Independent Report
Islamabad, Oct. 07. Romina Khurshid Alam, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, emphasized the vital role of youth in shaping environmentally sustainable cities at a World Habitat Day event held at NUST. Alam stressed that cities must incorporate climate adaptation strategies into urban planning to mitigate extreme weather risks ¹.
“Youth energy, creativity, and viewpoints are crucial for sustainable, equitable development and resilient smart cities,” Alam noted, highlighting the significance of engaging young people in shaping sustainable cities and communities. This year’s Global World Habitat Day theme, “Engaging youth to create a better urban future,” underscores the importance of youth-led initiatives in addressing climate change challenges.
Alam also pointed out that cities account for a staggering 70% of global carbon emissions, primarily due to transport and building sectors. This statistic reinforces the need for innovative, youth-driven solutions to reduce urban carbon footprints.
Globally, youth are already making a significant impact in climate action. Young leaders are pioneering initiatives like the Plastic Free July campaign, FridaysForFuture, and The Ocean Cleanup, inspiring millions to take action ². The World Economic Forum’s Centre for Nature and Climate is also supporting youth-led initiatives and promoting sustainable development ².
By empowering youth to take charge of climate action, we can create a better, more sustainable future for all. As Alam emphasized, it’s time to harness the strength of youth to promote climate action and protect the environment.
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