On June 6, 2024, BUITEMS hosted a highly impactful National Seminar on Environmental Challenges in Balochistan to mark World Environment Day. This year's theme, "Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience," provided a vital framework for discussions aimed at addressing the pressing environmental issues faced by the region. The event brought together experts, academics, and policymakers to address pressing environmental issues and explore sustainable solutions for the region.
The seminar, organized by Dr. Kaleem U. Kakar, Associate Professor at the Department of Microbiology, BUITEMS, in collaboration with the Pakistan Academy of Environmental Sciences and the Asian Study Centre, saw a robust turnout with 70 in-house participants and 400 online attendees. This hybrid format facilitated broad engagement from both local and international experts, fostering an inclusive dialogue on sustainable solutions.
The seminar aimed to highlight the critical environmental challenges facing Balochistan, discuss sustainable solutions, and foster collaboration among experts. The event commenced with an inaugural ceremony that included a recitation from the Holy Quran, the national anthem, and a welcome address by Dr. Muhammad Naeem Shahwani, Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences & Informatics (FLSI).
The morning session featured a series of keynote presentations by distinguished speakers. Dr. Waheed Yousaf, Director of the Pakistan Academy of Environmental Sciences and the Asian Study Centre, delivered a comprehensive overview of the state of the environment in Balochistan. His presentation set the stage for a series of thought-provoking discussions on various environmental issues. Dr. Najam Ul Saqib, Landfill Manager at Tirohia Waste Management in New Zealand, shared insights on the New Zealand Emission Trading Scheme and its relevance to waste disposal. Dr. Zarqa Nawaz from Zhejiang University, China, discussed urban reforestation and its potential benefits for Balochistan, while Dr. Munawar Shah from Tongji University, Shanghai, highlighted the use of GIS and remote sensing in monitoring natural hazards.
The seminar also featured presentations by local experts from BUITEMS, including Dr. Malik Muhammad Akhter, who addressed water scarcity challenges in Balochistan, and Dr. Faheem Nawaz, who discussed advanced oxidation processes for wastewater treatment. Mr. Taimoor Shah Durrani, a PhD scholar at BUITEMS, presented a case study on groundwater quality and health in Balochistan, providing valuable insights into local environmental issues. Additionally, Dr. Aziz Ahmed, Professor at the department of Economics, shed light on economic aspects and importance of environmental economics.
In the closing session, Dr. Kaleem U. Kakar summarized the proceedings and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration and research to address environmental challenges. The event concluded with remarks by the organizing committee chair and a special guest, followed by a vote of thanks to acknowledge the contributions of all participants and contributors. All participants were distributed free certificates, and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was drafted between BUITEMS and the Asian Study Centre.