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Islamabad, Pakistan COMSTECH – OIC Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation, in collaboration with SAWiE Ecosystems and CFEER, organised a one-day International Roundtable and Technical Dialogue titled “Unlocking Agricultural Carbon Markets: Climate-Smart Solutions for a Resilient Future” at the COMSTECH Secretariat, Islamabad.
The dialogue brought together researchers, agricultural and climate experts, government officials, academics, and representatives of national and international organisations to explore practical pathways for climate-smart agriculture, low-emission farming, food security, and access to agricultural carbon finance.
Addressing Climate Risks to Agriculture
Welcoming the participants, H.E. Prof. Dr. M. Iqbal Choudhary, Coordinator General OIC-COMSTECH, highlighted the growing impacts of climate change on agriculture, water resources, livelihoods, and food security across the OIC region. He emphasised the importance of stronger scientific cooperation, climate-resilient technologies, and practical solutions to address these challenges.
Dr. Khalid Mahmood, Co-Founder of SAWiE Ecosystems, highlighted the potential of climate-smart agriculture to reduce agricultural emissions while improving productivity and food security. He stressed the importance of connecting farmers with modern technologies, reliable climate information, financial resources, and emerging carbon-market opportunities.
Expert Perspectives and Knowledge Exchange
The event featured expert contributions on climate-smart agriculture, carbon markets, irrigation, and sustainable rice production.
Mr. Muhammad Arif Goheer, Executive Director of the Global Climate Change Impact Studies Centre, discussed the role of carbon markets in Pakistan’s climate and economic strategy.
Dr. Khalil Ahmed Ammar of the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA), UAE, shared insights on climate-smart irrigation for sustainable agriculture.
Dr. Fritz Boehmler, CEO of SAWiE Ecosystems, also addressed participants through a video message, highlighting the importance of innovative approaches for sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture.
Panel Discussions
A panel discussion on Nature-Based and Climate-Smart Solutions was moderated by Prof. Abdul Wakeel of the University of Agriculture Faisalabad and featured:
- Dr. Tassawar Hussain Malik
- Mr. Muhammad Kasim Manzoor
- Dr. Syed Mahmood Nasir
- Dr. Babar Bajwa
A second panel on Unlocking Agricultural Carbon Markets was moderated by Dr. Khalid Mahmood and included:
- Ms. Rubab Zahra
- Mr. Arif Alauddin
- Mr. Hammad Bashir
- Dr. Muhammad Abid
Dr. Ando Mariot Radanielson of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Philippines, also joined online to discuss sustainable rice production and opportunities associated with agricultural carbon markets.
Building a Roadmap for Climate-Resilient Agriculture
The dialogue concluded with breakout discussions focusing on soil, water, energy, and climate finance. Participants exchanged ideas and recommendations for developing a practical roadmap to:
- Promote climate-resilient agricultural practices
- Strengthen food and water security
- Reduce agricultural emissions
- Improve access to climate finance and carbon markets
- Connect farmers with sustainable technologies and emerging opportunities
The event reinforced the importance of collaboration among research institutions, policymakers, private-sector organisations, development partners, and farming communities to accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable, productive, and climate-resilient agricultural sector.
SAWiE Ecosystems remains committed to advancing climate-smart and regenerative agriculture through technology, innovation, scientific collaboration, and practical solutions that create value for farmers and the environment.
