Muhammad irshad ullah
PESHAWAR: A one-day session on “The Role of Citizens in Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation” was held at Abasyn University, Peshawar, in collaboration with the Center for Peace and Development Initiatives (CPDI) and Individualland.
The event brought together key stakeholders, including Noor Alam Khan, Provincial Project Coordinator of CPDI, Aziz Ahmad, Project Coordinator at Individualland, and university students.
During the session, Saima William, CPDI’s climate change mitigation expert, highlighted the severe impacts of climate change currently affecting Pakistan, such as glacier melting, rising temperatures, air pollution, and flash floods.
She stressed the importance of collective action, emphasizing that climate change affects all sectors of society and requires a coordinated response from the government, media, community-based organizations, and youth. “Pakistan can only tackle the impacts of climate change through the timely and active involvement of its citizens,” she stated.
The session included interactive activities aimed at building students’ capacity to address climate change, with participants pledging to reduce plastic use, properly dispose of waste, plant trees, and ensure their care.
Noor Alam Khan, CPDI Project Coordinator, underscored the crucial role of youth in mitigating the long-term effects of climate change. “Each individual must take personal responsibility in contributing to the solution,” he said.
Aziz Ahmad, Project Coordinator at Individualland, noted that both urban and rural communities are equally affected by climate change, facing issues such as extreme temperatures, urban floods, and the loss of wildlife. He emphasized the need for urgent action and the adoption of safe, sustainable practices to mitigate these effects.
The session concluded with a renewed commitment from all attendees to play an active role in combating climate change and protecting the environment for future generations.
