Islamabad, December 27, 2024 – In a significant move towards environmental sustainability, Pakistan has joined a nine-nation initiative aimed at reducing the ecological footprint of the fashion and construction industries.
Launched on December 9, 2024, in Siem Reap, Cambodia, this ambitious program is backed by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and is set to run over the next six years with a budget of $45 million, supplemented by an additional $295 million from various sources.
The initiative seeks to address the pressing environmental challenges posed by these two sectors, which are among the largest contributors to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions globally. Key objectives include eliminating hazardous chemicals from production processes, promoting sustainable materials, and encouraging resource-efficient practices.
By integrating innovative strategies such as regenerative design and responsible purchasing behaviors, the initiative aims to transform supply chains in both industries. Moreover, it emphasizes community empowerment by involving women, youth, and local populations, leveraging indigenous knowledge to foster sustainable economic growth.
Participating countries in this collaborative effort include Cambodia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, India, Mongolia, Pakistan, Peru, and Trinidad and Tobago. Together, they will tackle specific challenges unique to their fashion and construction sectors while sharing best practices and resources.
The program is projected to have a substantial impact by 2031, aiming to prevent the release of approximately 6 million tonnes of greenhouse gases and 18,750 tonnes of hazardous chemicals into ecosystems. Additionally, it plans to restore around 825,000 hectares of land and ecosystems, benefiting an estimated 2 million people worldwide.
This initiative marks a crucial step for Pakistan in aligning its industrial practices with global sustainability goals and demonstrates the nation’s commitment to combating climate change while fostering economic resilience.