On the occasion of World Environment Day, a transformative step was taken in Karachi’s fight against air pollution as Bank Alfalah, in collaboration with the Pakistan Air Quality Initiative (PAQI) and Karachi Urban Lab (KUL) at IBA, launched the city’s most detailed emissions report to date. Titled “Karachi Emissions Inventory – A Scientific Foundation for a Clean Air City,” the report lays the groundwork for targeted policy actions by identifying pollution hotspots and key emission sources.
The report draws on data from 13 newly installed air quality monitors, funded by Bank Alfalah, positioned in strategic high-density areas including Saddar, Korangi, Gadap, North Nazimabad, and Clifton. These monitors measure key pollutants—PM2.5, SO₂, NOₓ, and CO₂—and represent a significant leap in Karachi’s ability to track and understand its air quality challenges.
According to the findings, Karachi emits nearly 395 kilotons of pollutants annually, with industry (49%) and transport (33%) as the major contributors to fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Power generation, mostly powered by high-sulfur fuels, is responsible for 30% of sulfur dioxide emissions. Residential emissions remain minimal due to the city’s warmer climate reducing heating needs.
“Karachi’s air quality crisis is local, not inevitable,” said Abid Qamar, Founder of PAQI. “Our report shows that with targeted, evidence-based interventions—especially around industrial regulation and transport—significant improvements can be made within just five years.”
Despite natural sea breezes providing some relief, the report highlights that background pollution levels remain high due to coastal salt and desert dust. The data, combined with international best practices, is expected to serve as a roadmap for cleaner air and healthier urban living.
The launch event, held at the Institute of Business Administration (IBA), included a high-level policy dialogue advocating for cross-agency collaboration, stronger monitoring frameworks, public health alerts, and green financing to support sustainable transitions.
“Bank Alfalah is proud to support the scientific foundation needed to tackle urban air pollution,” said Madiha Javed Qureshi, Head of Corporate Communication and CSR at Bank Alfalah. “As a responsible bank, we are committed to driving sustainable change through green financing and environmental innovation.”
Furthering its commitment to sustainability, Bank Alfalah has pledged USD 10 million to environmental resilience under the leadership of its Chairman, Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan. Through its #GreenWayForward initiative with WWF-Pakistan, the bank has already planted 35,000 mangroves and aims to reach 100,000 trees by 2030.
The Bank’s green financing portfolio now stands at PKR 26.6 billion, supporting renewable energy projects and eco-friendly technologies. Additionally, 155 of its ATMs are powered by solar energy, offsetting 193 tonnes of CO₂ emissions in 2024. Its Sheikh Bhirko branch, operating on a 30kW solar hybrid system, represents a first-of-its-kind green banking model in Pakistan.
Bank Alfalah has also partnered with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to enhance its practices in waste management, recycling, and water efficiency as part of its broader green banking strategy.
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With the launch of the Karachi Emissions Inventory, policymakers, businesses, and citizens now have a vital tool to guide action toward a cleaner, more breathable future for the city.