Citizens, Stakeholders Unite at Trail 5 on “World Environment Day 2025”: A Call to Break the Plastic Habit and Embrace Environmental Responsibility

In a deeply reflective and action-driven event organized by Shehersaaz, UN-Habitat, CDA, IWMB, and engaged citizens came together on Margallah Hills, Trail 5 to advocate for climate-conscious living and sustainable practices, highlighting Pakistan’s urgent need to eliminate plastic from daily lives following the international theme on World Environment Day: Beat Plastic Pollution.

The day began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by a warm welcome from Executive Director of Shehersaaz, Ms. Almas Shakoor who emphasized on changing habits responsibly when it comes to dealing with environment and becoming more aware of taking care of it.

Delivering powerful remarks, Mr. Jawed Ali Khan, Country Program Manager at UN-Habitat, traced the transformation of Pakistani cities over the last two decades. He noted the alarming rise in urban populations and environmental degradation, especially under the weight of climate change. Stressing the pressing need for civic responsibility, Mr. Khan commended Shehersaaz for its steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship and assured continued institutional support in championing urban sustainability.

Gracing the occasion as Chief Guest, Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA), Mr. Muhammad Ali Randhawa, urged citizens to adopt greener lifestyles by planting trees and abandoning single-use plastics. He emphasized a paradigm shift in public mindset, underlining that from July 1st, a tax penalty will be enforced on individuals found littering public spaces — a bold regulatory step toward cleaner cities.

Also addressing the gathering, Director General from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Mr. Asif Sahibzada, echoed the urgency of combating plastic pollution. He emphasized the detrimental impact of unchecked waste and reinforced the importance of collective behavioral change.

Director of Solid Waste Management, Mr. Waqas Ali Khan, highlighted practical on-ground initiatives, including the distribution of biodegradable bags across Islamabad. These bags aim to support responsible disposal of animal waste during Eid-ul-Azha, preventing contamination of streets, water bodies, and dumping grounds.

Participants were then briefed on a “Hike & Trash Pick” activity, embodying the spirit of environmental action. Equipped with gloves and trash bags, the attendees embarked on a guided hike through the picturesque Trail 5 — each step echoing a message of responsibility and care. Plastic waste was collected along the trail, transforming a symbolic gesture into tangible impact.

The event concluded at the CDA office with closing reflections and a powerful group photo — a moment etched in time to reaffirm a shared promise: to protect the planet.

The day culminated in heartfelt conversations, refreshments, and renewed pledges. With the slogan “Break the Plastic Habit — There is No Planet B”, the participants walked away not just inspired, but committed to becoming agents of change in their communities.

Simultaneously, impactful community-driven activities unfolded in Rawalpindi and Nowshera, where Shehersaaz ensured responsible activities involving citizens, youth, and local organizations who participated in awareness walks, environmental seminars, and street cleaning campaigns. These synchronized efforts reflected a growing nationwide momentum toward climate awareness and civic responsibility, further amplifying the message that protecting the environment is a shared duty—across cities, communities, and generations.