Lahore,The Punjab University College of Earth and Environmental Sciences (CEES) concluded its 4th international conference on ‘Emerging Trends in Earth and Environmental Sciences’ on December 6, 2023. The two-day event, attended by notable figures including Minister for Higher Education Mansoor Qadir, CEES Principal Prof Dr. Sajid Rashid Ahmed, and President Lahore Chamber of Commerce Kashif Anwar, focused on addressing contemporary environmental challenges and proposing actionable solutions.

According to University of the Punjab, the conference highlighted critical environmental issues, with a particular emphasis on climate change, soil pollution, and water quality. Principal Prof Dr. Sajid Rashid Ahmed discussed the importance of adopting new strategies to tackle these problems. He revealed plans for extensive research involving water sampling from 300 locations, including water filtration plants in both rural and urban areas. The study aims to assess heavy metal and E. coli levels in water, with findings to be reported to the government.

The conference also underlined the complexity of soil pollution and the need for sustainable remedial measures. Strategies such as reducing chemical fertilizer use, promoting afforestation, encouraging community involvement, and advocating for organic fertilizer use were suggested.

Kashif Anwar emphasized the role of collaboration between industry and academia in addressing national crises. He advocated for educational institutions to focus on research that addresses social issues.