LCCI chief assures DG Environment of implementing steps to address pollution concerns

LAHORE: The President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mian Abuzar Shad, has emphasized that the business community is fully aware of its environmental responsibilities and is implementing comprehensive measures to address pollution concerns. He called upon the government to provide enhanced facilitation and support to help the business sector achieve its environmental objectives.

Mian Abuzar Shad made these remarks during a high-level meeting with Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, Director General of Environment. The meeting was also attended by LCCI Executive Committee Members Syed Salman Ali and Waqas Aslam.

The LCCI President highlighted the chamber's longstanding cooperation with government initiatives aimed at environmental improvement. "The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and the business community have consistently extended their cooperation to the government for environmental betterment," Shad stated.

He emphasized that sustainable solutions to industrial challenges require collaborative approaches rather than restrictive measures. "The solution to industrial challenges does not lie in restrictions or closures, but in consultation and mutual cooperation," Shad explained. "When industries are taken into confidence during policy formulation, we can not only effectively control environmental pollution but also ensure industrial growth and employment opportunities." Rather than imposing blanket bans on industries, Shad advocated for a more progressive approach focused on technological advancement and environmental best practices. He stressed that environmental protection represents a shared responsibility among government institutions, the business community, and civil society.

The LCCI chief presented compelling data regarding pollution sources, noting that traffic emissions constitute the primary cause of smog in Punjab, followed by crop residue burning, while industrial activities contribute merely 9% to the overall problem. "Therefore, holding industries solely responsible for smog and pollution is unjustified," he argued.

Shad proposed several concrete measures to support environmental initiatives which includes zero-markup loans for installing scrubbers and environmentally-friendly machinery, Special incentives and certificates for industries adopting green practices, Establishment of a facilitation desk at the Lahore Chamber for direct coordination with industries, Enhanced public awareness campaign on smog and environmental issues to promote responsible citizen behaviour. The LCCI President assured continued support for environmental initiatives, stating that the chamber has consistently guided its members on addressing smog and environmental challenges and will maintain full cooperation with the Environment Protection Department.

Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, Director General of Environment, acknowledged the complexity of environmental challenges and praised the collaborative approach. "Environmental issues represent a serious challenge that requires collective efforts from all segments of society, including industries," he stated.

Sheikh commended LCCI's proactive role in environmental initiatives, noting that "the Chamber has always been at the forefront of initiatives for environmental betterment." As part of strengthening cooperation, he announced the appointment of Anjum Riaz as a focal person specifically designated to address industrial environmental concerns.

The meeting underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in addressing Pakistan's environmental challenges while maintaining economic growth and industrial development.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025