Climate action a responsibility, not a choice, says Zunaira Qayyum on World Environment Day

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 5th Jun, 2026) UNICEF’s Youth Advocate for Climate Action and Girls’ Empowerment in Pakistan, Zunaira Qayyum from Balochistan, used World Environment Day to call for stronger youth involvement in environmental protection, stating that it should not be taken as a choice but understood as a responsibility.

While speaking to a local media outlet on World Environment Day, she highlighted the global importance of the day, which is observed to raise awareness about environmental protection and encourage collective action against climate change.

She emphasized that the occasion serves as a reminder of the urgent need to protect natural resources and promote sustainable living for present and future generations.

She acknowledged the role of UNICEF in promoting climate action, especially through youth engagement, education, and awareness programs focused on environmental protection and girls’ empowerment.

She also appreciated the efforts of government institutions in launching tree plantation drives, environmental policies and awareness campaigns, while stressing that these initiatives must be further strengthened and implemented effectively at the grassroots level.

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She further urged the public to adopt responsible habits such as reducing plastic use, managing waste properly, and participating in tree plantation activities.

She also drew attention to the challenges in Balochistan, particularly how repeated floods have damaged infrastructure and disrupted access to education, especially for girls.

She stressed that environmental disasters are not only ecological issues but also social challenges that directly affect learning opportunities and community development, calling for urgent attention and long-term resilience planning.

Highlighting the importance of awareness writing publications, she encouraged students and youth to actively contribute to spreading environmental knowledge.

Calling on “young bloods” to take the lead, she said that youth involvement is essential in supporting government and UNICEF efforts to build a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future.