Business community’s role in green management, carbon reduction stressed

LAHORE, Mar 31 (APP): Green management and carbon reduction is need of the hour, and business community, while planning business growth strategies, must consider its effective role in fulfilling the social responsibility of keeping the environment clean.
This was the crux of speakers’ views shared at a seminar titled ‘Building Green Corporate Culture for Business Growth’ held here at Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Tuesday.
The seminar was also addressed by LCCI President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol, Convener Standing Committee on Corporate Relations Malik Amer Salam, CEO AESP Zahid S. Malik, GM Corporate Sustainability, Interloop, Fauz ul Azeem, National Engineering Manager Coca-Cola Muhammad Asif, and LUMS faculty member Muhammad Awais.
LCCI Vice President Khurram Lodhi, former SVP Ali Hussam Asghar, former VP Haris Ateeq and Executive Committee Member Hafiz Sajjad were also present.
Addressing the seminar, LCCI President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol said that sustainable business growth possible only through green corporate culture, adding that business is not only about earning profits but also about what we leave behind for society and future generations.
Saigol stated that countries around the world are rapidly promoting green practices, and Pakistan’s industry and business sector must also adopt environmentally friendly business models.
He added that promoting industry and business alongside green culture has now become essential, and businesses must move forward under the principles of green management. Rnewable energy projects can be launched using millions of tons of waste, while value addition and recycling can not only improve the environment but also create new economic opportunities, he suggested.
Zahid S. Malik said that compared to the pre-industrial era, the balance between carbon and oxygen in the world has changed significantly, mainly due to human activities over centuries. Referring to the World Bank, he said that around 40 million people worldwide suffer from respiratory diseases, highlighting the need to leave behind a clean and green environment along with economic prosperity for future generations.
Muhammad Asif stated that every stage of manufacturing processes and supply chains must be understood, as each human activity contributes to the carbon footprint. He noted that countries around the world are adopting clear strategies to reduce carbon emissions, while trees and natural ecosystems play a vital role in maintaining carbon balance.
He stressed that industries must regularly assess the environmental impact of their operations.
Fauz ul Azeem said that understanding the carbon emissions of products has become increasingly important globally.
Referring to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, he explained that future product competitiveness will depend on how low their carbon emissions are during production. He added that Pakistan’s biggest challenge is the lack of reliable data and effective mechanisms needed to accurately measure carbon emissions.
Muhammad Awais said that climate change is not only an environmental issue but also directly affects the economy, health, and human life. He warned that Pakistan is among the countries most vulnerable to climate change, making immediate action necessary. He added that decisions made today will impact decades ahead, therefore businesses and society must work together to take practical and positive steps.
The seminar concluded with consensus that promoting a green corporate culture, carbon management, recycling, alternative energy sources, and environmentally friendly policies is essential for sustainable business growth.