PM Shehbaz Stresses Recycling, Responsible Use on Earth Day

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Islamabad: As the international community commemorates Earth Day on Monday, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has called upon the citizens to renew their dedication to responsible plastic usage, aiming to diminish plastic waste while embracing recycling and eco-friendly alternatives.

Annually celebrated on April 22, this year’s Earth Day is themed “Planet vs. Plastics.

“As we unite to observe this day under the theme, “Planet vs. Plastics,” which calls for a 60 percent reduction in plastic use by 2040, let us reaffirm our commitment to using plastic responsibly to mitigate plastic waste. This waste not only pollutes our oceans, lakes, and rivers but also infiltrates our food systems, posing a direct and serious threat to human health,” stated the Prime Minister in a message to the nation.

He appealed to the people to pledge to reduce the use of single-use plastics, adopt recycling and eco-friendly alternatives, and advocate for stronger environmental policies at every level of society.

Referring to Earth Day as a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect our planet, both for the present and future generations, he highlighted that despite Pakistan being one of the most climate-vulnerable countries, there is still insufficient awareness regarding the risks of climate change, which threatens the development, well-being, and economic security of its citizens.

“Year after year, we witness the devastating impacts of climate change – from shifting seasonal weather patterns to rising temperatures, variability in monsoons, and the melting of glaciers in the north. These challenges are further compounded by recurrent extreme weather events and natural disasters, along with the gradual effects such as sea level rise, warming seas, and loss of ecosystems,” stated the Prime Minister.

He emphasized that the effects of climate change have worsened over time, placing the country at an even greater economic and physical risk. Recognizing this urgency, he stressed the need for bold and decisive actions to confront these challenges and enhance resilience in the face of adversity.

The Prime Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to lead the charge in addressing climate change. 

He mentioned the initiation of an extensive consultative process involving line ministries, provincial environment departments, the ICT administration, industries, and other relevant stakeholders.

This process aims to develop Single-Use Plastics (Prohibition) Regulations, 2023, as well as restrictions on the use of Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) bottles in federal ministries/divisions.

“These initiatives underscore our commitment towards promoting a sustainable circular economy for plastics by reducing waste, and consumption, and encouraging reuse, recycling, and material recovery. To achieve a plastic-free society and effectively combat the escalating issue of plastic pollution in Pakistan, it is imperative to address the underlying causes and promote a holistic approach for managing plastic waste,” the prime minister remarked. 

Highlighting the pivotal role of provincial governments and local authorities, the Prime Minister emphasized the citizens’ responsibility in safeguarding the planet for the prosperity of all.

Recalling Pakistan’s natural treasures such as majestic mountains, dense forests, and pristine lakes and coasts, he underscored society’s duty to preserve them.

“From conserving nature to mitigating the impacts of climate change on people and their livelihoods, Pakistan remains committed to forging a path toward a sustainable, cleaner, and greener future,” he resolved.