Pakistan Strengthens Efforts to Combat Ozone Layer Depletion

Ali Jabir

Islamabad: Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, Romina Khurshid Alam, emphasized Pakistan’s strong commitment to global efforts in protecting the ozone layer through its participation in international agreements, national policy implementation, and collaboration with global partners.

Addressing the national experts’ dialogue on World Ozone Day 2024, organized by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, she highlighted that Pakistan’s phase-out initiatives under the Montreal Protocol have been globally recognized as a case study for restoring and preserving the ozone layer for future generations.

On the occasion of World Ozone Day 2024, observed globally under the theme “Ozone for Life: Solutions for a Warming Planet,” Alam reaffirmed the government’s dedication to protecting the ozone layer and combating climate change.

She stressed that this year’s theme underscores the critical role of the ozone layer in safeguarding life on Earth and the link between ozone protection and climate action. The theme also emphasizes the importance of continued international cooperation and innovative solutions to tackle these interconnected environmental challenges.

World Ozone Day is observed annually on September 16 to celebrate the adoption of the Montreal Protocol, raise awareness about the ozone layer’s importance, and reinforce the global commitment to addressing environmental sustainability challenges.

Alam further stressed the need to engage stakeholders—including educational institutions and media practitioners—to raise awareness about the significance of the ozone layer, which shields life on Earth by blocking harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

“Failing to protect the ozone layer poses serious risks to human health and environmental sustainability, increasing the incidences of skin cancer, cataracts, and damaging ecosystems,” she warned. However, she highlighted that Pakistan remains committed to adhering to the Montreal Protocol’s goals.

Pakistan has successfully phased out the use of first-generation ozone-depleting substances by 2009 and achieved a 50 percent reduction in hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) by January 2020.

Alam noted that the country is on track to meet its 67.5 percent reduction target by 2025, with many industries already transitioning to ozone-friendly technologies. She also emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to the upcoming phase-down of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.

Secretary of the Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Ministry, Aisha Humera Ch., acknowledged World Ozone Day 2024 as a testament to the collective global efforts in addressing one of the most pressing environmental challenges. She expressed pride in Pakistan’s progress and reiterated the country’s determination to continue protecting the ozone layer and combating climate change.

“World Ozone Day serves as a powerful reminder of the collective effort required to protect our planet’s delicate balance,” Humera remarked, adding that Pakistan will continue to contribute to global ozone protection initiatives for the benefit of current and future generations.

Parliamentary Secretary for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Rana Ahmed Ateeq Sarwar, outlined future actions, emphasizing that Pakistan will remain committed to achieving phase-out targets for remaining ozone-depleting substances and addressing emerging challenges. He stressed the need to enhance regulatory frameworks, invest in research and development, raise public awareness, and promote sustainable practices across all sectors.