Lahore: In a significant step toward environmental sustainability, the Punjab government has formulated the “Punjab Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2024,” aimed at addressing the pressing issues of smog, hazardous climate impacts, and greenhouse gas emissions within the province. The plan, which is set for cabinet approval, marks a pivotal move in aligning with Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision for a pollution and smog-free Punjab.

According to Punjab Portal announcement issued on 10 August 2024, the policy was discussed and refined during a meeting chaired by Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb. The Secretary of Environment and Climate Change, who presented the proposed manuscript, provided an exhaustive briefing on the strategies intended to mitigate climate change effects, including innovative water conservation techniques, the establishment of small dams, and the integration of climate change education into school curriculums.

The plan outlines several key initiatives such as the expansion of the ‘Plant for Pakistan’ campaign, green investments in affected sectors, and the introduction of a ‘Water Quality Monitoring System’ to ensure safe water standards across Punjab. Additionally, the policy proposes climate-friendly interest-free loans to support small businesses adapt to environmental challenges.

Highlighting the urgency of these measures, the document details Punjab’s current environmental burden with an annual emission of approximately 95 thousand kilotonnes of greenhouse gases and over 7 thousand kilotonnes of health-injurious gases, pinpointing major urban centers like Lahore and Rawalpindi as hot spots for high temperatures and pollution.

Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb emphasized the global relevance of climate change, noting its severe implications on human and animal life. She stressed the necessity of community-wide awareness and proactive engagement to combat the toxic effects of environmental degradation effectively.

The meeting also reviewed proposals for experimental programs to conserve rainwater in government buildings and discussed strategic plans to prevent famine in South Punjab through special management strategies.