Speaking at the ‘Advancing Green Industrialization Agenda in Pakistan’ event, organised by UNCTAD & SPRC here at a local hotel, Ms. Alam stressed the need to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability, especially in the plastics industry, which contributes 15% to GDP and employs over 1.2 million people. However, the sector faces significant environmental challenges such as high emissions and waste.

To address these issues, Ms. Alam emphasised the importance of a robust regulatory framework, enhanced recycling, and active involvement of federal and provincial Environmental Protection Agencies (EPAs). She also discussed the development of the Green Industrialisation Policy Framework, which aims to reduce GHG emissions, strengthen compliance with regulations, promote cleaner production, and improve commercial practices for a sustainable industrial ecosystem.

Ms. Alam further explained that the Ministry of Climate Change, in collaboration with key stakeholders, is finalizing the policy framework at both national and provincial levels. The State Bank of Pakistan is also advancing its Green Taxonomy initiative to mobilize green finance for sustainable practices.

“The shift towards green industrialization is essential for achieving Pakistan’s climate and development goals, including SDGs by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2050,” she stated.

A Policy Roundtable will be held to bring together stakeholders from various sectors to institutionalise the Green Industrialisation Policy Framework as a national strategy for sustainable growth. The framework will guide Pakistan’s sustainable industrial future, positioning the country as a global leader in green manufacturing, she added.