Karachi (HRNW)- Vice Chancellor of Dawood University of Engineering and Technology, Eng. Professor Dr. Samreen Hussain, has warned that with the rapid growth of digital innovation and modern technology, electronic waste (e-scrap) is emerging as a major global challenge that is currently being ignored. He said that in 2022, around 62 million tons of e-scrap were generated worldwide, amounting to 7.8 kilograms per capita annually, and this figure is expected to reach 82 million tons by 2030.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony of the first international conference on “Sustainable Green Energy, Environment and Digital Innovations” at the University of Karachi, Dr. Samreen emphasized that while the world talks about sustainability and environmental protection, the growing dangers of e-scrap are not receiving serious attention. He stressed the need for foresight, warning that failure to address this issue in time could seriously undermine sustainability efforts.
Dr. Samreen called upon engineers and academic institutions to focus on prevention strategies instead of merely fixing environmental damage. He urged universities, especially the University of Karachi, to take a leadership role in formulating practical recommendations and conveying them to policymakers, emphasizing the importance of trusting local experts and institutions for sustainable solutions.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Karachi, Professor Dr. Khalid Mahmood Iraqi, highlighted that environmental protection is the world’s biggest challenge and stressed the importance of effective policy implementation. He pointed out that Pakistan is facing serious issues such as water shortages and food insecurity, which require immediate attention through comprehensive and sustainable development strategies.
International expert Professor Dr. Iqbal Muhammad Mujtaba from the University of Bradford (UK) emphasized sustainable resource management, highlighting the alarming levels of water and food waste worldwide. He stressed the need for political dialogue among countries sharing river systems and the adoption of water-saving habits to combat resource scarcity.
Chairman of the Institution of Engineers Pakistan Karachi Center, Engineer Muhammad Farooq Arabi, and President of the Institution of Engineers Pakistan, Engineer Sohail Bashir, emphasized the importance of sustainable innovation, clean energy, and responsible technological development. They highlighted Pakistan’s vast renewable energy potential and the need for collaborative efforts to achieve sustainable transformation.
Dean Faculty of Sciences, University of Karachi, Professor Dr. Bilquis Gul, underlined the importance of interdisciplinary research and collaboration with policymakers and industry to develop environmentally responsible solutions. The conference also featured technical presentations by international and national experts, including Professor Dr. Attila Evgen from Türkiye and keynote speaker Syed Shujaat Rizvi.
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