EU Regulates Shipping Emissions as Pakistan Braces for Heavy Rain
The EU's new regulations are expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from shipping by up to 90% by 2050, while Pakistan is bracing for at least four more heavy monsoon spells before the end of August, with a focus on improving disaster management systems and addressing structural vulnerabilities to prevent future disasters.
The European Union has introduced new regulations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from shipping, requiring all new ships built in the EU to be designed to run on zero-emission fuels by 2030, while Pakistan is preparing for a fresh monsoon spell with warnings of heavy rainfall and potential flash floods.
The EU's Transport Commissioner, Adina Vălean, described the new regulations as a "major step forward" in reducing the EU's carbon footprint, with the shipping industry expected to save up to €10 billion per year by 2030. The regulations will also require existing ships to be retrofitted with cleaner technologies, such as wind-assisted propulsion and more efficient engines.
In contrast, Pakistan is struggling to cope with the aftermath of heavy monsoon rains, which have caused widespread destruction and killed at least 180 people. The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued flood alerts for major rivers, and the government is facing criticism for its handling of the monsoon crisis.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast heavy monsoon activity across all provinces, with warnings of potential flooding, landslides, and urban flooding in cities including Lahore and Rawalpindi. Authorities have directed all district administrations to remain on high alert, with emergency control rooms and disaster response teams on standby.
As the EU takes steps to reduce its carbon footprint, Pakistan is highlighting the need for comprehensive planning and preparedness to address the impacts of climate change, including heavy rainfall and flooding. The country's authorities must learn from the EU's example and take proactive measures to strengthen its defenses against natural disasters.