LAHORE, Punjab Minister for Higher Education, Mansoor Qadir, has called for innovative solutions to address the pressing issue of smog. Speaking at the 4th International Conference on “Emerging Trends in Earth and Environmental Sciences,” organized by Punjab University College of Earth and Environmental Sciences (CEES), he emphasized the need for collaboration between academia and industry to meet environmental challenges. The event, held in Lahore, saw the participation of Minister of State on Tourism Sayed Wasi Shah, CEES Principal Prof Dr. Sajid Rashid, and delegates from various countries.

According to University of the Punjab, the conference was a gathering of researchers, experts, faculty members, and students, featuring international delegates from Germany, Canada, Colombia, and Pakistan. Minister Qadir underlined the importance of joint efforts in overcoming environmental challenges, particularly smog, which poses significant health risks. Sayed Wasi Shah discussed the impact of climate change on the environment, water resources, biodiversity, and ecosystems, while Prof Dr. Sajid Rashid expressed hope that the conference would promote sustainable and harmonious relationships between humanity and the environment.

The conference featured discussions on various environmental issues, including smog eradication strategies and ecosystem security. Dr. Mathias Liess spoke on ecosystem security, while Dr. Kimberly and others focused on smog eradication. Experts like Dr. Mumtaz Cheema, Dr. Ian Sutherland, and Dr. Sonja Knutson stressed the importance of agricultural and environmental protection.

The event concluded with Dr. Muhammad Waqar and Dr. Abdul Qadir expressing gratitude to participants from diverse sectors such as industry, academia, and national and international organizations. The conference, aiming to address critical environmental issues and propose actionable solutions, was scheduled to continue until Wednesday.