Addressing the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Thursday on the resolution to preserve the environment and increase the area under forests, Cabinet Minister Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer emphasized that protecting the environment is a collective responsibility that requires active participation from all citizens. He stressed the importance of raising awareness among the people for the success of this campaign. Advocating for an increase in the area under forests, Hayer suggested planting more trees on panchayat lands of villages and individual residences.

Highlighting the efforts of the State Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Hayer mentioned initiatives such as installing solar panels in government educational institutions, implementing a complete ban on single-use plastics, and curbing industrial pollution. He also mentioned various ongoing projects, including prioritized plantation efforts. Additionally, the government has undertaken ex situ and in situ measures for stubble management, resulting in a 30% reduction in stubble burning cases. Hayer acknowledged the farmers who have refrained from stubble burning for several years and encouraged others to follow suit. He emphasized the need for local residents to support industries dedicated to stubble management in Punjab.

Regarding pollution, Hayer noted that it has escalated over the last two centuries alongside industrial progress. He highlighted air pollution as a global health crisis responsible for approximately 7 million deaths worldwide. He referenced the clear skies observed during the Covid-19 lockdown and emphasized that the pollution issue is human-made. He also mentioned the United Nations' initiative to celebrate Blue Sky Day on September 7.

Environment protection punjab vidhan sabha