LAHORE, October 29, 2026: Climate Gala 2026 brought together 236 students, religious leaders, policymakers, academics and environmental advocates in Lahore on Thursday, highlighting the need for youth leadership, interfaith cooperation and inclusive community participation in addressing climate challenges.
The event, organised by Bargad under its Faith in Action Project in collaboration with the University of Education, Lower Mall Campus, marked the second Inclusive Climate Action Network (I-CAN) Conference.
The conference focused on translating climate awareness into practical action through sustainable lifestyles, stronger institutional partnerships and greater participation by young people and marginalised communities.
Addressing participants, Punjab Minister for Food Safety and Consumer Protection Salma Butt emphasised the importance of environmentally responsible consumption, urging citizens to reduce plastic use, adopt sustainable food practices and recognise the environmental consequences of everyday choices.
University of Education Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Aqif Anwar Chaudhry highlighted the role of young people in driving environmental change and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to sustainability.
Ambreen Lateef, Deputy Secretary at the Environment Protection and Climate Change Department (EP&CCD), appreciated Bargad’s initiative, while Muhammad Yousaf, Director HR&MAD, stressed the importance of environmental responsibility and policy awareness.
Faith leaders call for collective environmental responsibility
A senior panel discussion titled “Faith, Ethics and Environment: A Shared Responsibility” explored how religious teachings and community values could encourage environmental protection.
Allama Asghar Chishti highlighted religious guidance on preserving nature, while Rev. Samuel B. Massey, Prof. Ashok Kumar and other faith representatives emphasised the shared responsibility of different communities in addressing environmental challenges.
Dr. Sadya Salar of the Khawaja Sira Society called for the meaningful inclusion of marginalised communities in climate-related decisions.
Climate activist Shazeen Saeed stressed the need for community-driven solutions that respond to local environmental concerns while supporting government policies.
Youth panel focuses on pollution and green entrepreneurship
The youth panel, “From Climate Concern to Climate Leadership: The Role of Youth Activists,” discussed air pollution, waste management, the River Ravi and opportunities for green entrepreneurship.
Tahira Jamil of the Environmental Protection Agency Punjab and Abdul Wahab of Suthra Punjab highlighted the public health implications of environmental pollution.
Rameen Mashhood, a member of the Prime Minister’s National Youth Council, called for greater youth participation in environmental policymaking and decision-making.
Environmental activist Abuzar Madhu emphasised storytelling and community engagement as tools for encouraging climate action.
Asma Arif, founder of Green Riwayat, discussed how recycling and environmentally responsible businesses could create sustainable livelihood opportunities.
Aliza Aziz of Bargad urged young people to move beyond social media awareness campaigns and participate in practical environmental initiatives within their communities.
Rabia Dar, I-CAN Lead, stressed the importance of cooperation across faiths and communities to translate shared environmental values into meaningful action.
I-CAN Awards recognise climate initiatives
The conference also recognised individuals contributing to inclusive climate action through the I-CAN Awards.
Dr. Zainab Aman of Saheli and Feminist Future Labs received the I-CAN Award for gender-transformative climate action.
Special Media Shout-Out Awards were presented to Hafiza Asma for connecting climate education with circular entrepreneurship and Arfa Shan of Ferro Bars, Balochistan, for promoting resource efficiency through value addition to surplus dates.
The event was also attended by Rizwan Anwar and Maha Jamil of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, Nabeeha Shakeel of Abroo Foundation, Aqsa Zahoor of Edpro Consultants and Sana Fatima, Head of Marketing at FemCare Embrace, Packages, along with academics, environmental practitioners and community representatives.
Participants emphasised that effective climate action requires practical solutions, inclusive decision-making and sustained cooperation among educational institutions, faith communities, government departments and young environmental advocates.
The conference concluded with a call to strengthen community partnerships, empower youth and ensure that marginalised voices are represented in efforts to address environmental challenges.