On May 24, 2024, Forman Christian College (A Chartered University) hosted a seminar titled “Breaking Grounds on Sustainability: The Cement Industry’s Role in Decarbonization,” organized by the Earth Watch Club (EWC). The event aimed to raise awareness about the environmental impact of the cement industry and its role in mitigating climate change.
The seminar highlighted the significance of the cement industry, the third most-produced material globally, in the context of sustainability. As a major producer of carbon dioxide (CO2), the industry faces substantial challenges and opportunities in aligning with global climate goals.
Dr. Kauser Abdulla Malik, Director of ORIC at FCCU, commenced the seminar with introductory remarks. The keynote speaker, Dr. Arif Bashir, provided an insightful overview of the cement sector, discussing its economic contributions, industrial processes, and environmental challenges. He emphasized D.G. Khan Cement’s efforts in reducing carbon emissions and aligning with Pakistan’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, which aims for a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030.
Dr. Bashir also discussed technological advancements in sustainable production and the importance of collaboration between academia and industry. The seminar concluded with closing remarks from Dr. Derk Bakker, Chairperson of the Department of Environmental Sciences, who presented a shield of appreciation to Dr. Bashir for his valuable contribution.
