By Farzana Chaudhry, Lahore, Pakistan

LAHORE: Punjab Minister for Sports and Energy Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar has said that climate change is one of the major global challenges of the present era and requires collective efforts by the government, educational institutions, civil society, the private sector and the public.

He was addressing an event titled “COP in My City” at the University of Lahore, where he highlighted the importance of environmental protection, public awareness and coordinated efforts to tackle climate change.

The provincial minister said practical measures were being taken across Punjab to protect the environment and control pollution under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. He added that building a clean and green Punjab was among the government’s priorities, while public cooperation and responsible behaviour were equally important to achieving this objective.

Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar emphasized that environmental protection was not solely the responsibility of the government but a shared duty of every citizen. He said no government could address the far-reaching and complex challenges of climate change alone, stressing that civil society, educational institutions, the business community and the public must play their active roles in improving the environment.

He described the organization of special lectures, seminars and awareness activities on climate change and environmental protection at universities as a positive initiative. He said educational institutions could play a vital role in raising environmental awareness among young people and addressing environmental challenges through research, modern scientific approaches and practical initiatives.

The minister said young people were the future of the country and raising their awareness about climate change, air pollution, water conservation, plantation and the responsible use of natural resources was essential. He urged students to contribute actively to environmental protection and promote sustainable practices in their communities.

He observed that issues such as smog and environmental pollution had not received the attention they required in the past. However, he said the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government had taken climate change and environmental protection seriously.

He added that consistent planning, effective measures and public awareness were essential to overcoming environmental challenges and ensuring a clean and healthy environment for citizens.

The provincial minister further stressed that controlling smog and air pollution required not only government action but also a strong sense of responsibility among citizens. Compliance with environmental laws and safety regulations, reducing unnecessary pollution, maintaining cleanliness and adopting environmentally friendly habits could help minimize the harmful effects of pollution.

Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar also emphasized the need to encourage young people, teachers, researchers and social organizations to participate in environmental protection initiatives.

He said linking university research and academic activities with the practical needs of society could help identify effective and sustainable solutions to environmental challenges.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to a clean, green and healthy Punjab, the minister said protecting the environment for future generations was a shared responsibility. He stressed that public awareness must be translated into meaningful and practical action to achieve