DawnMedia Launches Breathe Pakistan Initiative Against Climate Change

KARACHI: Climate change is a pressing issue that affects millions of people around the world, and Pakistan is no exception. With rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and severe flooding, the country is facing significant environmental challenges. In response to this urgent situation, DawnMedia has announced the launch of an initiative called ‘Breathe Pakistan’. This campaign aims to encourage citizens to adopt environmentally sustainable practices in their daily lives.

According to a statement from DawnMedia, the initiative comes at a time when Pakistan is grappling with the harsh realities of climate change. The country has experienced extreme heat waves, widespread glacier melt, and devastating floods that have impacted countless lives. Dawn CEO Nazafreen Saigol-Lakhani emphasized the importance of unity in tackling these challenges, stating, “At DawnMedia, we believe in the power of unity — coming together for one collective purpose, even if in modest ways.”

The ‘Breathe Pakistan’ campaign is not just about individual actions; it aims to influence broader policy changes that can lead to a sustainable future. Saigol-Lakhani further explained, “Our campaign represents growth, renewal, and a call for every Pakistani to reclaim our environment with pride and ownership.” This initiative seeks to create awareness through a cross-platform media approach, engaging citizens across various mediums.

As part of the campaign, DawnMedia plans to collaborate with environmental activists and think tanks to develop a coherent strategy for addressing climate change in Pakistan. A significant conference is scheduled for early 2025, where experts will discuss the adverse effects of climate change and propose actionable solutions.

Recent reports highlight the urgency of this initiative. The World Risk Index 2024 identified Pakistan as one of the 15 countries with the highest disaster risk. Additionally, a World Bank report from December revealed that eight out of ten people in Pakistan are concerned about the impacts of climate change. The report, titled 'Climate Silence in Pakistan', noted that climate change has drastically altered weather patterns and led to catastrophic floods.

The unprecedented floods of 2022 serve as a stark reminder of the devastating effects of climate change, claiming 1,700 lives and affecting 33 million people. These statistics underscore the need for immediate action and awareness.

The ‘Breathe Pakistan’ initiative by DawnMedia is a crucial step towards fostering environmental awareness and encouraging sustainable practices among citizens. By coming together as a community, Pakistanis can reclaim their environment and work towards a healthier, more sustainable future. It is essential for everyone to recognize their role in this fight against climate change, as every small action can contribute to a larger impact. Together, we can breathe new life into our planet.