Islamabad (Khyber Mail): In collaboration with the Embassy of Switzerland and the Canadian High Commission in Pakistan, Serena Hotels hosted a Raabta panel discussion to mark International Mountain Day. The event, titled “Preserving Mountain Ecosystems Amidst Climate Change – Strategies for Adaptation and Empowering Mountain Communities,” brought together experts at the Islamabad Serena Hotel to address the challenges facing mountain ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.
Canada, known for its leadership in climate action, reiterated its dedication to supporting climate-vulnerable communities, focusing on empowering women and youth. Initiatives such as Eco-Leaders and partnerships with the Booni Environmental Academy in Chitral exemplify Canada’s commitment to fostering grassroots climate solutions. The Swiss Embassy also highlighted its sustainability initiatives to reduce carbon footprints across various industries, aligning with global climate action goals.
Moderated by renowned journalist Sidra Iqbal, the panel featured notable speakers, including Billi Bierling, a Swiss climber and author, who emphasized the need to balance human activity with environmental preservation. Nazir Sabir, the first Pakistani to summit Mount Everest, shared personal reflections on the visible impact of climate change on mountain environments. Nusrat Nasab, CEO of the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH), discussed community-driven solutions to enhance climate resilience for mountain populations.
Daniel Arsenault, Canada’s Political, Economic, Public Affairs, and Commercial Counselor emphasized Canada’s partnerships in Pakistan to promote grassroots climate solutions and gender-inclusive strategies. He highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to build community resilience and support sustainable practices.
The event also spotlighted Sirbaz Khan, the first Pakistani to summit all 14 peaks over 8,000 meters, whose mountaineering expeditions Serena Hotels proudly supports. Serena’s broader sustainability efforts were highlighted through initiatives like the Green Impact Cleanup Drive at Rakaposhi Base Camp, where 130 kilograms of litter were removed in collaboration with local communities and mountaineers.
Aziz Boolani, CEO of Serena Hotels, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to promoting sustainable tourism and empowering mountain communities. “Through initiatives like this panel discussion and our support for mountaineers such as Sirbaz Khan and Samina Baig, we remain committed to safeguarding our mountains and the livelihoods they sustain,” he said.
The Raabta panel concluded with a collective call to action, urging governments, NGOs, international organizations, and local communities to implement sustainable practices and strengthen climate resilience in mountain regions. Serena Hotels continues to lead efforts to foster meaningful dialogue and inspire collective action to protect vital ecosystems for future generations.