- December 19, 2023
- Posted by: Muhammad Afzaal
- Category: RBS News
The Government of Gilgit-Baltistan and Nestlé Pakistan have teamed up to manage approximately 2,700 tons of packaging waste in Gilgit, Hunza, and Skardu in 2023, as per reports. Their joint effort acknowledges the global challenge of plastic waste and aims to implement effective waste management support strategies. These strategies support sustainable tourism in these beautiful areas.
The breathtaking northern regions of Pakistan, include Gilgit, Hunza, and Skardu. These have seen a significant rise in tourism, with over a million visitors each year. While this has boosted local economies, it has also resulted in a troubling increase in plastic waste. It also endangers the natural beauty of the region.
Read: LWMC Starts A Campaign To Wash Roads And Combat Air Pollution In Lahore
To address this issue, Nestlé Pakistan, in line with its global commitment to a waste-free future, partnered with the Government of Gilgit-Baltistan to initiate the Clean Gilgit-Baltistan Project. This initiative concentrates on waste segregation and recycling systems. This includes the installation of three baling machines. Moreover. these machines manage 2,700 tons of plastic and paper packaging waste by the end of 2023.
The collaboration goes beyond waste management support infrastructure. Nestlé Pakistan organized training sessions in Lahore, empowering 30 trainers to operate the newly installed machines. Furthermore, Nestlé Pakistan contributed 10,000 reusable bags to the Gilgit Baltistan Waste Management Company, aiming to distribute them among the local communities in Hunza and Gilgit.
As part of the Clean Gilgit-Baltistan Project, Nestlé Pakistan also contributed to enhancing the tourist experience by installing 48 benches. Bins at key attractions like Gilgit City Park, Attabad Lake, Hussaini Bridge in Hunza, Upper Kachura Lake, Lower Kachura Road, and Viewpoint Sadpara Lake in Skardu. These benches and bins, made from recycled plastics, aim to encourage responsible waste disposal among tourists.
Also Read: ADB To Fund Development Projects In KP And Sindh With USD 659 Million
This comprehensive project aligns with Nestlé Pakistan’s dedication to reducing the environmental impact of packaging waste, per the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production), Goal 13 (Addressing Climate Change), Goal 15 (Preserving Life on Land), and Goal 17 (Building Partnerships for Goals).
Not only addresses the urgent issue of plastic pollution in the region. They also establish a model for sustainable tourism practices. However, this practice prioritizes environmental conservation.
For more updates keep visiting Royal Business Solutions.