In a significant step towards combating climate change, Government College University (GCU) Lahore hosted a one-day conference titled “CO₂ Talks”, drawing experts from academia, industry, government, and international organizations. The event underscored the power of scientific collaboration in driving climate action and shaping sustainable development strategies for Pakistan.
Organized by GCU’s Sustainable Development Study Centre (SDSC) in collaboration with PRGMEA, GIZ, and the National Climate Council, the conference focused on data-driven policymaking and cross-sector accountability to tackle pressing environmental challenges.
In her keynote address, Ms. Yulia Bazhenova, Country Head of GIZ Pakistan, emphasized the urgency of coordinated environmental action, highlighting the pivotal role of youth and educational institutions in shaping inclusive and future-oriented climate policies.
GCU Vice Chancellor Prof Dr Muhammad Omer Chaudhry delivered a compelling address on the human cost of environmental degradation, revealing that Pakistan faces nearly 22,000 premature deaths annually due to issues like smog. “These are not just numbers—they are lives, communities, and futures at stake,” he said, urging individual responsibility alongside institutional action.
He also showcased GCU’s commitment to sustainability, praising ongoing faculty-led initiatives and reaffirming the university’s goal to become a national leader in environmentally conscious higher education.
Key industry voices echoed the urgency for environmental reform. Dr Ayyaz ud Din, Chairman PRGMEA (North), stressed the need for decarbonization in Pakistan’s industrial sectors, especially textiles, to remain competitive globally. Prof Dr Faiza Sharif, SDSC Director, highlighted academia’s role in overcoming barriers such as data scarcity and weak compliance in industrial supply chains, aligning her call to action with SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals.
Dr Zulfiqar Younis, Additional Secretary for Climate Finance at the Ministry of Climate Change, shed light on the development of Pakistan’s carbon market. Meanwhile, WWF Pakistan Director General Hammad Naqi Khan urged stronger efforts to protect biodiversity and water resources, linking environmental sustainability to the nation’s ecological and economic stability.
Three expert-led panel discussions explored diverse climate solutions. In “Maili Maili Dhoop,” moderated by South Asian Sourcing CEO Asad Bajwa, participants discussed the potential of sunlight harvesting, with poet Anwar Masood advocating a renewed bond with nature. A second panel focused on circularity and industrial decarbonization, where DG Cement’s Dr Arif Bashir promoted biogas adoption. The final panel, on regulatory compliance, featured calls for legislative reform on hazardous chemicals and improved industry standards from experts Dr Nabeel Amin and Dr Khurram Tariq.
The conference concluded with a thought-provoking theatrical performance “Libas ka Safar” by the GCU Dramatics Club and NAMS, followed by a closing address by Prof. Chaudhry, who called on students and youth to become active participants in the fight against climate change.
“CO₂ Talks” marked a powerful step toward bridging science and policy, uniting diverse voices to forge sustainable paths forward for Pakistan.