By Ali Imran
ISLAMABAD: Coordinator to Prime Minister on Climate Change, Romina Khurshid Alam said that Pakistan has demonstrated a strong commitment and played it role as a part of global efforts to protect the ozone layer through its participation in international agreements, implementation of national policies, and collaboration with global partners.
The country’s efforts in phase-out initiatives under the Montreal protocol to restore and preserve the ozone layer for future generations has been globally recognised and presented as a case study, the PM’s climate aide highlighted while addressing as a chief guest at the national experts’ dialogue regarding the World Ozone Day 2024 held here on Monday in the climate change & environmental coordination ministry.
On the occasion of World Ozone Day 2024 being marked today globally under the theme “Ozone for Life: Solutions for a Warming Planet”, she reaffirmed the present government’s dedication to preserving the ozone layer and combating climate change.
Romina Khurshid Alam highlighted that this year’s theme emphasises the critical role of the ozone layer in protecting life on Earth and highlights the interconnectedness of ozone layer protection and climate action. It reflects the ongoing efforts to address both ozone depletion and global warming, reinforcing the importance of continued international cooperation and innovative solutions to tackle these environmental challenges.
The United Nations’ annual Ozone Day is observed every year on September 16, aiming celebrate the adoption of the Montreal Protocol and raises awareness about the importance of the ozone layer. It also serves as a reminder of the global commitment to protecting this vital component of Earth’s atmosphere and addressing the broader challenges of environmental sustainability.
The PM’s coordinator said that there is pressing need to engage all stakeholders’ including educational institutions and media practitioners and raise their understanding about the importance of the ozone layer, a critical component of Earth’s atmosphere, which protects life by blocking harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
“Not protecting ozone layer is a grave risk for human health and environmental sustainability. Because, its depletion poses various risks including increased incidences of skin cancer, cataracts, and adverse impacts on ecosystems,” Romina Khurshid Alam warned. “However, Pakistan recognises the importance of this protective shield and has committed to adhering to the Montreal Protocol’s goals for the protection of the ozone layer,” she informed the participants.”
Highlighting Pakistan’s efforts for phase-out of ozone-depleting gases, she said that the country contained use of first generation of ozone depleting substances by 2009 and achieved a 50% reduction in drochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) by January 2020.
Pakistan is also on track to meet our 67.5% reduction target by 2025, having transitioned many industries to ozone-friendly technologies, Ms Alam emphasised.
“Our collective determination towards human and environmental sustainability continues as we prepare for the forthcoming hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) phase-down under the Kigali Amendment to the Montoreal Protocol, an international agreement to gradually reduce the consumption and production of HFCs.
Secretary climate change & environmental coordination ministry Aisha Humera Ch. said that World Ozone Day 2024 is a testament to the collective efforts of nations in addressing one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. Pakistan is proud of the progress we have made and remains resolute in our commitment to protecting the ozone layer and combating climate change.
“World Ozone Day serves as a powerful reminder of the collective effort required to protect our planet’s delicate balance,” the climate change ministry secretary remarked.
She said Pakistan is proud to be a part of the global movement to preserve the ozone layer, and we will continue to work diligently to ensure a healthier environment for current and future generations.
She said further that the protection of the ozone layer is integral to ensuring a stable climate and a healthy environment. Our ongoing initiatives and international collaborations reflect Pakistan’s dedication to these goals.
“As we move forward, our focus will remain on implementing effective solutions and fostering public awareness,” the climate change ministry secretary stressed.
Spelling out future actions for contributing to ozone layer protection efforts at global level, protecting ozone layer, Parliamentary Secretary of the climate change & environmental coordination Rana Ahmed Ateeq Sarwar said that looking ahead, Pakistan would remain committed to achieving the phase-out targets for remaining ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and addressing any emerging challenges that pose risks to ozone layer.
“More efforts would be taken to strengthen the country’s regulatory framework regarding protection of ozone layer, enhance invest in research and development, raise public awareness and promote sustainable practices across all sectors,” he emphasised.
