable circular economy. The Prime Minister mentioned the Single-Use Plastics (Prohibition) Regulations, 2023, and restrictions on the use of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) bottles in federal ministries and divisions as examples of efforts to reduce plastic waste.
Prime Minister Sharif called for a holistic approach to managing plastic waste and stressed the importance of Provincial Governments and local authorities in reducing single-use plastics. He appealed to all Pakistanis to join the effort to reduce plastic use, embrace recycling and eco-friendly alternatives, and advocate for stronger environmental policies.
The Prime Minister’s message also highlighted Pakistan’s natural beauty, from awe-inspiring mountains to dense forests and pristine coasts, reminding citizens of the profound responsibility to protect these resources. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to building a sustainable, cleaner, and greener future.
The message serves as a call to action for individuals, governments, and organizations to take bold steps to address climate change and plastic pollution, ensuring a healthier planet for generations to come.