EPA, GCU to collaborate on climate action in Punjab

LAHORE:The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Punjab, hosted “COP in My City 2024” at Government College University (GCU) Lahore on Monday, bringing together youth, policymakers, and environmental experts to foster collaboration and drive effective climate action across Punjab.

The event featured a photography, poster, and 3D Model Competition, with 110 students from 22 educational institutions from AJK, Sindh, and Punjab participating. Parliamentary Secretary for Environment Kanwal Liaqat and GCU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Shazia Bashir praised the students' work, highlighting the importance of creative engagement in addressing environmental issues.

A panel discussion titled "In Solidarity for a Green World: Strengthening Inter-Sectoral Linkages for Climate Action in Punjab" was held, where speakers emphasised the urgent need for innovative solutions, stronger environmental policies, and community involvement to ensure impactful climate action.

In his keynote address, Secretary, EP&CCD, Raja Jahangir Anwar underscored the importance of tree plantation, sectoral collaboration with environmental agencies, and implementing measures to combat smog. He urged everyone to contribute to environmental preservation and stressed that the event provided a platform for young voices to express their concerns and ideas regarding environmental sustainability, encouraging future leaders to actively engage in tackling climate change. The panel discussion, moderated by GCU's Sustainable Development Study Centre Director, Prof Dr Faiza Sharif, explored sustainability challenges and innovations across various sectors in Punjab.

Panelists included EPA DG Dr Imran Hamid Sheikh, PRGMEA Chairman Dr Ayyaz-ud-Din, Professor Dr Amin-ul-Haq Khan, Assistant Advocate General, Punjab, Asghar Leghari, and Chief Environment, P&D Board, Ms Saba Asghar Ali. The event concluded with the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between GCU and the Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The agreement, signed by Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Shazia Bashir and DG EPA Dr Imran Hamid Sheikh, aims to enhance collaboration between the two institutions in advancing environmental sustainability initiatives.