Khyber Pakhtunkhwa marked World Environment Day 2026 on Friday with renewed commitment to environmental protection, sustainable resource management and climate resilience, as provincial authorities emphasized the need for collective action to address growing environmental challenges.
Protecting nature key to a sustainable future: Says KP Secretary
PESHAWAR, Jun 05 (APP):Khyber Pakhtunkhwa marked World Environment Day 2026 on Friday with renewed commitment to environmental protection, sustainable resource management and climate resilience, as provincial authorities emphasized the need for collective action to address growing environmental challenges.
In a special message issued on the occasion, Secretary Climate Change, Forests, Environment and Wildlife Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Junaid Khan, said protecting the environment was not only essential for the present generation but also a guarantee of a safe, healthy and prosperous future for generations to come.
He said the conservation of natural resources, expansion of forest cover, reduction of pollution and mitigation of climate change impacts required coordinated efforts from both government institutions and the public.
Describing World Environment Day as more than a symbolic observance, the secretary said the day served as a reminder of humanity’s responsibility towards nature and the planet.
He noted that the world was facing serious environmental issues, including air and water pollution, rising temperatures, extreme weather events, shrinking forests and increasing pressure on natural resources.
Junaid Khan said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was endowed with rich natural assets, including forests, wildlife, mountain ecosystems and water resources, and that the provincial government was implementing measures to ensure their protection and sustainable use.
He added that the department was working under a comprehensive strategy focused on environmental conservation, forest development, wildlife protection, enforcement of environmental laws and adaptation to climate change.
He highlighted the critical role of trees in maintaining ecological balance, improving rainfall patterns, enhancing soil fertility and supporting human life.
He said afforestation, forest conservation and ecosystem restoration were essential to counter the growing threats posed by climate change.
The secretary urged citizens, educational institutions, civil society organizations, businesses and the media to actively promote environmentally responsible behavior and increase public awareness about conservation.
He said simple actions such as planting trees, reducing waste of water and energy, minimizing unnecessary plastic use and keeping surroundings clean could make a significant difference.
Reaffirming the provincial government’s commitment, Junaid Khan said environmental protection, forest conservation, wildlife preservation and sustainable management of natural resources remained among its top priorities.
He called on the public to adopt eco-friendly lifestyles and contribute towards building a greener, cleaner and more sustainable Pakistan.
