Pakistan faces severe air pollution, ranking as the third-most polluted country with PM2.5 levels far exceeding WHO guidelines. Urban centers like Lahore experience winter smog that raises PM2.5 concentrations beyond 145 μg/m³. This issue was central to the Climate Action Dialogue hosted by BYD Pakistan – Mega Motor Company (MMC) this week.
Research by the Pakistan Institute of Development Economics reveals that the transport sector accounts for over 43% of national emissions, with up to 80% in urban areas. Danish Khaliq, VP Sales & Strategy at BYD – MMC, emphasized that new energy vehicles (NEVs) significantly reduce emissions and could add approximately PKR 1.3 trillion to the economy, supporting up to 1.5 million jobs at just 30% adoption.
He noted that collaboration between global leaders and the government can accelerate this adoption. Participants discussed strengthening the National Electric Vehicle (NEV) Policy and ensuring incentives for cleaner vehicles to enhance sustainable transportation. BYD-MMC’s role is crucial in aligning local efforts with global initiatives to reduce the planet’s temperature.
The discussions aimed to develop a climate action plan focused on clean mobility solutions, highlighting the need for coordinated policy measures and collaboration among industry players to achieve a sustainable future.
