Karachi, The city of Karachi has taken a significant step towards sustainability and environmental responsibility with the inauguration of the PSO ECO Street project in Clifton, a pioneering initiative aimed at combating climate change and beautifying the urban landscape. The project, launched by Pakistan State Oil (PSO) at its head office, showcases a commitment to reducing plastic waste and enhancing the local environment through the innovative use of recycled materials in road construction.
According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, Mayor Karachi Barrister Murtaza Wahab, during the ceremony, emphasized the critical challenge of climate change facing Pakistan and the world. He highlighted the project’s role in environmental pollution control through urban afforestation and the development of eco-friendly infrastructure. The mayor praised PSO for its leadership in sustainability and its efforts to foster a greener urban landscape, underscoring the collective responsibility of corporate entities and the community in the city’s development.
The PSO ECO Street project involves the transformation of approximately 49,428 square feet of traditional road using 5,000 kg of recycled plastic waste, primarily from lubricant bottles and cans, collected from PSO’s Lubricant Manufacturing Terminal in Karachi. This initiative not only aims to reduce the plastic footprint but also to demonstrate the viability and benefits of incorporating plastic waste into road construction, thereby enhancing durability and setting a new standard for environmentally responsible construction practices.
Syed Muhammad Taha, MD and CEO of PSO, articulated the company’s dedication to environmental conservation and the pivotal role of innovative solutions in addressing ecological challenges. He stressed the importance of nurturing our surroundings and the project’s contribution to reducing plastic and carbon footprints, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and eco-friendly infrastructure.
The initiative also includes comprehensive beautification efforts in the surrounding area, with the reconstruction and renovation of road medians and walkways, now adorned with indigenous trees and plants to enrich local biodiversity. This effort aligns with Karachi Metropolitan Corporation’s broader strategies for afforestation, park improvement, and the development of a modern solid waste management system, contributing to a positive change within the city.
The inauguration of PSO ECO Street marks a collaborative achievement between PSO, local authorities, community members, and project partners, heralding a new era of environmental stewardship and sustainable development in Karachi.