Experts Call for Urgent Climate Action at Post-COP29 Panel

Hina Afzal Durrani

Islamabad: Climate change experts and stakeholders gathered at COMSATS University late Wednesday to emphasize the need for swift and effective action to combat the escalating challenges posed by climate change.

The panel discussion, themed “Climate Change and Pakistan: Deciphering COP-29,” aimed to unpack the outcomes of this year’s international climate summit and their implications for Pakistan.

The event was organized by the Climate Action Forum (CAF) in collaboration with several prominent organizations, including the Institute of Rural Management (IRM), Secours Islamique France (SIF), the National Cleaner Production Center (NCPC), the Trust for Voluntary Organizations (TVO), The Asia Foundation (TAF), and ALIGHT.

It attracted a diverse audience of government officials, professionals, students, and concerned citizens seeking insights into the opportunities and challenges stemming from COP-29.

The discussion opened with a welcome address by Dr. Irman Shehzad, Chairman of the Meteorology Department at COMSATS University.

Prominent panellists included Dr. Roomi S. Hayat, CEO of IRM and Chairperson of CAF; Dr. Altaf Abro, Head of Mission at SIF; Fawad Hayat, Senior Director of Recharge Pakistan and WWF; Mahmood Akhtar Cheema, Country Representative of IUCN; and Dr. Anjum from IRS.

The speakers provided a comprehensive analysis of COP-29 outcomes, focusing on their relevance to Pakistan’s climate resilience efforts.

Dr. Altaf Abro discussed the $300 billion in climate finance pledged at COP-29 and how Pakistan could strategically access and utilize these funds to support its most vulnerable communities.

Domestic Efforts Are Key

Dr. Roomi S. Hayat stressed the importance of localized efforts in addressing climate challenges. “While international support is crucial, the real change must come from within Pakistan. Institutions and stakeholders need to prioritize both mitigation and adaptation strategies to protect the nation’s future,” he emphasized.

Recharge Pakistan

Highlighting the role of WWF’s Recharge Pakistan project, Fawad Hayat detailed its impact in strengthening the country’s climate resilience. He also praised Pakistan’s efforts at COP-29, where the nation effectively advocated for climate justice on the global stage.

Gender Action Plan 

Mahmood Akhtar Cheema of IUCN shared insights into the organization’s contributions, including the development of the Gender Action Plan, which received significant recognition at COP-29.

The event concluded with a call to action for collective responsibility in tackling climate change. The panellists underscored the importance of leveraging international support, implementing innovative projects, and fostering collaboration among institutions to build a sustainable and climate-resilient Pakistan.

The Report has been published in APP on December 18, 2024.