Youth dialogue calls for climate action in Punjab

Youth dialogue calls for climate action in Punjab

A youth-led dialogue on climate action and greater youth participation in policymaking brought together parliamentarians, policymakers, environmental experts, civil society representatives and young people in Punjab.

Pak Mission Society and Forman Christian College University jointly organised the event, where participants discussed climate policy, legislation and the role of young people in shaping environmental decisions.

Parliamentary Secretary for Environment Kanwal Liaqat said Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz had identified climate change as a major priority after assuming office. She said the provincial government had since introduced several measures to address environmental challenges.

Liaqat said brick kilns across Punjab must use zigzag technology to operate, while women environmental inspectors were helping strengthen monitoring and enforcement. She added that authorities were taking action against industries that pollute the air and water and were working to improve the condition of canals, streams and rivers.

The dialogue also examined gaps in Punjab’s climate laws and policies. Members of Green Clubs presented five climate demands developed by children and young people, urging the government to give youth a stronger role in climate governance and policymaking.

The event also featured a session titled “From Dreams to Reality: Advancing Youth-Led Climate Action in Pakistan,” moderated by environmental law expert Ahmed Rafi Alam. The concluding discussion focused on practical measures to address young people’s concerns and develop a roadmap for youth-led climate action in Pakistan.

Participants included Rabia Chaudhry, Waqil Ahmed Khan, Dur-e-Shahwar, Dr Younas Zahid, Ahmed Rafi Alam, Hafiz Usman, Dr Abdul Qadir, Khurram Tauqeer and Shakeela Firdous.