**Punjab Green Credit Program Advances Climate Initiatives, Explores Youth Engagement**
The Supervisory Committee of the Chief Minister Punjab Green Credit Program (CMPGCP) convened its eighth meeting, highlighting significant advancements in climate action and outlining new strategic initiatives to drive sustainability in the province. Key discussions centered on the program’s progress, the involvement of microfinance institutions for green credit provision, and expanded planning for climate awareness efforts across Punjab.
Chaired by Silwat Saeed, Secretary of the Environment Protection & Climate Change Department (EP&CCD), the committee reviewed updates on the development of an Emissions Trading System (ETS) for Punjab, as well as ongoing efforts with voluntary carbon credits and the implementation of Article 6 mechanisms under international climate frameworks. These initiatives aim to connect local climate action with global carbon market opportunities.
One of the meeting’s notable outcomes was the proposal to engage youth as “Climate Scouts” to raise climate awareness at the community level. The committee praised this innovative approach and emphasized the need to develop a comprehensive plan to harness the energy and creativity of the province’s youth for climate advocacy.
Further, the committee received progress reports on the inaugural Punjab Youth Climate Festival and the upcoming Cyclathon 2025, both of which are expected to amplify climate consciousness among the younger generation. The Chair directed that the hiring process for a consultancy firm to support carbon market projects be expedited to ensure effective implementation of the program’s objectives.
The CMPGCP continues to spearhead Punjab’s transition to a greener economy, aligning provincial initiatives with international climate strategies and emphasizing the importance of impactful, community-driven solutions. Key participants in the session included representatives from the PD SPIU (EP&CCD), Director General of the EPA, Additional Secretary Technical (EP&CCD), and Assistant Chief for Environment & Climate Change from the Planning & Development Board.
