Islamabad: In a major stride towards environmental stewardship, eight prominent universities across Pakistan have come together to establish the Zero Waste Alliance Pakistan (ZWAP), launched at an event hosted by the National University of Medical Sciences (NUMS) on June 11, coinciding with World Environment Day.

According to National University of Medical Sciences, the launch event brought together top higher education institutions from every region of Pakistan, demonstrating a unified commitment to waste reduction and sustainable practices. The institutions involved include Aga Khan University, Ayub Medical College, Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering, and Management Sciences, Karakoram International University, Lahore University of Management Sciences, Mirpur University of Science and Technology, and the National University of Sciences and Technology.

The event featured discussions on campus waste reduction strategies, leadership messages, and a collective pledge to pursue zero waste goals. Notably, students Waleed Sheikh and Hamna Asif from NUMS played key roles as moderators, emphasizing the significant involvement of youth in this initiative. The event included several noteworthy contributions, such as a video message from Richard Anthony, President of the Zero Waste International Alliance, welcoming Pakistan to the international community focused on zero waste efforts.

Speakers from each university presented their respective strategies and achievements in waste management, fostering a collaborative atmosphere. The event also showcased a student-compiled video highlighting individual contributions towards sustainability.

The establishment of ZWAP marks a significant step for Pakistani universities in mobilizing academic resources and community involvement towards minimizing environmental impact, underscored by the support from both national and international figures in the zero waste movement.