NST recognises Punjab’s tech-driven climate initiatives, invites CM Maryam to 2026 summit

Punjab’s technology-driven approach to climate resilience and environmental governance has drawn recognition from the Nobel Sustainability Trust (NST), which has invited Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to its 2026 Sustainability Summit in Hong Kong.

The NST, an independent foundation established in Switzerland by members of the Nobel family, has invited Cm Maryam to participate in the Nobel Sustainability Trust 2026 Sustainability Summit and Awards Ceremony, scheduled for Nov 30 at the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong.

The NST, in its communication to the chief minister, highlighted Punjab’s initiatives in climate resilience, environmental protection, forestry, wildlife conservation and air-quality management, particularly its use of technology and data in environmental governance.

The invitation will also allow Punjab to share its experience in an international forum, bringing together government, scientific, academic, business and sustainability leaders.

Punjab has expanded its use of technology and environmental data to manage air quality and respond to smog since Maryam took office in 2024.

Digital monitoring and enforcement systems are being used to track air pollution, identify major emission sources, assess environmental risks and support timely responses to deteriorating conditions.

The systems also facilitate coordination among relevant departments and help improve environmental awareness.

With air pollution and smog continuing to pose significant environmental and public policy challenges across the region, Punjab has sought to strengthen air-quality management through monitoring, data analysis, digital systems and coordinated measures.

The approach is intended to make air-quality governance more accurate, transparent, responsive and evidence-based while supporting longer-term measures to reduce pollution.

The experience could also contribute to wider international discussions on how technology, policy, scientific knowledge and regional cooperation can work together to improve air quality and build long-term climate resilience.

The NST brings together heads of state, government leaders, ministers, international organisations, scientists, business executives, philanthropists and innovators to advance sustainable development and address environmental challenges.

In the official communication to the chief minister, the NST chairman highlighted Punjab’s shift towards data-driven, technology-enabled governance as a benchmark for international environmental reform.

The recognition places Punjab’s efforts to combine technology, climate action, air-quality management, forest conservation, wildlife protection, biodiversity preservation and environmental monitoring within the broader global discussion on sustainable development.

The gathering will provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and experiences on climate action, environmental sustainability, technological innovation, conservation, biodiversity, air-quality management and sustainable development.

CM Maryam's participation would also provide an opportunity to present Punjab’s experience in using technology and innovation to strengthen climate resilience, improve air quality, manage smog, restore forests, protect wildlife and modernise environmental governance.

The summit also reflects the NST’s objective of bringing together leaders and practitioners from different regions to exchange experiences, strengthen international dialogue and explore practical approaches to sustainability challenges.