To address and combat the ecological, social and economic impact of climate change all over the world, Climate Diplomacy Day was celebrated in Islamabad last month. AkzoNobel Pakistan, a leading global paints and coating company, in coordination with the Dutch Embassy, demonstrated strong commitment towards mitigating challenges of global climate change.
Celebrated worldwide, Climate Diplomacy Week aims at fostering dialogue and inspiring further action through conferences, debates, exhibitions, film screenings and other outreach activities, bringing together stakeholders and communities in EU and beyond. The objective is to raise awareness across the most vulnerable regions in the world.
Pakistan has consistently ranked high in several vulnerability indices, reflecting the need for appropriate measures to build greater resilience in order to better counter the irreversible impact.
Held under the aegis of the European Union and World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Pakistan, the event was well attended with people from multiple backgrounds and trades including a number of dignitaries, ambassadors and government officials providing their perspective as part of a worldwide exchange aimed at developing transformational and equitable pathways to sustainable development through global cooperation and support.
Events like these align with the objectives of the climate deal, ‘The Paris Agreement’ signed in December 2015 that calls for a global alliance against the growth of climate change.
Saad Mahmood Rashid, CEO AkzoNobel Pakistan said, “We feel immensely proud to represent Dutch corporate values that are exhibited through our operating principles at AkzoNobel Pakistan through this platform. We truly believe that sustainability is business and business is sustainability. An event like this enables us to engage, share and improve frameworks in order to lead the transition to a sustainable and safer world”.
AkzoNobel Pakistan presented their products and process case studies with tangible recorded sustainability benefits highlighting the vital role of organizations in propelling the fight against climate change.
Dr Ishrat Hussain, Advisor to Prime Minister, Imran Khan for Institutional Reforms and Austerity was the chief guest of the event.
Hammad Naqi Khan, Director General WWF-Pakistan, also stressed on the importance of promoting a common worldwide understanding on the need for action in meeting the global challenge.