In commemoration of the annual Earth Day celebrated on April 22 worldwide, Progressive Climate Foundation (PCF) planned a clean-up drive at trail 5 Margalla Hills with special guest from Norway to make the day memorable. The team, together with their CEO Mr. Tawseef Khan and the guest of honor Ms. Inger Smith, led a one-day clean-up drive on the lush Trail 5 of Margalla Hills.
Once again, the NGO showcased its tireless work to highlight mountain challenges and bring them into national discussion. It continues to do so through diverse activities such as climate campaigns, youth forums, tree-plantation drives, and collaborations with guests like Inger Smith.
Aims of the Clean-Up Drive
Following this year’s theme, “Planet Vs Plastics,” the event aimed to raise awareness about plastic waste and its global impact. It also encouraged the public to understand that it’s not just about cleaning the hills but about creating large-scale community change. Moreover, sustainable habits and collective action are key to building a cleaner, greener, and climate-resilient Pakistan.
The clean-up drive further demonstrated the consistent efforts of Progressive Climate Foundation. It also highlighted the environmental challenges of Margalla Hills National Park, where both locals and tourists visit for scenic views. However, littering has become a growing issue, with plastic bags being a major pollutant.
The event emphasized the importance of proper plastic disposal, as plastic takes decades to degrade and causes lasting harm. It not only affects marine and aquatic life but also leads to flooding by blocking drainage and water flow.
Some main points discussed during the clean-up included:
- Giving up single-use plastics that pollute and destroy waterways.
- Cleaning the trail and educating the public on sustainable waste management.
- Promoting the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.
Significance of the Clean-Up Drive
The choice of location for the clean-up drive was strategic. The Hills are not only a national monument but also a geographically vital landmark. Climate activists from PCF discussed the critical role of mountain ecosystems in sustaining biodiversity, retaining water, preventing floods, and regulating the climate.
All of this is now at risk due to the increasing use of single-use plastics. This plastic crisis threatens both the environment and human health, leaving traces in the form of microplastics. The initiative therefore emphasized the urgent need to tackle this environmental issue caused by plastic overuse.
Progressive Climate Foundation addressed the problem directly by organizing this clean-up drive. It demonstrated the importance of behavioral change and adopting eco-friendly, zero-waste lifestyles. Although laws and regulatory bodies exist, real change depends on public support. Thus, choosing reusable alternatives can make a significant difference.
Final Thoughts
This one-day clean-up drive highlighted how single-use plastics pollute land and waterways, damaging delicate ecosystems essential for our survival. Plastic continues to choke the planet, wildlife, and the lives of those connected to the region.
The clean-up drive at Margalla Hills National Park served as a strong reminder of the urgent need to address threats to the hills, including littering, deforestation, and unsustainable development. The day ended positively, with everyone agreeing to give up single-use plastics and work together for a healthier, cleaner planet.
