CDA, UN Explore Carbon Credit Opportunities and Environmental Cooperation for Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, on Friday held a meeting with United Nations Senior Coordination Officer for Climate and Environment and UNEP Focal Point, Alex Forbes, to discuss environmental protection initiatives and opportunities for acquiring carbon credits in the Federal Capital.
The meeting was attended by CDA Member Environment Esfandyar Baloch, Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon, Director General Resource, and other senior officers. Discussions focused on strengthening environmental safeguards, expanding green initiatives, and leveraging international carbon markets to support Islamabad’s sustainability goals.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa said that the Authority is implementing a comprehensive strategy for environmental protection and improvement of Islamabad. He emphasized that CDA aims to fully benefit from global frameworks and carbon markets to support its climate and sustainability initiatives.
He informed the meeting that CDA is currently working on multiple projects aimed at environmental conservation and carbon credit acquisition. These include plans to increase green cover by converting brown and underutilized areas into green spaces across the Federal Capital.
The Chairman further highlighted that CDA is advancing a modern solid waste management project, which could significantly contribute to carbon credit generation. He also noted the successful operation of 160 environmentally friendly electric feeder buses in Islamabad, adding that future expansion of electric tram systems and eco-friendly transport projects could further reduce emissions and support carbon credit initiatives.
Chairman CDA stated that the completion of ongoing development projects in Islamabad would not only enhance public convenience but also contribute to lower carbon emissions. He added that CDA is making efforts to establish modern, scientific landfill sites in line with international standards, aimed at minimizing environmental pollution.
United Nations Senior Coordination Officer for Climate and Environment, Alex Forbes, welcomed CDA’s initiatives and emphasized the importance of technical assistance and future cooperation. He stated that the UN would consider providing technical support to help CDA access carbon credits under international frameworks and green programs.
Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa reiterated that technical collaboration with the United Nations and other international development partners is essential to effectively address environmental challenges. He expressed confidence that strengthening CDA’s institutional capacity would ensure tangible progress in carbon credit acquisition and reaffirmed CDA’s commitment to benefiting from UNEP’s expertise, capacity-building support, and global experience, while further promoting mutual cooperation.