Mismanaged waste

Pakistan is experiencing a mounting environmental and public health crisis owing to inadequate waste management. Mountains of organic waste in landfills release methane – a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide – having a considerable effect on climate change. From flash floods to heatwaves, the consequences of this crisis are already impacting us. Our outdated waste treatment systems are not equipped to handle the ever-increasing volumes of garbage, leading to unsanitary conditions, water contamination, and disease, particularly affecting low-income communities near landfills.

To tackle this looming disaster, the government must invest in modern waste treatment technologies such as composting, recycling, and methane capture systems. But the responsibility is not only governmental. The responsibility also falls on us as individuals. Each of us must reduce waste through composting at home, supporting recycling efforts, and promoting greener practices. It’s time for Pakistan to treat waste management as a national priority to ensure a cleaner, safer future.

Muhammad Shahjahan Memon

Islamabad