Lahore: The Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, has officially approved the region’s inaugural Climate Change Policy and Action Plan. This comprehensive strategy aims to tackle the multifaceted challenges of climate change while positioning Punjab as a leader in sustainable development within Pakistan.
According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab announcement issued on 10 September 2024, this landmark policy, spearheaded by Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, encompasses a 47-page document that addresses all aspects of climate mitigation, forest conservation, wildlife protection, and pollution reduction. The plan was devised through extensive consultations with both national and international environmental experts, incorporating contributions from civil society, academia, and environmental organizations.
The policy emerges against the backdrop of significant environmental challenges faced by Punjab, which accounts for over half of Pakistan’s GDP but is increasingly vulnerable to climate-related disruptions. The province has endured substantial economic losses due to adverse climate events, with recent data highlighting the dire impacts of heatwaves, forest fires, floods, and changing rainfall patterns.
The newly ratified policy details specific measures aimed at enhancing water resources management, bolstering biodiversity, and improving disaster preparedness and health outcomes across the province. These initiatives include ambitious targets such as a 5% increase in green areas by 2027, comprehensive disaster risk assessments for all at-risk districts within three years, and the development of modern flood management infrastructures by 2030.
Furthermore, the action plan sets forth long-term goals for 2030 and 2035, focusing on significant enhancements in water regulation, a 15% increase in forest coverage, a shift towards renewable energy sources to meet 60% of Punjab’s energy demands, and a 25% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
A special committee, led by Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, will oversee the implementation of the policy, ensuring that the set objectives are met and that Punjab progresses towards a sustainable and climate-resilient future.