The Punjab Government and Punjab Bank have partnered with China’s Bluetech Clean Air Alliance to tackle air pollution and encourage sustainable development in Punjab. Earlier this month, they signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) outlining initiatives to introduce green technologies, boost local innovation, and enhance capacity building within the province.
Under this collaboration, Punjab will adopt green technologies and implement cost-effective solutions tailored to its severe air pollution challenges. The partnership will focus on policy advisory, technology transfer, demonstration programs, and enterprise integration, as stated by Bluetech Chairman Xie Hongxing.
Lahore, Punjab’s capital, has been grappling with toxic smog, with air quality index readings surpassing 1,000, halting daily life and endangering the health of its 13 million residents. Mr. Xie emphasized the need for science-based research to understand the sources, mechanisms, and spread of air pollution.
China’s experience in combating air pollution, including its Action Plan for Air Pollution Prevention and Control launched in 2013, offers valuable insights for Punjab. Over the past decade, China reduced PM2.5 concentrations in 74 major cities by 57.4%, with heavily polluted days dropping by 90%.
Bluetech has reviewed over 600 innovative clean air technologies from 20 countries through its annual technology solicitation program, which it plans to extend to Punjab. This program aims to identify solutions that can address the province’s specific pollution challenges.
Mr. Xie noted that addressing air pollution requires changes to the energy mix and industrial structure, supported by policy adjustments and technological upgrades. Plans are underway to introduce the Bluetech Award program to Punjab, promoting sustainable and locally relevant technology solutions.
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