By Commerce Reporter
LAHORE: President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry Mian Abuzar Shad has said that the business community is fully aware of its responsibilities regarding environmental protection is taking every possible measure in this regard. He urged the government to provide maximum facilitation and support to the business sector in this regard.
He expressed these views during a meeting with Director General Environment, Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh. LCCI Executive Committee Members Syed Salman Ali and Waqas Aslam were also present on the occasion.
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Mian Abuzar Shad said that the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and the business community have always extended cooperation to the government for environmental improvement. He said that the solution to industrial challenges does not lie in restrictions or closures but in consultation and mutual cooperation. He said that if industries are taken into confidence while formulating policies, not only can environmental pollution be effectively controlled but industrial growth and employment opportunities can also be ensured.
The LCCI President said that instead of imposing bans on industries, attention should be focused on technology upgradation, environment-friendly practices and provision of necessary facilities. He underlined that environmental protection is a shared responsibility of the government, business community and civil society.
Mian Abuzar Shad pointed out that the major cause of smog in Punjab is traffic emissions, followed by the burning of crop residues, while industries contribute only 9% to the problem. Therefore, holding industries solely responsible for smog and pollution is unjustified. He suggested that the government should provide zero-markup loans for the installation of scrubbers and environment-friendly machinery. Furthermore, industries adopting green initiatives should be given special incentives and certificates.
He also proposed the establishment of a facilitation desk at the Lahore Chamber for direct coordination with industries to ensure timely resolution of issues. Public awareness campaigns on smog and environmental issues should also be made more effective so that citizens may act responsibly.
Mian Abuzar Shad said that the Lahore Chamber has always guided its members on tackling smog and environmental challenges and will continue to extend full cooperation to the Environment Protection Department in the future.
Speaking on the occasion, DG Environment Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh acknowledged that environmental issues are a serious challenge that requires collective efforts from all segments of society, including industries. He lauded the role of LCCI, stating that the Chamber has always been at the forefront of initiatives for environmental betterment. He also announced the appointment of Anjum Riaz as a focal person for addressing industrial concerns.
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