Islamabad, In a significant advancement for environmental conservation and climate resilience, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the Italian Embassy, the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS), the Government of Gilgit Baltistan, and EvK2CNR Italy, launched the comprehensive Glaciers Inventory of Pakistan. This extensive study catalogs over 13,000 glaciers, marking a crucial step in enhancing the country’s preparedness for climate-related challenges.
According to United Nations Development Programme, the launch event was hosted by the Italian Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E. Madam Marilina Armellin, at the Italian Residence in Islamabad, with key government and academic figures in attendance. Ambassador Armellin highlighted Italy’s historical contributions to glacier research in Pakistan, dating back to 1929, and emphasized the continued support of the Italian government in climate change mitigation and food security through sustainable water resource management.
Dr. Samuel Rizk, UNDP Pakistan’s Resident Representative, underlined the importance of the Glaciers Inventory for informing government decision-making, noting its potential to bolster climate change disaster preparedness. He expressed gratitude for Italy’s support, which extends beyond glacier management to include enhancing livelihood opportunities and economic conditions in Pakistan’s mountainous regions.
Mr. Agostino Da Polenza, President of EvK2CNR Italy, introduced the Glaciers Inventory, with further insights provided by Mr. Maurizio Gallo, the Glaciers and Students Project Manager, and his team. They detailed the methodologies used in the inventory and discussed the implications of their findings for environmental conservation efforts in Pakistan.
Francesco Zatta, Head of Office at AICS Islamabad, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to building resilience and adapting to climate change within Pakistan’s vulnerable communities. He outlined AICS’s strategic approach, which focuses on mitigating climate impact, enhancing food security, and promoting economic development through job creation, emphasizing the integral role of water management in the development of Gilgit Baltistan.
The Glaciers Inventory of Pakistan not only provides a critical resource for policymakers and researchers but also sets a foundation for future strategic planning in glacier conservation, water management, and climate adaptation efforts across Pakistan. The initiative was commended by participants for its role in preserving Pakistan’s natural heritage and supporting the sustainable development of its vulnerable communities.