Impact of Climate Change on Older People, Strengthening Care & Support Systems

The event opened with a welcome note from Qaisar Iqbal, representing the BDN Secretariat, followed by Syed Moeez Ud Din, Country Director of HelpAge International, who outlined the work of FAID and HelpAge in supporting older people amid growing environmental challenges.

Muhammad Murtaza, Founder Director of RCDS, delivered an engaging session on The Impact of SMOG on the Health of Older People and Other Vulnerable Groups, highlighting the importance of protective measures for those most at risk. A documentary on the effects of climate change on older populations, presented by Faisal Hussain from HelpAge International, followed.

The heart of the event was a panel discussion moderated by Syed Sajjad Hussain, which explored Addressing Climate-Induced Air Pollution: Health Risks, Hazards, and the Urgent Need for Policy Reforms for Older People. Panelists included:

1. Dr. Nazia Karamat – Specialized Expert
2. Bushra Khaliq – Civil Society Representative
3. Sheeza Arshad – Young Climate Change Activist
4. Mrs. Nuzhat – Senior Citizen, All Pakistan Women Association

The panel focused on the critical need for policy reforms that address the unique challenges faced by older people in the wake of climate-induced air pollution and environmental hazards.

After the panel discussion, Prof. Dr. Zahid Latif, Chairman of Alkhidmat Health Foundation Pakistan and Vice President of Alkhidmat Foundation Pakistan, delivered a keynote address. Dr. Latif stressed the need for integrating healthcare systems with climate-responsive policies to ensure older populations receive adequate protection.

The second keynote address was given by Saima Butt, a transgender activist, who highlighted the intersectionality of climate change impacts, stressing that marginalized groups, including transgender individuals and older people, face amplified challenges. She called for inclusive climate action that leaves no one behind.

Kanwal Pervez Chaudhary, the Parliamentary Secretary for Environment Protection and Climate Change, graced the event as chief guest. In her remarks, she commended the efforts of BDN, FAID, and HelpAge for bringing attention to the issue of climate change and its effects on vulnerable populations. She emphasized, the government of Punjab has initiated the climate change policy first ever in the history of Punjab which includes to combal climate induced air pollution particularly Smog. She further added that Climate Change is a global issue and Pakistan is one of the countries which is most effected by climate induced disasters. “She also shared that traffic is the major contributor of Air pollution as per our recent estimation over 40 lac bikes on the road in Lahore on daily basis.” We will continue to push for robust policies that not only protect the environment but also safeguard the health and well-being of older people. She reaffirmed the government’s dedication to implementing reforms that prioritize the needs of older citizens in the face of increasing environmental threats.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Amir Naseem of BDN Punjab, who expressed his appreciation to the speakers, participants, and organizers for their commitment to advancing the conversation on climate change and vulnerable populations.

For more information, please contact:

Buzurg Dost Network Punjab
Email: muhammad.bilal@helpagesa.org
Phone: +92-3126604468