Minister Riaz Hussain Calls for Green Transition Rooted in Faith and Innovation

Islamabad: Federal Minister for Housing and Works, Mian Riaz Hussain, delivered a compelling keynote address at the Alternative Energy Conference organized by the Pakistan Alternative Energy Association, emphasizing the urgent need for Pakistan to embrace renewable energy and climate-resilient development. The conference, attended by energy experts, policymakers, and civil society leaders, served as a platform to bridge technology, sustainability, and ethical responsibility.

In his address, the minister applauded the organizers and participants for focusing on one of the most pressing issues of our time—energy sustainability and climate adaptation. He warned that unless Pakistan reduces its reliance on fossil fuels and invests in clean energy, the country’s developmental progress and the future of coming generations will remain under serious threat.

Highlighting Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change, he noted that the country ranks among the top ten most affected by climate-induced disasters, including floods, droughts, and extreme weather events. He stressed that renewable energy—such as solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and bioenergy—is critical for reducing emissions, enhancing energy security, and unlocking economic opportunities.

The minister shared impressive statistics, revealing that Pakistan possesses over 2.9 million megawatts of solar potential and approximately 50,000 megawatts of wind energy, particularly in Sindh and Balochistan. He reiterated the government’s commitment under the Alternative and Renewable Energy Policy 2019 to increase the share of clean energy in the national grid and promote green growth as part of a broader climate resilience strategy.

Calling for collaboration among all stakeholders—including the government, private sector, academia, and civil society—he emphasized the importance of dialogue, technology exchange, and policy reform to drive innovation in the energy sector. He lauded the conference for creating a platform that aligns with Pakistan’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

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Switching to Urdu mid-speech, the minister added a spiritual dimension to the conversation, drawing from Nahj al-Balagha, a collection of sermons by Imam Ali. He reflected on how ancient Islamic wisdom offers foresight into today’s environmental challenges—such as climate change, disease outbreaks, and social imbalance. He advocated for a return to sustainable, faith-rooted living, encouraging the use of natural materials, avoidance of harmful modern habits, and a deeper connection with ethical values.

Minister Riaz Hussain criticized the environmental and moral double standards of certain developed nations, stating that while they speak of human rights and ecological protection, they remain the largest contributors to pollution and global conflict. He urged Pakistanis to seek solutions that are spiritually grounded and scientifically informed.

Concluding his address, the minister called for research into the spiritual and moral dimensions of environmental stewardship within Islamic teachings. He reaffirmed the need for a national movement that blends technology, faith, and community action to ensure a sustainable and resilient future for Pakistan.

The conference concluded with a shared commitment among participants to accelerate the country’s green transition while honoring its cultural and religious heritage.