World Environment Day 2026: “Marine Conservation in Pakistan: from Plans to Action”

The speakers highlighted the importance of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) as a nature-based solution to the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Discussions focused on Pakistan’s progress in establishing MPAs, challenges in their effective management and governance, community engagement for marine conservation, and alignment with global biodiversity commitments, including the 30×30 target. Participants also drew attention to ongoing violations within protected areas, particularly at Astola Island, where increasing commercial tourism activities, infrastructure development, and inadequate enforcement threaten the ecological integrity of the MPA. Concerns were raised over bottom trawling and its adverse impacts on marine biodiversity, as well as the issue of large quantities of “kachra fish” being caught and discarded during commercial fishing operations. Speakers emphasized that while the declaration of MPAs is an important first step, ensuring their effective implementation and enforcement remains the next major challenge. Discussions were also held on Indus Delta Canyon MPA being held in abeyance, alongside the importance of adopting Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) to help Pakistan achieve its 30×30 conservation commitments.

The event concluded with an interactive discussion session and closing remarks by the Chief Guest, Mr. Amir Muhyiddin, Additional Secretary/Inspector General Forests, MoCC&EC, who reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to working with all stakeholders to strengthen marine conservation efforts and support Pakistan’s readiness to meet its national and international environmental obligations.