Lahore: Unilever Pakistan and WWF-Pakistan have issued a call to action addressing the pressing issue of water security in the country. Through a collaborative initiative known as the Water Stewardship Programme, both organizations aim to implement practical solutions to improve water management in Punjab, emphasizing the necessity of national prioritization of sustainable water practices.
According to Unilever Pakistan Limited, the Water Stewardship Programme is designed to tackle water challenges on a broader scale beyond the confines of industrial operations. The initiative was highlighted at a media roundtable, where experts underscored the urgent need for sustainable practices to counteract declining groundwater levels and increasing climate pressures. The event gathered media representatives, environmental specialists, and industry leaders to discuss the socio-economic impacts of water scarcity and the importance of collective efforts in securing the country's water resources.
Sohail Ali Naqvi, Director of the Freshwater Programme at WWF-Pakistan, emphasized the significance of community and ecosystem-focused actions to restore water resources. Meanwhile, Ramlah Tariq, Unilever Pakistan’s Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Manager, reiterated the shared responsibility of all stakeholders in addressing water depletion, highlighting the partnership with WWF as a step toward meaningful interventions for groundwater replenishment and improved water management.
Participants were reminded of Pakistan's ongoing water scarcity, a status officially recognized since crossing the United Nations’ threshold in 2010. The Water Stewardship Programme is a component of Unilever Pakistan's wider sustainability strategy, which includes initiatives in plastic circularity, waste reduction, and climate action, aimed at fostering a sustainable and resilient future for the nation.