‘Pakistan committed to protecting ozone layer’

Islamabad:Coordinator to the prime minister on climate change Romina Khurshid Alam on Monday said Pakistan had demonstrated a strong commitment to protecting the ozone layer through participation in international agreements, implementation of national policies, and collaboration with global partners.

"Our efforts to phase out damaging substances 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 aide told a dialogue among national experts regarding the World Ozone Day at the climate change ministry. She reaffirmed the government’s commitment to preserving the ozone layer and combating climate change.

Romina said that there was pressing the 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 the 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,” she 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 said.

Highlighting Pakistan’s efforts for phase-out of ozone-depleting gases, she said the country contained use of the first generation of ozone depleting substances by 2009 and achieved a 50% reduction in drochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) by January 2020. The PM’s aide said the country, having transitioned many industries to ozone-friendly technologies Pakistan was also on track to meet its 67.5% reduction target by 2025.

“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 Montreal Protocol, an international agreement to gradually reduce the consumption and production of HFCs. Secretary of the climate change ministry Aisha Humera Ch. said that World Ozone Day 2024 was a testament to the collective efforts of nations in addressing one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.

She said Pakistan was proud of the progress it had shown and remains resolute in our commitment to protecting the ozone layer and combating climate change. She said Pakistan would continue working diligently to ensure a healthier environment for current and future generations. She said the protection of the ozone layer was integral to ensuring a stable climate and a healthy environment as the ongoing initiatives and international collaborations reflected Pakistan’s dedication to these goals. “As we move forward, our focus will remain on implementing effective solutions and fostering public awareness,” she said.