ISLAMABAD: Young Pakistani innovators on Thursday presented climate technology projects and policy ideas at a UK-backed event aimed at encouraging youth leadership in tackling climate change.
The event, organized by the British High Commission and Oxford Policy Management under the UK–Pakistan Green Compact, brought together entrepreneurs, policymakers and climate experts.
The £35 million compact, launched by the two countries in December last year, aims to strengthen climate resilience, accelerate the clean energy transition and support nature-based approaches such as mangrove conservation.
“Climate is a topic of real importance to both countries, which is why we chose the Green Compact,” Anna Ballance, Senior Climate Lead at the British High Commission, said, according to the organizers.
“It covers not only climate action, including adaptation and mitigation, but also nature, recognizing the huge role it plays in Pakistan’s development and economy, as well as the close link between environmental management and climate impacts,” she added.
Aisha Humera Chaudhary, federal secretary at the climate change ministry, said the government sees youth engagement as central to advancing climate action.
“I am really glad to visit the projects today,” she said. “It is a moment of pride to see youth taking responsibility and thinking of community-oriented solutions. Now it is our duty to further nurture these initiatives under supportive policies.”
Participants presented projects ranging from renewable energy technologies to waste-reduction systems and artificial intelligence tools designed to address environmental challenges.
One project focused on reducing natural gas waste from household water heaters by improving energy efficiency.
Pakistan is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change despite contributing less than one percent of global greenhouse gas emissions.
The event also included discussions between young innovators and senior experts on climate policy, green jobs and the role of youth in shaping national and global climate responses.
With more than 60 percent of Pakistan’s population under the age of 30, the organizers said youth-driven initiatives could play an important role in shaping the country’s response to climate risks.
