ISLAMABAD, March 30 (Xinhua) -- Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Sunday that the country is committed to mitigate waste pollution to save the environment, public health and national economy, urging for collective efforts to achieve a zero-waste society.

"Waste pollution is a pressing crisis and it is imperative that we move beyond the linear take-make-dispose economy and embrace a circular model focused on waste reduction and resource efficiency for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future," Sharif said in his message on the occasion of the International Day of Zero Waste.

Highlighting various steps to combat waste pollution by the country, the prime minister said that with rapid urbanization and industrial growth, Pakistan must adopt sustainable waste management solutions that protect its environment and drive economic and social development.

Plastic and hazardous waste are adversely affecting rivers, landfills, and air, exacerbating climate change, and the government has been taking measures in this regard, he said, adding that the plastic waste management action plan is eliminating single-use plastics, encouraging biodegradable alternatives, and expanding recycling efforts.

"We are also advocating Extended Producer Responsibility to ensure manufacturers take accountability for the entire lifecycle of their products, integrating waste management into production and packaging," he added.

Besides that, he said the country's initiative to restore the Indus River Basin by reducing pollution and promoting conservation and advocacy campaigns like clean green Pakistan movement to empower communities to enhance waste management at the grassroots level.

The premier also called for stakeholders, including citizens, business community and provincial governments, to strengthen waste collection and expand recycling facilities as well as innovate in waste-to-energy and green entrepreneurship solutions.

"Every action counts. Let us work together to make zero waste a reality, ensuring a healthier planet for our future generations," he added. Enditem

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