The Department of Environmental Science, BUITEMS, successfully conducted a training session on the “BUITEMS Pledge for Protecting the Environment” on August 22, 2025, in the Training Hall, Takatu Campus. The session was led by Prof. Dr. Anila Ali, Chairperson of the Department of Environmental Science, in association with Dr. Imrana Niaz Sultan, Assistant Professor,
Department of Biotechnology, and was attended by 40 participants from the Faculty of Life Sciences and Informatics (FLSI). Notably, all faculty teaching the course “Climate Change and Risk Management” participated, underscoring BUITEMS’ commitment to embedding sustainability across teaching, research, and personal practices.
A Visionary Initiative by the Vice Chancellor
The BUITEMS Pledge, conceived and initiated by the Worthy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Dr. Khalid Hafeez, is a visionary step aimed at promoting sustainable lifestyles, responsible resource use, and environmental stewardship. In his message, Dr. Hafeez emphasized:
“Use Less, Waste Less, Protect More.”
He reminded participants that while global policies and government actions are important, individual ownership and behavioral change are what drive long-term impact in combating climate change and environmental degradation.
Training Highlights
Participants were thoroughly briefed on the pledge’s purpose, vision, and thematic focus areas, which include:
• Water conservation
• Food waste reduction
• Sustainable energy practices
• Eco-friendly living
• Recycling and upcycling
Practical measures shared included turning off taps while brushing, reusing ablution water for gardening, taking shorter showers, cooking in controlled portions, switching to energy-efficient appliances, reducing single-use plastics, and adopting responsible waste management.
A major development announced was the integration of the BUITEMS Pledge into the Climate Change and Risk Management course, transforming the pledge from awareness into practical academic learning. This ensures that students not only study climate risks but also actively participate in mitigation and adaptation efforts.
Reinforcing Commitment
The pledge carries measurable commitments such as:
• Reducing one-third of personal and household resource consumption
• Planting trees and encouraging afforestation
• Practicing responsible recycling and waste reduction
• Inspiring peers and communities to adopt sustainable practices
At the end of the training, pledge certificates were distributed among participants, encouraging them to display them in offices or homes as a visible reminder of their responsibility and as inspiration for others to join the movement.
Conclusion
Participants expressed their appreciation for this meaningful initiative and pledged to adopt its principles in daily life. Faculty highlighted that such activities multiply their impact by inspiring students, amplifying BUITEMS’ role in promoting sustainability beyond campus.
The BUITEMS Pledge for Protecting the Environment is another milestone in the university’s journey toward environmental leadership. By integrating sustainability into academics and daily practices, BUITEMS is building a culture of responsibility that benefits both present and future generations—setting a model for institutions across Pakistan.