Climate change is one of the major global challenges of the present era and required collective efforts by the government, educational institutions, civil society, the private sector and the public. These views were expressed by Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar, while addressing an event titled ‘COP in My City’ at the University of Lahore on Monday.
Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar said that healthy and pollution-free environment has great significance for the true growth of sports culture. “A clean and healthy environment is essential for promoting a positive sports culture, as it provides athletes with safe, hygienic and pleasant spaces to train, compete and maintain their fitness. Clean sports facilities and surroundings also played a key role in fostering a culture of discipline and healthy sports activities”.
Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar said that practical measures are being taken to protect the environment and control pollution across Punjab under the leadership of CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz. “Building a clean and green Punjab is among the government's top priorities. Public cooperation and responsible behaviour are equally essential to achieving this objective”.
Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar emphasized that environmental protection is not solely the responsibility of the government but a shared duty of every citizen. “No government could tackle the far-reaching and complex challenge of climate change on its own. Therefore, civil society, educational institutions, the business community and citizens must play their active roles in improving the environment”.
Highlighting the significance of youth, Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar stressed that youth are the future of the country and raising their awareness about the impacts of climate change, air pollution, water conservation, plantation and the responsible use of natural resources is essential. “It is need of the hour to encourage students to contribute actively to environmental protection and promote sustainable practices in their communities”.
Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar stressed that protecting the environment for future generations was a shared responsibility and that public awareness must be translated into meaningful and practical action. “The establishment of a clean, green and healthy Punjab required the collective commitment of all segments of society”.
Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar observed that issues such as smog and environmental pollution had not received the required attention in the past. However, the PML-N government had taken climate change and environmental protection seriously. “Consistent planning, effective measures and public awareness were essential to addressing environmental challenges and ensuring a clean and healthy environment for citizens”.
Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar further stated that organizing special lectures, seminars and awareness activities on climate change and environmental protection at universities is a positive initiative. “Educational institutions could play a vital role not only in raising environmental awareness among young people but also in addressing environmental challenges through research, modern scientific approaches and practical initiatives”.