At a panel discussion organised by the German Consulate in Karachi, industry experts emphasised on the need for Pakistan's textile sector to transition to renewable energy sources. The panel discussion was held in collaboration with the Goethe Institut and the German development agency GIZ with insights gleaned from Heimtextil, a prominent global trade fair for textiles held in Frankfurt, were shared.
With Pakistan ranking as the fourth largest exhibitor at Heimtextil 2024, boasting over 270 companies showcasing innovations to a global audience, the discourse centered on renewable energy and innovative technologies' pivotal role in reshaping the textile landscape. Constituting about 60 percent of Pakistan’s exports and employing millions, the textile industry faces the challenge of transitioning towards sustainability.
Zaki Bashir, CEO, Gul Ahmed Textile, emphasised on the urgency of adopting renewable energy, citing Pakistan's vulnerability to climate change. This will offer dual benefits of reducing carbon footprint while cutting down energy expenses, he added.
Echoeing the sentiment, Hassan Tabba, CEO, Yunus Textile Mills, underlined the necessity for Pakistan to leverage its renewable energy potential to remain competitive amidst countries like Bangladesh and India with more favorable energy tariffs.
Acknowledging Pakistan’s delay in embracing renewable energy, Fawad Anwar, CEO, Al Karam Textile, urged governmental support to facilitate industry investments in sustainable practices.
Yulia Bazhenova, Head-Projects, GIZ, emphasised on the crucial role of cost-cutting measures and energy efficiency in achieving sustainability, citing international standards necessitating environmental and social responsibility in Pakistan's textile sector.
Zulfiqar Shah, Country Manager, Pakistan Accord, emphasised on the importance of collaboration between the industry, government and civil society to devise policies promoting renewable energy and sustainable practices.
