Save the Children held Pakistan’s first-ever ‘Zero Waste Eco Festival’ in Islamabad to raise awareness among the event attendees about climate change and environment-related issues.
The event, held in the F-9 Park of Islamabad, created an immersive experience for children and the youth to participate in sustainable activities and practices to save nature.
Green start-ups, organic farmers attended the festival
Many stalls were set up at the festival where green companies and start-ups working on sustainable technology showcased sustainable products, designs, and ideas. Local organic farmers practicing eco-friendly techniques also participated in the festival. Several non-profit organizations working on climate issues also attended the festival.
Theme of the festival
Event Management Company Active Media organized the festival around the principles of “Reuse, reduce, recycle.” Innovative ideas and sustainable materials such as bamboo, UV printing and wooden carvings, were used to ensure the event was aligned with its theme. The event managers put a special emphasis on reducing plastic and other waste. No such waste was used while setting up the event as well as in the branding and marketing material. Paper waste was minimized by setting up a QR code-based ticketing system for the event. ‘Book it Now’ was the official ticketing partner for the event.
Recycling and upcycling event waste
Saaf Suthra Sheher was engaged in waste management of the festival, to ensure the waste generated during the event was effectively recycled, upcycled, or safely disposed of. The company also set up several recycling stations at the event. A group of trained youth volunteers guided the attendees on how to effectively dispose of their everyday trash. Critically, the festival can serve as a case study and road map for companies and organizations to reduce the environmental impact of large-scale events and festivals in Pakistan.
The event also featured a panel discussion on “Youth Engagement for a Sustainable and Climate Resilient Future” and a “Conversation with Young Climate Activists”.
Country Director of Save the Children in Pakistan Khuram Gondal said, “Although the climate crisis already affects everyone on this planet, the lives and futures of our children and youth will be most affected. That’s why it is so important that they are part of the solution.”
