Malik calls for global cooperation on climate threats

Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr Musadik Malik has called for international cooperation to address the rapid melting of glaciers, warning that rising temperatures and greenhouse gas emissions are intensifying climate risks.

Addressing a pre-COP31 dialogue in Islamabad, Malik stressed the need for joint international research on mountains and glaciers to better understand the causes and consequences of climate change.

He urged universities around the world to visit Pakistan and work with local researchers to study glaciers and assess the threats facing vulnerable communities. He said stronger scientific collaboration was essential to understanding future climate challenges and developing effective responses.

Malik warned that glacier bursts could cause devastating destruction, adding that rising temperatures and greenhouse gas emissions were contributing to environmental instability. He also highlighted the impact of emissions from neighbouring regions on Pakistan.

The minister said three countries account for approximately 45 to 46 per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions, contributing significantly to rising temperatures, melting glaciers and environmental damage.

He noted that Pakistan contributes less than one per cent of global greenhouse gas emissions but remains highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. He reaffirmed the country’s commitment to reducing emissions and pursuing a more sustainable development path.

Malik also revealed that Pakistan had proposed establishing a Green University to promote environmental innovation, strengthen research and support the transition towards a low-carbon economy.

In a separate initiative, the minister announced that $10 million from his fund had been allocated to young people to help them establish startups in green technology and artificial intelligence (AI). The initiative aims to encourage young entrepreneurs to develop innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

He said investment in youth-led innovation, scientific research and international partnerships would be crucial to tackling climate change and building resilience against future disasters.

The minister emphasised that coordinated global action was needed to protect glaciers, reduce climate risks and support sustainable development, particularly in countries such as Pakistan that face significant environmental threats despite contributing relatively little to global emissions.