SWABI: World Wildlife Fund International president Prof Adil Najam has said that climate change is not a distant reality and it is happening now.

He made the remarks while addressing a gathering of students at Ghulam Ishaq Khan Institute of Engineering Sciences and Technology, according to a statement issued here on Friday.

Prof Najam is a renowned climate change and sustainable development expert.

He delivered a thought-provoking lecture titled ‘Pakistan and climate change in the age of adaptation: a desi (local) perspective’, emphasising the critical need for immediate practical action to address climate change.

“The world has already crossed the critical 1.5°C temperature threshold,” he said, adding that impacts of climate change were already being felt globally. He highlighted the devastating effects of rising sea levels, melting glaciers, micro plastic pollution and shifting geographic ranges.

Dr Najam also reflected on the catastrophic 2022 floods in Pakistan that displaced 33 million people and wreaked havoc on lives and livelihoods. He emphasised the need for “extraordinary measures to adapt to and mitigate the impact of climate change” while recognising the immense challenge posed by this global crisis.

Prof Najam also shared a personal connection with the GIK Institute during his talk, saying, “It was my dream to join this esteemed institution after completing my PhD. Being here today fulfils a long-held aspiration.”

Eng Salim Saifullah Khan, president of Society for Promotion of Engineering Sciences and Technology in Pakistan (Soprest), the parent body of GIK Institute, praised Prof Najam’s contributions to global policy and sustainable development, stating that he is a source of immense pride for Pakistan.

“His pioneering work inspires us to honour and celebrate the achievements of individuals making a difference on the global stage,” Saifullah added.

Shakil Durrani, the executive director of Soprest, Prof Fazal A Khalid, Rector GIK Institute, faculty members and students attended the gathering.

Dr Najam’s visit highlighted GIK Institute’s commitment to fostering critical dialogue on pressing global environment and sustainability issues and preparing its students to become leaders in creating a sustainable future.

The session also featured Robert Whales aka Rabnawaz, senior director programmes at WWF Pakistan, who highlighted the organisation’s efforts to combat climate challenges in Pakistan and showcased WWF Pakistan’s impactful initiatives in conservation and sustainability.

Published in Dawn, November 23rd, 2024