A model environmental policy plan for Pakistan

Abstract

This study examines the environmental protection legislation in Pakistan and the US. Although Pakistan Environmental Protection Ordinance-1983 is very similar to the US National Environmental Policy Act-1969, the success story in terms of practice and application of the legislation is very different in both the countries. The National Environmental Policy Act-1969 of the US was analyzed: how it was enacted and how much of a success it was in obtaining its objectives. Similarly, the Pakistan Environmental Protection Ordinance-1983 was studied. Both legislations were compared pointing out the similarities and differences. A dual analyses of these commonalities and differences was able to yield section-wise modifications and prescriptions to build a framework for a Model Environmental Policy Plan. It is hoped that this plan could be more effective and appropriate for the political, cultural, religious and socioeconomic context of Pakistan. The Model Policy is comprehensive and integrates management of a variety of resources. It recommends changes in the nature of government, society, law enforcement, system of education and the system of justice both for violations of rights of the poor masses as well as for settling environmental disputes. One of the bold concepts that has been coined in the Model Environmental Policy Plan is under the last Title XII which deals with 'Moral Pollution'. It serves a caution to the Government for having failed to control corruption in the 55 years of existence of Pakistan. The researcher strongly believes that without addressing 'Moral Pollution', Pakistan will lose its fight against any other kind of pollution. "Not gold but only men can make A people great and strong; Men who for truth and honor's sake Stand fast and suffer long. Brave men who work while others sleep. Who dare while others fly... They build a nation's pillars deep And lift them to the sky." – Ralph Waldo Emerson. In the words of Our Creator, as conveyed to Prophet Mohammed by Arch-Angel Gabriel, "Let there arise out of you, a band of people inviting to what is good, enjoining what is right and forbidding what is wrong. They are the ones to attain success." – Surah AI Imran, v 104. The research hypothesis of 'Model Environmental Policy Plan' was tested via questionnaire by a diverse population in Pakistan. Statistical analyses of the responses revealed support for the Model Environmental Policy Plan.