World Environment Day and Pakistan

on 19/06/2023

World Environment Day is celebrated annually on June 5th and serves as a global platform to raise awareness and take action on pressing environmental issues. Here are some key points about World Environment Day:
Purpose: World Environment Day, established by the United Nations in 1972, aims to encourage global awareness and action for the protection of our environment. It promotes engagement from individuals, communities, organizations, and governments to address environmental challenges.
Theme: Each year, World Environment Day has a specific theme that focuses on a pressing environmental issue. The theme provides a framework for activities, discussions, and initiatives related to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
Global participation: World Environment Day is celebrated in over 100 countries, with various activities including tree planting, clean-up campaigns, awareness-raising events, workshops, seminars, and policy dialogues. It provides an opportunity for people worldwide to come together and contribute towards positive environmental action.
Host country: Each year, a different country is chosen to be the global host of World Environment Day. The host country plays a significant role in organizing events and promoting the theme on a global scale. The host country’s environmental challenges and initiatives are highlighted, and it serves as a platform to showcase success stories and inspire action.
Key messages: World Environment Day emphasizes the importance of individual and collective action in addressing environmental issues. It encourages sustainable practices such as reducing waste, conserving resources, protecting biodiversity, promoting renewable energy, and adopting eco-friendly lifestyles.
Impact and outcomes: World Environment Day aims to create momentum and generate positive change. It seeks to influence policy decisions, drive sustainable development agendas, mobilize communities, and promote environmental stewardship at all levels.
World Environment Day serves as a reminder of our shared responsibility to protect and preserve the environment for current and future generations. It encourages everyone to take action, no matter how small, to make a positive impact on the planet.
CLIMATE ISSUES IN PAKISTAN
Pakistan is a country that is vulnerable to various climate issues due to its geographic location and socio-economic conditions. The 2022 Pakistan floods mainly caused by increased precipitation and glaciers melting fueled by climate change, destroyed around 50% of the crops of Pakistan which can lead to food shortages. Some of the major climate issues in Pakistan are:
Water scarcity: Pakistan is a water-stressed country, and climate change is exacerbating the situation. The country heavily relies on its rivers and glaciers for its water needs, but due to global warming, the glaciers are melting at an alarming rate, which is leading to a reduction in the water flow of rivers.
Floods: Pakistan is also prone to frequent and severe floods, which can cause widespread devastation. Floods are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, and they can result in the loss of lives, infrastructure damage, and displacement of people.
Heatwaves: Pakistan is experiencing more frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. These heatwaves can cause heatstroke, dehydration, and even death, particularly among vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and outdoor workers.
Droughts: Droughts are becoming more common in Pakistan due to changes in precipitation patterns, which are causing water scarcity and affecting agriculture. This can result in food insecurity and economic losses for farmers.
Glacial retreat: Pakistan has one of the largest glaciers outside the polar regions, and these glaciers are melting at an alarming rate. This melting is causing the formation of glacial lakes, which can burst and cause floods downstream.
Sea level rise: Pakistan has a long coastline, and rising sea levels due to climate change can cause coastal erosion, loss of land, and damage to infrastructure.
The government of Pakistan is taking steps to address these climate issues, such as developing climate policies and implementing adaptation measures. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of climate change and reduce its impacts on the country.
ACTIONS TO REDUCE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE
Several actions can be taken to address climate issues in Pakistan. Here are a few examples:
Promote renewable energy: Pakistan can invest in renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower. This can help reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Increase forest cover: Pakistan can increase its forest cover by planting more trees, which can help sequester carbon and reduce the impact of climate change. This can also help reduce soil erosion, improve air quality, and provide habitats for wildlife.
Improve water management: Pakistan can improve its water management by promoting water conservation, building water storage infrastructure, and implementing efficient irrigation practices. This can help address water scarcity and reduce the impact of floods and droughts.
Promote sustainable agriculture: Pakistan can promote sustainable agriculture practices such as conservation farming, crop rotation, and organic farming. This can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve soil health, and increase food security.
Build climate-resilient infrastructure: Pakistan can build infrastructure that is designed to withstand the impacts of climate change, such as floods and sea level rise. This can include building flood barriers, improving drainage systems, and relocating vulnerable communities.
Raise public awareness: Pakistan can raise public awareness about the impact of climate change and promote actions that individuals can take to reduce their carbon footprint. This can include promoting energy conservation, reducing waste, and using public transportation.
These actions require a collaborative effort between the government, private sector, and civil society to address climate change in Pakistan.

IEP-SAC Eastern Province holds Technical Seminar on ‘Net Zero Energy Transition.’

on 19/06/2023

The global energy landscape is experiencing a vibrant and intriguing transition, commonly termed as ‘Net Zero Energy Transition’ or ‘Sustainable Energy Transition’. The 21st-century energy transition – mainly driven by the fight against climate change – is much more dynamic and impactful in comparison with the preceding energy transitions in recorded history. In the wake of the Paris Agreement and the United Nation’s call for a sustainable energy transition by 2050, nations across the world are actively pursuing Net Zero targets. KSA as part of Vision 2030, has also been announced to become net zero by 2060.
Considering the importance of the recent global energy transition, The Institution of Engineers, Pakistan – Saudi Arabian Center, Eastern Province Sub Center organized the 36th Annual Technical seminar in Al Khobar with the title of ‘Net Zero Energy Transition: Dynamics & Prospects’, on Wednesday, May 24, 2023. The talk was presented by Dr. Muhammad Asif, a Professor at the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals.
Proceedings of the evening started by the Master of the ceremony, Engr. Ahmed Raza an executive council member, followed by the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran by Dr. Arshad Jamal.
General Secretary, Engr. Mohammad Abrar Shami outlined the objectives and activities of IEP-SAC-EP for 2022-23.
Executive Council member, Dr. Farooq Saeed gave the introduction of the keynote speaker, Dr. Muhammad Asif. He has over 20 years of research, teaching, and consultancy experience across Europe and the Middle East. Dr. Asif is a Charted Engineer, Certified Energy Manager, Member of the Energy Institute, and author of over 125 research publications including 7 books.
In his presentation, the keynote speaker examined the broader dynamics of Net Zero Energy Transition, considering its major drivers, challenges, and prospects. He also reflected upon the relevant global technological and policy trends, which classify the energy transition into four main technological dimensions (4Ds): Decarbonization, Decreasing use of energy, Decentralization, and Digitalization.
The Guest of Honor, Engr. Sameer Basonbul, Plant Leader of GE Manufacturing & Technology Center, Dammam (GEMTEC), thanked the council for inviting him to the event and applauded the technical presentation by Dr. Muhammad Asif.
Engr. Abdul Qadir Akbani, Finance Secretary IEP-SAC-EP introduced the Chief Guest and briefly talked about the Sponsor of the evening, Al Qahtani Pipe Coating Industries,
The Chief Guest Engr. Abdul Hadi Tariq Al-Qahtani, Chief Operating Officer of Al Qahtani Pipe Coating Industries, commended the performance of IEP-SAC-EP, and expressed his good wishes for success in the future. He appreciated the presentation and admired the high caliber, hard work, dedication, and professional skills of Pakistani Engineers. He also acknowledged the efforts and contribution of the Pakistani Engineers’ fraternity to the development of the Kingdom.
Engr. Abdul Qadir Akbani, expressed his deep gratitude to the Chief Guest for sponsoring the evening by Al Qahtani Pipe Coating Industries. He also thanked all Council members, fellow engineers, and media personnel on behalf of Chairman Engr. Rizwan Ahmed and Founder of IEP-SAC-EP, Engr Ismet Amin Khawaja, for playing an important role in making the event successful.
Shields of Appreciation were distributed to the keynote speaker, Dr. Asif, Chief Guest Engr. Abdul Hadi Tariq Al-Qahtani, Guest of Honor Engr. Sameer Basonbul, Executive Council Member Engr. Asad Hassan, Media Representatives Mr. Malik Nadeem Awan & Mr. Taher Karamat in appreciation of their outstanding contribution. The evening concluded with a Lucky Draw for respected guests, followed by a scrumptious dinner.

Seminar on HSE and ESG Solutions by Systech

on 19/06/2023

The seminar was organized by Systech International in collaboration with IBM on 24th May 2023 to create awareness of Health, Safety and Environment & ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reporting in Pakistan. The seminar also showcased the IBM solutions for the HSE and ESG reporting. The participants showed great interest in these solutions.
The seminar emphasised the significance of HSE management in today’s technology-driven and sustainability-focused era. The importance of incorporating environmental, social, and governance factors (ESG) into strategic blueprints was emphasized, stressing the interdependence between business growth, societal well- being, and environmental conservation.
Mr. Shams Ladak, Executive Director, Systech International spoke about a veteran practicing EAM for the last 30 years. He also shared his experience of implementing HSE solutions along with EAM solutions at various national and international companies. He provided insights into their innovative HSE solutions. His presentation set the stage for understanding the company’s role in offering effective HSE solutions.
Mr. Shaukat Khokhar, Country Manager Partner Ecosystem, IBM Technology, Pakistan and Afghanistan, spoke about Partner Ecosystem and how it creates a bridge between IBM and Business Partners. He spoke about the symbiotic relationship between IBM and Systech International. He shed light on how their collaborative efforts are shaping the future of HSE management.
Mr. Asim Rashid, President, The American Association of Safety Professionals, Pakistan Chapter, delivered a presentation on the importance of data in HSE management. He emphasized how data analysis can contribute towards safer and more effective workplaces. He has more than 20 years’ experience of this subject.
Mr. Russel Bee, Lead Product Architect of the IBM HSE Solution, IBM UK, presented a live demonstration of the IBM HSE Application. His informative demonstration showcased the potential of technology in revolutionizing HSE management. Russel Bee has been associated with IBM for 16+ years. He leads the team of developers who improve the functionality of IBM HSE solution.
Dr. Nuzhat Khan, Founder/CEO, BlueNet+, discussed the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) aspects of HSE management. Her presentation shed light on the broad impacts and responsibilities of the corporate sector in sustaining the environment. Previously she served as Director General in National Institute of Oceanography.
Ms. Sophia Hasnain, Founder & CEO, Linked Things Pvt. Ltd., Delivered a thought-provoking presentation on the role of ‘Digital Twins’ in EHS. She discussed how this emerging technology can increase coordination and reduce risks in the HSE field. She is an Electrical Engineer and has 23 years of industry exposure. She has expertise in Digital Twins, IoT and Metaverse of Things.
Mr. Tracy Jefferson, Executive Account Manager, EBUSINESS STRATEGIES LLC, Discussed the Carbon Footprint & IBM Envizi Suite. Her presentation focused on understanding the impact of carbon footprints and effective management strategies in the context of climate change. Tracy is an ex-IBMer and Blue Ocean Strategy Advocate.
In closing, the seminar organizers expressed their gratitude to all participants for their valuable contributions and attendance. The event aimed to inspire attendees to continue driving innovation and progress in HSE management in their respective fields.
The seminar concluded with the hope of future successful events to further explore and enhance HSE practices.

What ITIA Bridge Program has introduced in Sindh’s institutions?

on 19/06/2023

If detailed communication across various public universities is to be believed the IT Industry Academia Bridge Program has taken its roots in the Sindh province, at least, whereas per the agreement signed between the Information, Science and Technology Department (ISTD) and Hazza Institute of Technology 3000 undergraduates are to be trained in the most modern skills ruling the IT industry now.
I am confident that after this training I shall be able to join any software house or start earning from home, responds a trainee in Sindh University Jamshoro’s Computer Department. Braving the sweltering June heat in hilly Jamshoro, he is not the only one who sees his future turning clear, almost everyone in the training session had begun to visualize what this training is about to bring for them.
Normally undergraduates in our universities keep on swinging about their future but the bridge program has helped them set a kind of objective. ‘I will be a programmer and thus pursuing this training, says yet another trainee who was sitting in another university in Bhit Shah just 50 kilometers away from Jamshoro. His class fellows were found focused on one or another skill that the program has introduced in the training.
Both classes in Jamshoro and Bhit Shah had a stark similarity other than sweltering temperatures. The trainers marked by the Hazza Institute have been able to bolster the confidence of the trainees whose university courses might have lagged to instill good prospects for the future; this training methodology has been able to bridge the gap. ‘’We are doing all these courses practically which we knew theoretically before and trainers are focused’, say the students of both universities.
But the response of trainees and trainers apart, what has made this program more famous is the analysis of the focal persons in the universities which now have come in the domain of the bridge program. The best part of the program is that it is linked with the IT industry and thus focuses practical part of education, says Dr. Intesab, Chairman of the Computer Systems Department of the Quaid-e-Awam University of Engineering, Science & Technology (QUEST), Nawabshah. Dr. Intesab is the focal person of the program but his views are not isolated ones. His views draw a parallel with Dr. Qasim Memon at Sifu University Bhit Shah and Dr. Khalil at Sindh University Jamshoro. All three heads of their departments suggest the comprehensive practical side of the program makes it distinct.
This communication suggests that since the universities rely mostly on a theoretical approach, the students remain thirsty on the practical side and this program has created a real bridge.
The most interesting aspect is that public universities are not the only institutions that require fast-track updating of their curriculum which normally see changes after three to four years, the private universities which are deemed to be better paint the same picture. ‘’In this program, we are being trained in practical terms that we did not get in normal university courses’, says a female trainee at ISRA University Hyderabad. Interestingly, her views depict the same picture that is portrayed by yet another girl in IoBM Karachi. Sitting 200 kilometers away but they find the same gap between theory and practice.
Engineering Reviews’ visit to these universities unfolded yet another revelation that no matter whether you are in IoBM Karachi or ISRA University Hyderabad or Bhit Shah or Nawabshah, the university students’ aptitude for learning remains the same.

PSDP portal launched, data of over Rs.1 trillion projects available for insight

on 19/06/2023

Federal Minister for Planning Development and Special Initiatives, Ashan Iqbal last week officially launched Pakistan’s pioneering PSDP portal, country’s official news agency reported.
For the first time in the country’s history, the data of Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) projects (ongoing and previous year) worth Rs 1.1 trillion has been made available at the PSDP portal which has been formally launched for the citizens to ensure transparency.
The event was attended by the Additional Secretary Planning Ministry, Members Planning Commission, the Chairman of Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission SUPARCO and other stakeholders, said a press release.
It is noted that the PSDP, which constitutes the Federal Development Budget, serves as a crucial framework for the government’s development agenda, setting sectoral and regional priorities under the national plan.
This strategic move aims to harness the potential of digital technologies to enhance transparency, improve governance, and promote public awareness of the government’s development course and priorities.
Through the digital platform, citizens will have greater insight into the development projects being undertaken across the country.
It enables them to understand the objectives, scope, and impact of each project, promoting public engagement and participation
Ahsan Iqbal termed this initiative a ‘landmark’ in the country’s history which will ensure transparency in the PSDP projects while engaging the citizens directly through this portal.
“The initiative will help to eliminate the trust deficit between the state and citizens which remained weak in the past, remarked the minister, while highlighting several initiatives taken by the incumbent government since it came into power in April 2020.
The Planning Ministry has recently launched ‘5Es framework for the country’s development while focusing on Exports, Energy E- Pakistan, Environment and Equity. This vital step towards digitalization aligns with the vision of e-Pakistan under the ‘5Es Framework to Turnaround Pakistan’ and underscores the commitment of the Planning Ministry to leverage technology for the betterment of our nation,” remarked the Minister.
Member Governance, Innovation & Reforms at Planning Commission, Dr Adnan Rafiq who took this initiative, under the vision of Planning Minister Ahsan Iqal highlighted the key features of the project.
“The portal displays data on all ongoing PSDP Projects which are also accessible to every citizen as the Ministry has already established a Champions of Reforms Network to seek input from citizens in reviewing and evaluating project proposals under PSDP,” explained Dr Rafiq.
It is noted that the online portal provides an interactive map interface, allowing users to visualize the geographical spread of projects. The users can search for projects by location, view project profiles, and gain a comprehensive understanding of the development initiatives in specific areas.
Chairman SUPARCO Maj General Amer Nadeem while appreciating the Planning Ministry for taking this important step believed that space technology and its applications play a pivotal role in achieving national development goals worldwide.
“Geospatial technologies are a powerful tool that has the potential to revolutionise the way we make decisions, thereby saving time and resources and inspiring transparency.