Recycled plastic bricks, bottle-return machines and smart energy technologies were among the solutions showcased at Telenor Pakistan’s Sustainability Expo 2026 in Islamabad, an initiative aimed at encouraging more sustainable lifestyles amid rising climate concerns.
The event, held at the company’s headquarters, brought together employees, environmental innovators and solution providers to highlight practical ways individuals and organizations can reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to a more climate-resilient future.
The expo was inaugurated by Abrar Hussain, Director General of the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA), alongside Telenor Pakistan’s leadership team. During a tour of the exhibition floor, Hussain interacted with exhibitors and explored the range of technologies and ideas on display.
According to Telenor Pakistan, the Pak-EPA chief praised the scope and practicality of the initiatives and underscored the role private sector-led platforms can play in advancing Pakistan’s sustainability agenda. He also commended the company for encouraging people to rethink everyday habits and adopt more responsible ways of living.
Areej Khan, Chief People Officer at Telenor Pakistan, said, “At Telenor Pakistan, we believe that sustainability is not just a corporate commitment, it is a shared responsibility that begins with each one of us. The Sustainability Expo 2026 is our way of bringing that belief to life; creating a space where innovation meets inspiration, and where every interaction plants the seed of positive change. We are proud to stand alongside our employees, partners, and the wider community in driving a future that is digitally connected and environmentally conscious.”
Eco-friendly innovations on display
The exhibition featured a variety of solutions designed to reduce environmental impact. Among the highlights were construction bricks made from recycled plastic and reverse vending machines that reward users for returning plastic bottles.
Visitors also explored a range of environmentally friendly products aimed at minimizing waste and conserving natural resources, alongside Internet of Things (IoT)-based technologies designed for real-time energy optimization and conservation.
Interactive plantation activities and urban gardening demonstrations added a hands-on component to the event, allowing attendees to engage directly with sustainable practices and learn methods they could adopt in their homes and communities.
Broader environmental initiatives
The expo also reflected Telenor Pakistan’s broader environmental efforts. The telecom operator said it has participated in Pakistan’s first low-carbon Energy Storage as a Service (ESaaS) project, deploying 25 MWh of battery infrastructure aimed at eliminating more than 21 million liters of diesel consumption and reducing approximately 1.1 million generator run hours annually.
According to the company, its Environmental Management System is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13. Telenor Pakistan also said its sustainability initiatives have received international recognition from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), as it seeks to promote responsible business practices in the telecommunications sector and beyond.