Citizens, Stakeholders Unite at Trail 5 on “World Environment Day 2025”: A Call to Break the Plastic Habit and Embrace Environmental Responsibility

In a deeply reflective and action-driven event organized by Shehersaaz, UN-Habitat, CDA, IWMB, and engaged citizens came together on Margallah Hills, Trail 5 to advocate for climate-conscious living and sustainable practices, highlighting Pakistan’s urgent need to eliminate plastic from daily lives following the international theme on World Environment Day: Beat Plastic Pollution.

The day began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by a warm welcome from Executive Director of Shehersaaz, Ms. Almas Shakoor who emphasized on changing habits responsibly when it comes to dealing with environment and becoming more aware of taking care of it.

Delivering powerful remarks, Mr. Jawed Ali Khan, Country Program Manager at UN-Habitat, traced the transformation of Pakistani cities over the last two decades. He noted the alarming rise in urban populations and environmental degradation, especially under the weight of climate change. Stressing the pressing need for civic responsibility, Mr. Khan commended Shehersaaz for its steadfast commitment to environmental stewardship and assured continued institutional support in championing urban sustainability.

Gracing the occasion as Chief Guest, Chairman of the Capital Development Authority (CDA), Mr. Muhammad Ali Randhawa, urged citizens to adopt greener lifestyles by planting trees and abandoning single-use plastics. He emphasized a paradigm shift in public mindset, underlining that from July 1st, a tax penalty will be enforced on individuals found littering public spaces — a bold regulatory step toward cleaner cities.

Also addressing the gathering, Director General from the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Mr. Asif Sahibzada, echoed the urgency of combating plastic pollution. He emphasized the detrimental impact of unchecked waste and reinforced the importance of collective behavioral change.

Director of Solid Waste Management, Mr. Waqas Ali Khan, highlighted practical on-ground initiatives, including the distribution of biodegradable bags across Islamabad. These bags aim to support responsible disposal of animal waste during Eid-ul-Azha, preventing contamination of streets, water bodies, and dumping grounds.

Participants were then briefed on a "Hike & Trash Pick" activity, embodying the spirit of environmental action. Equipped with gloves and trash bags, the attendees embarked on a guided hike through the picturesque Trail 5 — each step echoing a message of responsibility and care. Plastic waste was collected along the trail, transforming a symbolic gesture into tangible impact.

The event concluded at the CDA office with closing reflections and a powerful group photo — a moment etched in time to reaffirm a shared promise: to protect the planet.

The day culminated in heartfelt conversations, refreshments, and renewed pledges. With the slogan "Break the Plastic Habit — There is No Planet B", the participants walked away not just inspired, but committed to becoming agents of change in their communities.

Simultaneously, impactful community-driven activities unfolded in Rawalpindi and Nowshera, where Shehersaaz ensured responsible activities involving citizens, youth, and local organizations who participated in awareness walks, environmental seminars, and street cleaning campaigns. These synchronized efforts reflected a growing nationwide momentum toward climate awareness and civic responsibility, further amplifying the message that protecting the environment is a shared duty—across cities, communities, and generations.

Media Coverage

Chairman CDA emphasizes cleanliness and tree plantation on World Environment Day 2025

Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA), Chief Commissioner Islamabad, and Director General Civil Defense, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, participated as the chief guest in a special ceremony organized in Islamabad to mark the World Environment Day 2025.

https://dailyspokesman.net/live/un-habitat-pakistan-and-cda-organize-plogging-and-eco-action-drive/

https://globalnewspakistan.com/2025/06/10/cda-launches-initiative-rewarding-students-who-plant-and-care-trees-randhawa/

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The ECO-Market (May 25)

Celebrating Sustainability and Style

The 3rd Shehersaaz Eco-Market was successfully held on 23rd & 24th May 2025 at Rawalpindi Gymkhana Club, bringing together over 30 stalls dedicated to promoting eco-friendly and sustainable living.

This market brought another addition of green and sustainable inventiveness — it was a celebration of conscious living. The vibrant energy, green aesthetics, and shared passion for the environment brought families, friends, students, and professionals together under one green cause. The two-day event offered not just eco-conscious shopping, but also a space for learning, interaction, and community building.

For the first time, three green-forward industries participated, showcasing services from solar panel technologies to PVC water management systems, adding great depth to the market’s environmental narrative.

Shehersaaz proudly presented its initiatives through uniquely crafted bamboo stalls, sustainably designed in-house by our brilliant “design and architecture team”. These stalls stood as a symbol of our commitment to responsible innovation and sustainable design.

We thank all our partners, stall holders, and visitors for making this event a grand success once again. Together, we continue to grow a movement toward greener, cleaner cities.


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Date: April 13, 2025

Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Venue: Islamabad Wildlife Management Board Office, Old Marghazar Zoo, Islamabad. 

 

Event Detail

Islamabad, April 13, 2025 — The lush green surroundings of Dino Park came alive with color, creativity, and conscious living as Shehersaaz hosted its second Eco-Market, bringing together a vibrant mix of sustainability, community engagement, and cultural celebration. Following the success of its first Eco-Market held in December 2024, this event marked yet another milestone in Shehersaaz’s journey towards promoting environment-friendly lifestyles.

With 27 uniquely curated stalls, the market showcased a range of eco-friendly products and ideas, from handmade jewelry, upcycled décor, sustainable packaging solutions, organic produce, to reusable cloth bags. The star of the show was undoubtedly the Ain-Amal stall, a hand-built bamboo structure that stood out not only for its craftsmanship but also for its message. It featured eco-conscious accessories and cloth bags designed and produced by Shehersaaz as part of their commitment to sustainable urban living.

The food court added another layer of charm, offering live cooking experiences that were a treat to all senses. From spicy desi dishes and savory Chinese delights to flavorful South Indian cuisine, there was something for every palate.

Adding an artistic touch, the bonsai workshop and art & craft corner allowed participants of all ages to engage in creative, hands-on experiences, emphasizing harmony with nature. Another new and refreshing addition was the soulful rabab music and live singing, echoing through the park and elevating the eco-vibe of the event.

A notable feature was Shehersaaz’s Emergency Response Stall, which showcased essential disaster preparedness equipment, raising awareness about urban resilience and climate adaptation.

Towards the end of the market each participant was awarded with certificate of participation that encouraged and appreciated them.

With happy faces, vibrant conversations, and an air filled with music and purpose, the Shehersaaz Eco-Market once again proved to be more than a marketplace—it was a celebration of sustainable living and community spirit.

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