Lahore: Nestlé Pakistan, in collaboration with the Government of Punjab, marked a significant milestone in Pakistan’s sustainability journey with the stone-laying ceremony of the Biomass Steam Plant at Sheikhupura. The ceremony was led by the Honorable Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz Sharif, as Chief Guest, along with Nestlé Pakistan’s leadership team, including CEO and Managing Director Jason Avanceña, Head of Corporate Affairs & Sustainability Sheikh Waqar Ahmad and Head of Technical Faisal Nadeem. The project reinforces Nestlé’s global ambition of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
With an investment of USD 4.5 million, the Biomass Steam Plant forms part of Nestlé Pakistan’s broader investments in renewable energy and sustainability initiatives. The project also builds on the company’s investment commitments announced at the World Economic Forum in Davos of PKR 17 billion (equivalent to USD 60 million) in Pakistan for the 2026–2028 period. Once operational, the project will generate 30 tons of steam per hour using agricultural waste, replacing conventional fossil fuel-based energy sources with a cleaner, renewable alternative.
Addressing the ceremony, CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif appreciated Nestlé Pakistan’s contribution to the country’s industrial and environmental sectors, saying the Biomass Steam Plant reflected Pakistan’s growing commitment to promoting the circular economy and renewable energy solutions. She said the project was fully aligned with the Punjab government’s priorities of environmental protection, cleaner air and sustainable industrial development, adding that such initiatives would play a vital role in addressing climate challenges and promoting responsible industrial practices.
Speaking on the occasion, Jason Avanceña, CEO & MD, Nestlé Pakistan, said, “The Biomass plant in Sheikhupura is an important step in our journey towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing cleaner manufacturing. By utilizing nearly 72,000 tons of agricultural residue annually, the Biomass Steam Plant is expected to reduce approximately 24,345 tons of CO₂ emissions every year, while supporting more sustainable agricultural practices and contributing to Punjab’s clean air priorities. The project is also expected to deliver estimated annual fuel cost savings of around USD 2.15 million”
Highlighting the broader impact of the project, Sheikh Waqar Ahmad, Head of Corporate Affairs & Sustainability, Nestlé Pakistan, said: “By reducing reliance on fossil fuel-based energy sources and promoting the productive use of agricultural residue, the Biomass Steam Plant supports Pakistan’s transition towards cleaner energy solutions. The project also highlights the growing role of public-private partnerships in strengthening industrial competitiveness and advancing environmental sustainability.” The initiative contributes to SDGs 7 on Clean and Affordable Energy and 13 on Climate Action, advancing lower-emission energy and more responsible resource use.
Nestlé Pakistan remains committed to advance sustainable manufacturing practices, create shared value for local communities and contribute towards Pakistan’s climate and renewable energy objectives.
For further information, please contact:
Minahil Shahzad
Corporate Communications Manager
[email protected]
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