Rising Heat Drives Call For Energy-efficient Cooling
UrduPoint
Pakistan
Pakistan’s growing need for air conditioning and refrigeration amid rising temperatures and extreme weather has prompted calls for a faster shift to energy-efficient and climate-friendly cooling technologies. This was highlighted at an event in Karachi, organised by the National Ozone Unit (NOU) of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination to mark World Ozone Day.
Officials and experts stressed the need to address the country’s expanding cooling requirements through cleaner technologies, scientific innovation, and improved energy efficiency while ensuring continued protection of the ozone layer. This year’s World Ozone Day theme, “Global Action for a Cooler Planet”, also marks 10 years of sustainable cooling efforts under the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.
Director General of Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency and National Project Director of the NOU, Syed Abrar Hussain, stated that the transition to climate-friendly refrigeration and air-conditioning technologies should be guided by science, innovation, energy efficiency, and sustainability. He called for coordinated efforts from government institutions, industry, academia, technical experts, development partners, and civil society to accelerate sustainable cooling.
Interim National Ozone Officer, Syed Azmat Hussain Shah, confirmed Pakistan’s commitment to implementing the Montreal Protocol and its Kigali Amendment. He emphasised the need for strengthening national capacity, assisting industry in adopting climate-friendly technologies, and involving young people in environmental action.
UNIDO National Project Coordinator, Fawad Hassan Mir, reiterated the organisation’s support for Pakistan’s transition towards ozone-friendly technologies and sustainable industrial practices. He noted that Pakistan had made significant progress in meeting its obligations under the Montreal Protocol, attributing this success to national ownership and international cooperation.
Assistant Professor at the University of Karachi, Dr Waqar Ahmed, presented on ozone science, explaining the process of ozone depletion and its potential impacts on human health.
UNDP Programme Analyst, Bushra Gul, stated that UNDP was assisting Pakistan with institutional strengthening, including capacity building, national coordination, data and reporting systems, regulatory frameworks, and compliance measures concerning ozone-depleting substances and HCFC management. She called for greater emphasis on energy efficiency, low-carbon technologies, and climate resilience as Pakistan develops a more sustainable cooling sector.
The event featured expert presentations, discussions, and speech and poster competitions aimed at increasing public and youth awareness about ozone protection and environmentally safe technologies.
Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency spokesperson, Dr Zaigham Abbas, emphasised the importance of continued cooperation among stakeholders.