‘Circular economy to boost sustainability, waste management’

Islamabad:Coordinator to the prime minister for climate change Romina Khurshid Alam on Thursday highlighted Pakistan's ongoing efforts to improve its waste management systems and promote sustainability through the development of a circular economy policy.

The policy aims to incorporate circular economy principles into national strategies, fostering sustainable industrial practices and the adoption of green technologies, she said at an event titled "Advancing Circular Economy: Pakistan–Türkiye Partnership for Sustainability."

Ms Romina emphasised the critical nature of the challenge, noting that Pakistan has already made significant strides in tackling plastic pollution. “Pakistan has successfully implemented a ban on single-use plastics and polythene bags, which is a major achievement,” she said.

She said the circular economy model sought to minimise waste and maximise the use of existing resources, creating a sustainable system where materials and products are continually reused.

"This approach supports the conservation of natural resources, reduces waste, and lessens environmental impact." Ms Romina added that the ban on single-use plastics has resulted in a reduction of plastic bag usage from 80% to 58%. However, she pointed out that enforcement challenges persist due to limited capacity, calling for additional measures such as consumer education and the provision of alternatives.

"Pakistan generates around 49.6 million tons of solid waste annually, with a yearly increase of over 2.4%. The country faces significant waste management infrastructure challenges, which contribute to serious environmental concerns," she said.

Ms Romina acknowledged Pakistan's environmental hurdles, including pollution, waste management issues, and resource depletion. She emphasised that transitioning to a circular economy could lead to substantial environmental benefits, such as waste reduction and resource conservation. However, she noted that achieving true environmental sustainability remains a long-term goal.

"We are committed to advancing this agenda through innovative policies, improved recycling systems, and better waste management practices," she said.