Punjab govt, Foodpanda join hands to improve air quality awareness

LAHORE: The Environmental Protection and Climate Change Department (EP&CCD), Government of Punjab and Pakistan’s leading online delivery network foodpanda have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly promote public awareness and implement important air quality improvement initiatives across Punjab.

The partnership is a powerful commitment by both the private sector and the government to safeguard public health and encourage environmental responsibility.

Under the MoU, foodpanda will engage its vast digital network to support the government's environmental goals. This includes using its digital platforms and communication channels to disseminate approved public health messages and communication issued by the EP&CCD.

The company will also facilitate the distribution of protective kits, including specialized masks and reflective gear, and participate in training sessions to promote safer delivery operations for its riders during high-smog seasons.

The EP&CCD, acting under the authority of the Government of Punjab, will ensure the strategic importance of this collaboration by jointly designing and executing public awareness campaigns on air quality, smog control, and environmental protection.

The department will actively participate in awareness, training, and distribution activities, providing official endorsement and support for initiatives promoting rider health and safety.

Ms. Silwat Saeed, Secretary, Environment Protection and Climate Change Department, added, “The challenge of air pollution and smog requires a united effort, not just government action. Our partnership with foodpanda allows us to instantly reach thousands of riders and amplify important public health information directly to the community. This collaboration is the embodiment of shared responsibility, enabling us to use technology to encourage more sustainable practices across Punjab.”

Hassan Arshad, Director Public Policy & Communications, foodpanda Pakistan commented on the collaboration, “Our riders are often the first to experience the impact of poor air quality, and their health is non-negotiable. This partnership with the EP&CCD is vital because it integrates our digital platforms to boost important public health awareness across Punjab. We are committed to working 'hand-in-hand' with the Government of Punjab to protect our frontline workers while contributing data that can shape long-term environmental policy and cleaner transport options for our cities.”

A key component of the MoU is the mutual agreement on data collaboration. Both foodpanda and EP&CCD will collaborate on data sharing, research, and reporting related to environmental performance and public engagement outcomes, including sharing aggregated data on delivery patterns and public campaign reach. This information will be used to jointly develop knowledge materials and reports, with findings that will be important in strengthening future public outreach on air quality improvement and the acceleration of sustainable transport methods in Pakistan.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025