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Sustainable Practices-Resilient Future of Food and Agriculture Sector in Pakistan

The food and agriculture sector is significant contributor to Pakistan’s economy, accounting for over 20% of the country’s GDP. Agro based trade shares 18.1% exports of the country. There has been a growing recognition of the need to adopt sustainable practices in the food and agriculture sector. Such practices will improve food security, better the ecosystem and can meet the challenges of climate change.

Sustainable Agricultural Practices

  • Precision farming, powered by technology, is transforming Pakistan’s agriculture. By using satellite imagery and sensors, farmers can optimize resource use, minimize environmental impact, and boost yields, leading to a more sustainable and productive agricultural future.
  • Organic farming is on the rise in Pakistan, driven by a growing demand for healthier food and a desire for sustainable practices. By minimum chemical use, organic farming improves soil health and biodiversity.  
  • Pakistan’s agriculture sector is facing water scarcity, but innovative solutions like precision irrigation and rainwater harvesting are helping to conserve water and ensure sustainable crop production.  
  • Digital agriculture platforms are empowering farmers with real-time information, enabling them to make informed decisions and improve productivity, contributing to sustainable agricultural development.  
  • Biotechnology is playing a crucial role in developing climate-resilient crop varieties, enhancing food security and promoting sustainable agriculture

Sustainable Practices by FMGCs

Nestlé Pakistan is working towards regenerative agriculture. The company is actively reducing water usage, improving water management practices, and promoting efficient water usage among farmers. To maintain soil health, Nestlé Pakistan focuses on sustainable farming practices like crop rotation, organic fertilizers, and reduced pesticide use. The company also help farmers to adapt such practices  that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. To empower farmers, Nestlé Pakistan provides training and development programs, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to adopt sustainable practices. The company also prioritizes responsible sourcing, ensuring that raw materials are produced sustainably and ethically. By improving traceability in the supply chain, Nestlé Pakistan enhances transparency and accountability. Furthermore, the company supports local communities by sourcing raw materials from local farmers and promoting sustainable livelihoods. To minimize its environmental impact, Nestlé Pakistan is committed to reducing its carbon footprint through energy-efficient technologies and waste reduction. The company is also working towards using more sustainable packaging materials and reducing packaging waste. By promoting recycling and waste reduction initiatives, Nestlé Pakistan aims to minimize its environmental impact.

Engro Pakistan is committed to promote sustainable practices in the food and agriculture sector. Engro Fertilizers focuses on developing sustainable fertilizer solutions, emphasizing soil health management, and promoting efficient irrigation techniques.  The company also conducts extensive farmer education and training programs.  Engro Foods works with dairy farmers to implement sustainable dairy farming practices, prioritizing food safety and quality standards, and reducing food waste throughout its supply chain.

Tetra Pak, a leading global food packaging company utilize its recyclable materials like paperboard, polyethylene, and aluminum, while continually striving to reduce their packaging’s environmental impact. According to Tetra Pak Sustainability Report FY23*, collection of carton packages increased globally by 7% in 2023 amounting to approximately 1.3 million tonnes of carton packages collected and sent for recycling. By preserving food and minimizing waste, Tetra Pak ensures food safety and quality. They source raw materials responsibly, supporting sustainable agriculture and reducing harmful chemical use. To promote a circular economy, Tetra Pak encourages recycling and recovery, investing in innovative technologies to improve recycling rates.

Packages Pakistan endorses sustainable practices in the food and agriculture sector. They prioritize recyclable and reusable packaging solutions, reduce plastic usage, and optimize packaging designs to minimize material consumption and carbon emissions. The company collaborates with farmers to implement sustainable farming methods like crop rotation, water conservation, and reduced pesticide use. Additionally, they conduct training programs to educate stakeholders about sustainable agriculture. To further their commitment to sustainability, Packages Pakistan implements energy-efficient technologies, conserves water, and minimizes waste through recycling and composting.

Government Programs for Sustainable food and agriculture Sector

Prime Minister Agriculture Emergency Program
Government of Pakistan has initiated Prime Minister Agriculture Emergency Program for enhancing productivity and profitability through increase in yield up to 7 mounds / acre to reduce cost of production. In this project, subsidy will be provided to farmers up to 2023-24 , on 216,457 ton certified wheat seed, 259,832 ton of gypsum, 99,900 hectare of jantar sowing and incorporation in soil, 15,435 agriculture implements / machinery and weedicides for 4,793,400 hectare to enhance productivity of wheat.

Kisaan Program
Through  Kisaan Program, direct financial assistance is given to small and marginalized farmers. Through this initiative vulnerable farming households are empowered. This leads them to invest in sustainable agricultural practices and improve their production.

Green Pakistan
The Green Pakistan was launched in 2023. The initiative’s primary goal is to transform barren land into fertile fields, creating job opportunities, and promoting sustainable farming methods. In its first year, 40 solar tube wells were installed resulting in irrigation of 800 hectares of land in Balochistan. Through this intervention, cultivation of crops like wheat and watermelon were successful. In the second phase with 83 additional solar tube wells installed, supporting 1,660 hectares of land.

All these sustainable practices, innovating farming methods and government’s interventions are made possible by continuous efforts of Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP).  TDAP is at the forefront in promoting sustainable practices in Pakistan in food and agriculture sector by organizing awareness campaigns, seminars, exhibitions, and B2B meetings among businesses in the food and agriculture sector. TDAP is also facilitating in access to international markets for Pakistani businesses that has adopted sustainable practices. TDAP is also collaborating with international organizations to promote sustainable agriculture practices in Pakistan.  By supporting Pakistani businesses in their transition to sustainable practices, TDAP is not only contributing to a cleaner environment but also helping to enhance the competitiveness of Pakistani businesses in the global market by creating strong market linkages for sustainable products.

TDAP plays a pivotal role in providing a platform to exchange ideas, showcase innovations, and build partnerships that will drive Pakistan towards a more sustainable and resilient  future for all. Such practices will surely lead towards a hunger-free Pakistan.