ADB Plans Low Carbon Agriculture Project in Pakistan

FAISALABAD: To tackle agricultural and environmental challenges for a sustainable future, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is developing a USD 3 million project focused on a low carbon agriculture mechanism in Pakistan.

This announcement was made by Noriko Sato, ADB’s Senior Natural Resources Specialist, during a meeting at the Syndicate Room. The meeting was attended by Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan, Chairperson of the Punjab Higher Education Commission (PHEC), Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali, Vice Chancellor of the University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF), and other UAF scientists.

The project’s framework is being created in collaboration with UAF. Discussions during the meeting centered on various project aspects, with attendees acknowledging Noriko Sato’s significant contributions, particularly to Pakistan’s agriculture sector.

Noriko Sato stated that the project will encompass seed breeding, mechanisms for Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and advanced technological applications. She noted ADB’s commitment to Pakistan’s inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient advancement through investments in economic management, energy, food security, institutional capabilities, the private sector, public finance, social services, transportation, and urban infrastructure.

Prof Dr Iqrar Ahmad Khan emphasized Noriko Sato’s pivotal role in enhancing Pakistan’s agricultural sector. He stressed that environmental deterioration poses a critical threat requiring collaborative action. He also mentioned ADB’s previous work with UAF on mitigation and climate change initiatives, which yielded substantial outcomes. He highlighted the nation’s ongoing agricultural and food security issues, including environmental changes, water shortages, and diminished productivity, underscoring the necessity for scientifically grounded solutions for a better future.

Prof Dr Zulfiqar Ali affirmed UAF’s dedication to strengthening its international connections to revolutionize agriculture via technological advancements, research, and collaborations with industry. He also noted that UAF has successfully completed approximately 20 technical assistance projects and five research and development projects in partnership with ADB.

He lauded Noriko Sato’s exceptional dedication to Pakistan and her partnership with UAF in addressing diverse national agricultural and food security concerns.