By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Minister for Climate Change, Musadik Masood Malik, underlined the urgent need to protect forests and wetlands as central components of the country’s strategy to confront climate change.
Speaking at an event in Islamabad marking World Wetlands Day, he warned that the degradation of these natural resources not only threatens biodiversity but also increases the vulnerability of communities to natural disasters. Highlighting the severe human and economic toll of floods, storms, and other climate-related events, he stressed that climate change is no longer a distant threat but a pressing challenge with immediate consequences for lives and livelihoods.
“Our forests and wetlands act as natural buffers against disasters, and preserving them is crucial for both environmental sustainability and social resilience,” Malik said. The minister also drew attention to steps being taken to improve waste management and treatment across the country. He explained that a comprehensive plan had been devised to address the growing challenges of urban waste, water pollution, and improper disposal practices, which further exacerbate the impacts of climate change.
According to Malik, integrating waste management with conservation efforts would strengthen the capacity of ecosystems to withstand environmental shocks while promoting public health. Officials at the event emphasized that protecting wetlands is particularly critical, as these habitats serve as breeding grounds for wildlife, help regulate water cycles, and act as natural carbon sinks.
Malik’s remarks reflected a broader government focus on sustainable development policies that balance environmental preservation with economic growth. Environmentalists attending the event welcomed the commitments, noting that translating plans into tangible action would be essential to mitigating Pakistan’s escalating climate risks.
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