In a statement he said the developed countries are proactively pursuing and practicing strict environmental policies which have encouraged research & development in water purification, sanitation, sewage and wastewater treatment, waste management and waste-to-energy, production of bio-fuels, as well as generation of renewable energy from wind, biomass and solar power while situation in Pakistan is discouraging.
Citing an example, LCCI president said that Sweden is the first country in Europe which met the renewable energy targets, set by the European Union (EU) for 2020, well ahead of schedule. Renewable energy accounted for over 49 percent of total energy used in Sweden, he said.
The EU target calls for renewable energy making up for 49 percent of the total energy used in member countries by 2020, reducing emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs) by 20 percent and ensuring 10 percent use of bio-fuels in total auto fuel consumption, he added.
"Sweden's successful experience and knowledge of implementing green technologies can be used by Pakistan by developing a sustainable civic and industrial infrastructure and realize rapid economic growth. There is a strong correlation between economic growth and reduction in waste, greenhouse gases, making optimum use of natural and human resources, and the production and conservation of energy to meet the environmental and human development challenges in a changing world," he added.
Malik Tahir Javaid asked the government to take immediate measures for promotion of green technology as the business community across Pakistan, is keen on acquiring economical and reliable alternative energy solutions to sustain their operations.
"Those countries should be approached and requested for technology sharing who have a wide range of green technologies for power generation, biogas and bio-fuels production, reducing carbon dioxide emissions and enhancing productivity and production in a sustainable and environment friendly manner. Pakistan has a big consumer market with a young population and an ideal environment for adapting green technologies using local renewable fuels," he said.
Malik Tahir Javaid suggested that a comprehensive energy plan should be prepared and implemented to maximize the use of renewable energy in Pakistan. Pakistan trade partners in European Union can certainly play a major role in introducing, promoting and implementing environment friendly projects in Pakistan that are efficient, reduce carbon dioxide emissions and increase productivity, he said.
He said there is an abundance of waste, biomass, slaughterhouse waste, sewage, sunlight throughout the year, good wind conditions and small and large-scale hydropower potential in Pakistan. By using green technologies, Pakistani governments and companies can overcome many development challenges including the growing energy demand and protecting the environment, he added.
He further said the agricultural diversity of Pakistan provides many natural resources and raw materials to set up high value added smart industries to produce innovative globally user friendly products. "There is definitely a big economic opportunity here that we would like to see becoming a reality," LCCI chief added.