Islamabad, 21 April 2025 —The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), with support from the World Economic Forum (WEF), has launched the National Plastic Action Partnership (NPAP) Roadmap to accelerate action against plastic pollution and advance a transition toward a circular economy.

Developed in close collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination (MoCC&EC), the Roadmap outlines a national strategy to reduce plastic pollution by advancing sustainable, inclusive, and evidence-based solutions that prioritize both environmental protection and the needs of vulnerable communities.

With plastic use increasing by 15 percent annually—largely driven by single-use products—and plastic making up nearly 40 percent of solid waste in the Indus River, the country faces mounting environmental and public health challenges.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Zulfiqar Younas, Additional Secretary at MOCC&EC, noted that the NPAP offers a much-needed structure for aligning existing policies with actionable solutions. “The Roadmap is not just a plan—it is a call to action. The NPAP offers a structured starting point for improving how we manage plastic waste in Pakistan. While the challenge is pressing, it helps align our existing policies and sets the direction for more informed, practical action moving forward. It will take time, but this is a step in the right direction.”

Pakistan was the first country in South Asia to join the Global Plastic Action Partnership. The NPAP Roadmap marks a milestone in this commitment, presenting concrete measures to improve waste collection systems, expand circular plastic solutions, and raise public awareness. Key measures include launching a Plastic Circularity Network, supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, strengthening waste collection and recycling systems, and rolling out public education campaigns and financial incentives.

In his video address, Dr. Samuel Rizk, UNDP Pakistan Resident Representative, emphasized the importance of people-centred approaches. “Lasting impact demands that we place people at the centre. While technology and infrastructure are essential, they must be complemented by social inclusion and behaviour change. By working with young people, women entrepreneurs, and local communities through this Roadmap, we can drive a green transition that is both inclusive and equitable.”

The launch event brought together representatives from government, the private sector, civil society, academia, international organizations, and UN agencies. A panel discussion featuring experts from Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), Sustainable Development Policy Institute, World Wildlife Fund and United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) explored challenges and solutions related to plastic waste, calling for stronger collaboration and more integrated systems.

In her video message, Ms. Clemend Schmid, Director of the Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP), welcomed Pakistan’s leadership and reaffirmed GPAP’s support for the Roadmap’s implementation. “Today’s event is more than a launch. It is a reaffirmation of our shared commitment to a cleaner, more sustainable, and inclusive future for Pakistan.”

Building on UNDP’s ongoing work in climate resilience, waste management, and green economy initiatives—including support to recovery efforts after the 2022 floods— the NPAP Roadmap reinforces Pakistan’s commitment to environmental sustainability and paves the way for long-term systemic change.
                                                           

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For additional information, contact Fizza Bangash, Head of Communications Unit, UNDP Pakistan at fizza.bangash@undp.org

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