ISLAMABAD, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 2nd Aug, 2026) Sigma Award-winning Pakistani scientist Dr. Adeel Nazeer has called for greater investment in scientific research, innovation and clean technologies, saying these are essential for addressing Pakistan’s growing energy, environmental and climate challenges.
In an exclusive interview with APP, Dr. Nazeer said sustainable development could only be achieved through evidence-based policymaking, technological innovation and effective utilization of the country’s natural resources.
Discussing Pakistan’s natural gas reserves, he explained that many gas fields contain impurities such as carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen (N2) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which reduce the commercial value of natural gas.
“Before natural gas can be supplied for industrial, commercial or domestic use, these impurities must be removed through advanced gas processing technologies to obtain high-purity methane (CH4),” he said.
Dr. Nazeer noted that carbon dioxide cannot simply be released into the atmosphere because it contributes significantly to global warming and climate change. Around the world, technologies such as Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) are being adopted to safely store carbon emissions underground, while other gases can be processed or utilized through environmentally responsible industrial methods.
Speaking about climate change, he said Pakistan is among the countries most vulnerable to its impacts, including rising temperatures, prolonged heatwaves, floods, droughts and worsening air pollution.
He identified air pollution as the country’s most pressing environmental challenge, explaining that industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, fossil fuel consumption and other local sources all contribute to deteriorating air quality.
Dr. Nazeer further said that weather patterns and prevailing winds can at times transport polluted air across borders into Pakistan, particularly affecting parts of Punjab and contributing to smog episodes.
He stressed that Pakistan should also continue addressing its own domestic sources of pollution through stronger environmental regulations, cleaner industrial practices and wider adoption of renewable energy technologies.
“Air pollution is a regional challenge that requires regional cooperation, scientific collaboration and coordinated environmental policies,” he said.
Emphasizing the importance of environmental conservation, Dr. Nazeer called for large-scale afforestation, protection of natural ecosystems and promotion of indigenous vegetation suited to local climatic conditions. He said these measures, combined with clean energy and green technologies, would help reduce the long-term impacts of climate change.
He also stressed the need to strengthen collaboration between universities, research institutions, industry and government to develop practical, research-driven solutions to Pakistan’s energy and environmental challenges.
Speaking about his future goals, Dr. Nazeer said he remains committed to using his scientific knowledge and research for Pakistan’s development. He expressed hope that increased investment in modern laboratories, research funding and international scientific collaboration would enable Pakistani scientists to contribute more effectively to national progress.
Addressing young people, he urged them to become creators rather than merely consumers of technology.
“Our education system should promote critical thinking, scientific inquiry, innovation and creativity,” he said. “Pakistan’s youth possess enormous talent. With quality education, proper mentorship and research opportunities, they can play a transformative role in the country’s scientific and technological advancement.”
Dr. Nazeer emphasized that investing in science, technology and innovation today would not only strengthen Pakistan’s energy security and environmental resilience but also enhance its competitiveness in the global knowledge economy.
