HYDERABAD: Participants of a climate action programme held on Friday described deforestation the leading cause of rising temperatures in Matiari district, where degradation of riverine area forests significantly impacted biodiversity, human health, livelihoods and agriculture.

They emphasised the need for collective action to revive forests and address climate change challenges.

The programme was organised by the Sindh Community Foundation (SCF) to highlight climate change-related activities being undertaken by the Pakistan Youth Leadership Initiative (PYLI) with the support from British Council at H.T. Sorley Hall, Bhitshah.

Over 200 people, including environmentalists, government officials and civil society activists are engaged in the activities. Activists of environmental organisations presented their working which focused various themes.

SCF head Javed Hussain highlighted devastating effects of climate change on Matiari district and held deforestation in the adjoining riverine area responsible for the rising temperatures and reduced agricultural productivity. He pointed out that cotton production had drastically declined.

He said that the SCF had trained 252 youths, including women, through workshops on environmental management, renewable energy, tree plantation, waste management and community action planning.

He said these programmes enabled the youth to implement 52 community-led climate actions over three months, focusing on sustainability and education. “This initiative has demonstrated power of youth to act as environmental leaders,” he said. He said these young leaders were driving meaningful community change and preparing to combat climate challenges.”

Saba Hakeem, the Project Manager at the British Council, emphasised critical role of youth-driven efforts in building resilience and addressing climate challenges with innovative solutions.

Published in Dawn, December 7th, 2024