Call for prioritising gender-inclusive climate resilience

Islamabad:Coordinator to the prime minister on climate change Romina Khurshid Alam on Monday said that while Pakistan grappled with the escalating adverse impacts of climate change, from devastating floods and droughts to extreme heat waves, there was a pressing need to prioritise gender-inclusive climate resilience to overcome those challenges.

“Women, especially in rural and marginalised communities, are among the most vulnerable to climate-related disasters. Yet, they also hold the key to sustainable, community-driven solutions,” Alam said during a meeting with Technical Lead for Green Tech Hub at NUST Dr Salman Atif and official from UN-Women Dr Waqarul Shams here.

The visitors and aide to the PM discussed matters related to the future plan of action for Green Tech Hub as a national focal point for research and green technology driven startups from the country and possible search for international partners for enhancing cooperation and collaboration in climate research and startups ecosystem.

Alam assured the delegation of her all-out support to explore and reach out to available funding avenues and opportunities for strengthening the Green Tech Hub, set at the NUST University in Islamabad in collaboration with the climate change and environmental coordination ministry.

The Green-Tech Hub was launched this year in October as a dedicated platform with an overarching aim to serve as a dedicated space for students, researchers, and innovators to collaborate on cutting-edge solutions in areas such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, waste management, climate adaptation technologies, and sustainable agriculture.

The initiative is a direct response to the urgent need for innovation in addressing Pakistan's environmental challenges, including energy shortages, water scarcity, pollution, and the growing impacts of climate change.

The PM’s climate aide said by empowering women with the tools, knowledge, and resources to adapt to a changing climate, Pakistan could build stronger, more resilient communities for the future.

She, however, said there was urgent need for inclusive, holistic risk management strategies focusing on building climate resilience of the women and children.

"One of the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of climate change adaptation and resilience in Pakistan and in many developing countries is gender inclusivity. Women's experiences and vulnerabilities in the face of climate-related disasters are unique, and addressing these disparities is essential for building sustainable and equitable climate solutions," she said.

Alam said women in rural and marginalised areas of the country often bore the brunt of climate impacts but they also held valuable knowledge and the potential to lead resilience-building efforts.

She, however, said empowering women with technical know-how, skills and financial resources was key to their climate resilience. “When combined with innovative technologies, gender-inclusive climate strategies can transform communities and secure a more sustainable future for all,” she said.