Karachi: Prominent academicians and environmentalists gathered at a seminar organized by Sindh Madressatul Islam University (SMIU) to address the pressing issues of plastic pollution, climate change, and agricultural challenges in Pakistan. The event, titled “Echoes of Earth: Voices Against Plastic Pollution,” underscored the country’s vulnerability to environmental threats despite its minimal contribution to global emissions.
Dr. Mujeeb Sahrai, Vice Chancellor of SMIU, expressed concern over the limited impact of existing environmental initiatives. He urged for a collective effort to increase public awareness and advocacy, emphasizing the necessity of educational outreach from urban to rural areas. Dr. Sahrai highlighted the urgent need for increased funding for environmental protection and awareness programs.
The seminar took place in collaboration with the Red Crescent Society (Sindh Branch) as part of World Environment Day activities. Dr. Sahrai pointed out the significant impact of climate change on traditional agricultural practices, noting changes in crop patterns and the diminished quality of produce like mangoes. He stressed the importance of educating farmers about these shifts to mitigate adverse effects.
Participants also addressed the 2022 floods that devastated large parts of Sindh, affecting 35 percent of the population, as a stark reminder of the consequences of environmental neglect. Dr. Sahrai lamented the declining enrollment in environmental studies, calling for greater educational emphasis on environmental challenges and population issues.
Mr. Kanwar Waseem of the Pakistan Red Crescent Society discussed the critical role of behavioral change in addressing environmental challenges. He encouraged students to actively contribute to environmental improvement efforts.
Ms. Sadia Tariq, Program Officer at the Climate Smart Disaster Risk Management Pakistan Red Crescent Society, led the audience in a pledge against plastic pollution, reinforcing the seminar’s call to action.
The seminar concluded with Dr. Hina Shahnaz and other speakers highlighting the need for immediate attention and action to protect Pakistan’s environmental future.