Lahore: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has called on citizens to support the newly launched ‘Plastic and Pollution-Free Punjab’ initiative, marking World Environment Day. Spearheaded by government and private institutions, including schools and the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), the ‘Zero Plastic, Zero Pollution’ campaign seeks to raise awareness about the harmful effects of plastic on public health and the environment.

The campaign focuses on educating the youth and children about the dangers of plastic, particularly its role in air pollution and serious health risks such as cancer. Students are encouraged to adopt sustainable alternatives, like cloth bags and paper products, instead of plastic. EPA officers have stressed the need for both government and private offices to reduce plastic usage significantly.

In conjunction with the campaign, tree plantation activities were organized, underscoring the province’s commitment to environmental protection. In a special message, Chief Minister Sharif urged young people to champion environmental causes, labeling environmental protection as a national duty. She emphasized that the Zero Plastic Campaign should integrate into everyday life, not just as a one-day effort.