Innovators recognised on Environment Day
To kick off the World Environment Day celebrations, Devcom-Pakistan hosted the Pakistan Environmental Awards and Conference of Best Practices 2025 under the theme "Beyond Plastic Waste – Navigating Climate and Environmental Risks."
The organisers gathered leading voices in environmental policy, science, conservation, and sustainable development. World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5 since 1973 under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), is the largest global platform for environmental awareness. This year, the global celebration is being hosted by the Republic of Korea with a focus on ending plastic pollution - a major threat to climate goals, ocean health, biodiversity, and human wellbeing.
Environmental Conservation Awards (Individuals) recognised the green champions, including Rina Saeed Khan, for her transformative voluntary leadership as Chairperson of the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board.
Sana Raja, for her outstanding wildlife rescue efforts, including the rehabilitation of endangered species such as pangolins and dancing bears. Teacher Usman, for his community-driven rainwater harvesting initiative, building over 770 ponds and promoting water conservation in mosques.
Muhammad Irshad Ramay, an environmental engineer who established a cleaner production centre in Pakistan, promoting sustainability and resource efficiency. Riffat Ara Baig, for engaging over 5,000 students in environmental art, awareness campaigns, and cleanup drives since 1996.
Silvia Shamoon, for her decade-long work in improving slum environments through tree plantation, waste segregation, and youth empowerment.
Special Mentions were made for Dr Mehar Nigar for her "Saaf Muhalla Saaf Pakistan" initiative. Kashaf Akhtar for launching a startup that recycles single-use plastics into eco-friendly planters and tiles.
Federal Minister for Board of Investment (BOI) delivered an impactful speech and praised the awards initiative as a step toward recognising and motivating sustainability efforts in the country.
He said: "Beating plastic pollution is not just an environmental necessity - it is a national imperative.
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