Chinese experts offer environmental support

Efforts of provincial authorities for achieving a 10% reduction in smog rates in 2023 were commended

LAHORE:

Provincial Environment Secretary Rashid Kamalur Rehman held a meeting with Chinese environmentalists on Monday to discuss addressing smog-related challenges in Punjab, particularly Lahore.

During the meeting, Chinese Consul General Zhao Shiren commended the efforts of provincial authorities for achieving a 10% reduction in smog rates in 2023, especially in the metropolis.

Chinese environmental experts shared practical suggestions for resolving the issue.

The environment secretary expressed the Punjab government’s eagerness to leverage the experiences of Chinese environmentalists in combating smog. He also highlighted successful smog reduction measures already implemented, seeking further guidance from Chinese experts.

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Provincial Environment DG Zaheer Abbas presented a detailed briefing on Punjab government’s initiatives, along with relevant governing laws.

He emphasised the regional nature of the issue, attributing air pollution in Lahore to 83.5% from transport, 9.7% from industry, 3.9% from agriculture, 3.6% from waste burning, 0.14% from commercial activities and 0.11% from domestic sources.

Chinese environmental experts provided insights into the background, key research findings and support for air quality improvement, sharing China’s successful strategies in combating smog.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 16^th, 2024.