Apart from international moots, climate change can also be handled at the local level. The administration here can reduce the hazardous effects of global warming by taking some measures.
However, this initiative was first discussed in the United Nations conference on climate change in Rio de Janeiro in June 1992. Following this dialogue, many of the states have been successful in reducing green-house gas emissions, such as Iceland and the states of Wisconsin and Hampshire in the US. These states had not only called big industrialists but also local energy consumers for the reduction in emissions. They did not enact environmental laws, but brought social and economical awareness in the masses. They emphasised on the usage of renewable energy rather than fossil fuels.
Indeed, these fossil fuels are the bone of contention of international politics because almost all developing as well as developed countries consume these fuels as raw material for generating energy. That is why climate sceptics have termed fossil fuels as the economy of the globe.
Apart from that, we have many good locations for dams to generate hydroelectricity which is also beneficial to meet our growing energy needs. According to water experts, in Sindh alone, there are at least 40 locations such as Chotiyari and New Gaaj. This initiative will save our climate from being seriously affected.
These methods will reduce our fossil-fuel consumption. This responsibility can be assigned to each district officer to manage climate issues. Unfortunately, we throw garbage, which is highly toxic for animals and the environment, on streets, roads and empty plots. We should either dump it in a garbage can or recycle it. We should fine those vehicles which emit smoke.
Another way to make the environment clean is by planting more trees. These trees will absorb tons of carbon dioxide. Last but not least, political will and sincerity of purpose can help us to reduce green-house gas emissions.
SANA ASAD
Karachi