Raising awareness among all stakeholders is crucial concerning the importance and protection of the ozone layer, said Coordinator to Prime Minister on Climate Change, Romina Khurshid Alam while addressing as a chief guest on the occasion of World Ozone Day 2024, globally entitled as "Ozone for Life: Solutions for a Warming Planet", held here on Monday. She said, “Ozone layer blocks the harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun to reach earth. Pakistan recognises the importance of this protective shield and has committed to adhering to adhere to goals of the Montreal Protocol, an international agreement to gradually reduce the consumption and production of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). Pakistan is keen to meet 67.5% reduction target by 2025 by transitioning industrial units to ozone-friendly technologies. Pakistan’s efforts to restore and preserve the ozone layer has been globally recognised and presented as a case study. Now, Pakistan is ready for the forthcoming hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) phase-down under the Kigali Amendment to the said agreement.

She reaffirmed the present government’s dedication to preserving the ozone layer and combating climate change. Romina Khurshid highlighted that this year’s theme emphasises the critical role of the ozone layer to protect life on Earth. It reflects the continuous efforts of all stakeholders globally to address both ozone depletion and global warming. Highlighting, Pakistan’s efforts for phase-out of ozone-depleting gases, she said that the country contained use of first generation of ozone depleting substances by 2009 and achieved a 50% reduction in Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) by January 2020. Secretary climate change & environmental coordination ministry Aisha Humera Ch. said that World Ozone Day 2024 is a testament to the collective efforts of nations in addressing one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. Pakistan is proud of the progress we have made and remains resolute in our commitment to 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,” the climate change ministry secretary remarked.

She said Pakistan is proud to be a part of the global movement to preserve the ozone layer, and we will continue to work diligently to ensure a healthier environment for current and future generations. She said further that the protection of the ozone layer is integral to ensuring a stable climate and a healthy environment. Our ongoing initiatives and international collaborations reflect Pakistan’s dedication to these goals. “As we move forward, our focus will remain on implementing effective solutions and fostering public awareness,” the climate change ministry secretary stressed. Spelling out future actions for contributing to ozone layer protection efforts at global level, protecting ozone layer, Parliamentary Secretary of the climate change & environmental coordination Rana Ahmed Ateeq Sarwar said that looking ahead, Pakistan would remain committed to achieving the phase-out targets for remaining ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and addressing any emerging challenges that pose risks to ozone layer. “More efforts would be taken to strengthen the country’s regulatory framework regarding protection of ozone layer, enhance invest in research and development, raise public awareness and promote sustainable practices across all sectors,” he emphasised.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan