Environmental Protection a Shared Responsibility, Says NA Speaker on World Environment Day
ISLAMABAD: On the occasion of World Environment Day, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq emphasized that safeguarding the environment is a collective responsibility—not just the government’s. He stressed that every citizen must play an active role in preserving the planet for future generations.
In his special message issued on June 5, the Speaker highlighted the critical role Pakistan’s Parliament plays in promoting environmental awareness and passing meaningful legislation. “Providing a clean, green, and safe environment is not a luxury—it’s a basic right of future generations,” he stated.
Despite contributing only 0.5% to global greenhouse gas emissions, Pakistan is among the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Sardar Ayaz Sadiq warned that rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, melting glaciers, and frequent floods are already taking a toll on the nation’s environment, economy, and public health.
He pointed out that unchecked environmental degradation is a major barrier to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “If we fail to act now with urgency and unity, we risk even greater climate-related losses,” he cautioned.
The Speaker praised the work of parliamentary committees dedicated to environmental issues. He cited initiatives such as nationwide tree plantation drives, conservation of water resources, air pollution control measures, and efforts to promote environmental education across the country.
He also noted key legislative milestones, including the Pakistan Climate Change Act of 2017 and Pakistan’s ratification of the Paris Agreement in 2015, as evidence of the country’s ongoing commitment to climate action.
Calling for international solidarity, Sadiq appealed to the global community to support developing countries like Pakistan, which face disproportionate climate challenges despite contributing the least to global emissions.
Deputy Speaker Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah echoed these concerns, emphasizing that environmental degradation endangers not only public health but also biodiversity, agriculture, and economic stability.
In closing, the Speaker urged all citizens especially the youth to adopt sustainable lifestyles and take ownership of the country’s environmental future. “The fight for a healthier planet begins with individual actions. Together, we can build a safer, more sustainable world,” he said.
