Islamabad
Pakistan’s value-added, export-oriented textile sector faces growing pressure to adopt sustainable practices and reduce its carbon footprint in order to remain competitive in global markets increasingly focused on environmental responsibility. Industry experts emphasize that urgent climate action and innovation are essential for securing the sector’s future growth and aligning with international sustainability standards.
The textile industry’s transition toward carbon neutrality is vital not only to meet global buyer demands but also to protect Pakistan’s economy and vulnerable communities from the increasing risks of climate change. With Pakistan emitting roughly 585 million tons of carbon dioxide annually and grappling with severe climate vulnerabilities, including the devastating floods of 2022, there is a pressing need for sustainable industrial development and climate resilience.
Efforts to reduce emissions must be comprehensive, spanning renewable energy adoption, energy efficiency improvements, sustainable raw material sourcing, and stronger collaboration between government, industry, and academic institutions. Experts highlight that transitioning to solar and biodiesel energy sources, improving factory operations, promoting climate-smart agriculture, and investing in research and development will be key to achieving meaningful progress.
Midway through this urgent push, the Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA) has stepped forward with a clear vision and commitment to support the textile sector’s sustainable transformation. PRGMEA’s North Zone Chairman, Dr. Ayyazuddin, addressed a seminar in Lahore outlining the critical role the industry can play in leading Pakistan’s carbon-neutral export agenda.
Dr. Ayyazuddin emphasized that the textile sector can become a global leader in sustainable exports by combining policy support, renewable energy integration, and cross-sector partnerships. “Achieving carbon neutrality is essential not only for meeting international market requirements but also for ensuring Pakistan’s long-term economic security and climate resilience,” he said.
Under Pakistan’s latest Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC 3.0), the country aims to reduce projected greenhouse gas emissions by 50 percent by 2035, with 17 percent of reductions coming from domestic actions and 33 percent from international assistance. Dr. Ayyazuddin called for close cooperation among government ministries, the private sector, and trade associations like PRGMEA to turn these ambitious targets into reality.
He proposed a four-pronged approach to emissions reduction in the textile industry: transitioning to renewable energy and exploring carbon markets; improving energy efficiency in manufacturing; promoting sustainable farming practices for cotton and other raw materials; and enhancing collaboration among government, academia, industry, and international partners.
Afforestation was highlighted as a nature-based solution to offset carbon emissions, with large-scale tree planting on farmlands, rangelands, and coastal areas offering significant carbon absorption potential. Dr. Ayyazuddin urged public and private stakeholders to support reforestation and ecosystem restoration initiatives.
He also pointed to ongoing sustainability efforts within the textile sector, such as recycling 250 tonnes of textile waste daily in key industrial zones and pilot projects involving biodiesel fuel use and green building design. These examples illustrate that sustainable industrial practices are both feasible and economically viable.
“Carbon neutrality is achievable with determination, innovation, and collective effort,” Dr. Ayyazuddin concluded. “By embracing these principles, Pakistan’s textile industry can strengthen its global position while contributing to a cleaner and safer environment.”
PRGMEA reaffirmed its commitment to a just transition and sustainable trade in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the UN Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action. The association urged all stakeholders to take joint responsibility in building a climate-smart future for Pakistan’s textile sector.
