In an effort to tackle the escalating environmental threats of climate change, air pollution, and declining biodiversity, a major public-private initiative has been launched to enhance the green cover of the nation”s capital. Zong, an information services and technology company, has collaborated with the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA) to plant approximately 3,500 indigenous trees across designated areas of the city.
According to a report today, the partnership was formalised through an agreement signed at Zong Headquarters as part of the company”s Green and Low Carbon Initiatives. The drive was officially inaugurated with the planting of the first sapling by key representatives from both organisations.
Present at the launch ceremony were Syed Abrar Hussain, Director General of Pak-EPA, and Dr. Mohsina Zubair, a Director at the agency. They were joined by Zong’s Head of Corporate Communications, Brand and Sustainability, Nabila Yazdani, and Deputy Director of the same department, Andleeb Aslam.
Nabila Yazdani stated that environmental responsibility is central to the company’s operational and innovation strategies. ‘This tree plantation drive reflects our commitment to embedding sustainability into our operations while collaborating with national stakeholders to create tangible, long-term environmental impact for Islamabad and beyond,’ she remarked.
Syed Abrar Hussain of Pak-EPA highlighted the project”s significance in addressing the nation”s environmental issues. ‘This partnership… demonstrates how public-private collaboration can address Pakistan’s environmental challenges in a tangible way,’ he said, noting the initiative would produce measurable benefits for air quality, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
Beyond the physical planting of trees, the joint venture will include public awareness campaigns designed to promote community involvement. The campaigns aim to cultivate a culture of environmental stewardship and emphasise the civic responsibility of all citizens to adopt green behaviours.
The project’s stated long-term objectives include significant environmental improvements, such as enhanced carbon sequestration and a reduction of the urban heat island effect, contributing to a more sustainable future for the city.