By Imran Ammar

ISLAMABAD: Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Muhammad Ali Randhawa on Friday held a meeting with United Nations Senior Coordination Officer for Climate and Environment and UNEP Focal Point Alex Forbes to discuss environmental protection measures and the acquisition of carbon credits in the federal capital.

The meeting was attended by CDA Member Environment Esfandyar Baloch, Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon, Director General Resource, and other senior officials. Discussions focused on strategies for reducing carbon emissions, improving environmental sustainability, and utilising international carbon markets for Islamabad.

Chairman CDA said the authority is pursuing a comprehensive strategy for environmental protection and improvement of Islamabad. He noted that CDA aims to benefit from global frameworks and carbon credit markets to support green initiatives in the capital.

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He informed the meeting that CDA is working on multiple projects aimed at environmental conservation and carbon credit acquisition, including plans to increase green cover by converting brown areas into green spaces across Islamabad.

Muhammad Ali Randhawa also highlighted ongoing efforts to introduce a modern solid waste management system, which could contribute to carbon credit generation. He said a fleet of 160 environmentally friendly electric feeder buses is already operating successfully in the capital, adding that future expansion of electric tram and eco-friendly transport projects could further support emission reduction goals.

The chairman added that the completion of development projects in Islamabad would not only enhance public convenience but also help reduce carbon emissions. He said CDA is also working to establish modern scientific landfill sites in line with international standards to curb environmental pollution.

United Nations official Alex Forbes emphasised the importance of technical assistance and future cooperation, stating that support for acquiring carbon credits under international frameworks and green programmes would be considered.

Chairman CDA said collaboration with the United Nations and other international development partners is essential to address environmental challenges. He reaffirmed CDA’s commitment to benefiting from UNEP’s expertise, capacity-building initiatives, and technical support to make tangible progress in acquiring carbon credits and promoting sustainable development in Islamabad.