Islamabad, 28 July 2023 (WAI): The Federal Minister for the Ministry of Climate Change and the Environment, Senator Sherry Rehman, and Mr. Samuel Rizk, UNDP’s Resident Representative in Pakistan, jointly unveiled the organization’s most recent masterpiece, “Fading Vistas – Beauty of Northern Pakistan.”
The stunning coffee table book features breathtaking photos of Northern Pakistan’s fascinating valleys, glaciers, and mountains, underscoring the urgent need to safeguard them from the catastrophic effects of climate change. The book also discusses the destructive effects of glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs) and the GLOF-II Project’s efforts in assisting affected people.
The book “Fading Vistas” is a partnership between the Ministry of Climate Change and UNDP, with substantial financing from the Green Climate Fund. It offers a well-chosen selection of mesmerizing photos that beautifully depict Pakistan’s diverse natural environments and varied geography.
This book is expected to raise awareness and encourage collective action to protect these precious environments for future generations.
Senator Sherry Rehman, noted for her tireless work in climate adaptation to lessen Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change, emphasized the need to preserve the majesty and compassion of natural environments.
She stated, “Our deep connection to the wondrous ecological systems of the Earth can in no way be negated or undermined, as without the grandeur and benevolence of our natural habitats – the splendid valleys, vast forests, and monumental mountains; we would truly cease to exist.”
Furthermore, she underlined that Pakistan is still vulnerable to the effects of global warming despite the relatively low rate of emissions, which include worsening poverty, gender inequality, and loss of livelihoods.
Samuel Rizk, the UNDP’s Resident Representative in Pakistan, stressed the importance of taking urgent action on climate change, especially for the most vulnerable groups who depend primarily on natural resources for survival. He stated, “Climate Change is a huge development challenge.” UNDP is dedicated to incorporating climate-resilient and ecologically friendly policies into Pakistani development goals and programs.
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The GLOF-II Project, a joint Ministry of Climate Change and UNDP effort, is progressing in tackling these issues. The initiative helps communities identify and manage risks related to GLOFs and other climate change consequences while operating in 8 Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and 16 valleys in Gilgit Baltistan.
It promotes community readiness and response and supports the development of sustainable livelihood options, with a particular emphasis on women’s engagement in maintaining food security and economic resilience.
Sustainable climate action is more important than ever, as Pakistan’s natural habitats are in great danger of disappearing owing to climate change. Drought, floods, severe rains, melting glaciers, and rising sea levels require quick action.
The book “Fading Vistas” is an exquisite but heartbreaking reminder of protecting these vulnerable landscapes and ecosystems to ensure a successful and sustainable future.
A student of International Relations interested in National Security strategies, with a good focus on Geo-Politics, Foreign Policy, and Public & Cultural Diplomacy.
