Mashreq Concludes Successful Climb2Change Expedition in Pakistan

KARACHI - In a remarkable achievement, Mashreq, a prominent financial institution in the MENA region, has successfully concluded its mountain clean-up expedition in Pakistan. This initiative is part of Mashreq’s global Climb2Change program, which aims to tackle the pressing issue of waste accumulation on some of the world’s highest peaks. The expedition not only highlights the bank's commitment to environmental sustainability but also serves as a call to action for individuals and organizations to join in the fight against climate change.

From June to August 2024, a dedicated team led by renowned climbers Maria Conceicao and Naila Kiani embarked on a rigorous 50-day journey. They focused on cleaning up 16 mountain sites, including the iconic K2 and Broad Peak base camps, as well as Goro2 and Concordia. The team successfully removed an impressive 1.727 tons (1,727 kilograms) of waste, which included various items ranging from plastics to metals, and even personal hygiene products and discarded clothing. This effort was conducted in strict compliance with the waste management regulations of Central Karakoram National Park and Pakistan.

A standout moment of the expedition was the clean-up at Camp 3 on K2, which is situated at an astonishing altitude of 23,800 feet above sea level. This achievement not only restored the natural beauty of these majestic mountains but also provided critical insights into the environmental challenges faced by high-altitude ecosystems.

The expedition also had a positive social impact, benefiting 47 local businesses and affecting over 100 individuals. This demonstrates Mashreq’s commitment to making a tangible difference in the communities it serves. Employees from Mashreq Pakistan contributed significantly, volunteering 180 hours to the clean-up efforts, showcasing the bank's dedication to fostering a sustainable corporate culture.

Muhammad Humayun Sajjad, CEO of Mashreq Pakistan, expressed pride in the expedition's success, stating, "The completion of the Climb2Change mountain clean-up expedition in Pakistan stands as a powerful testament to Mashreq’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, environmental conservation, and social impact." He emphasized the urgent need for climate action, citing alarming statistics that suggest climate-related events could shrink Pakistan’s GDP by 18-20% by 2050. He urged every Pakistani to prioritize climate action for a more resilient future.

Naila Kiani, a celebrated Pakistani mountaineer, shared her pride in participating in the mission, stating, "Climbing has always been about pushing my personal boundaries, but partnering with Mashreq for this initiative allowed me to transform that passion into a force for environmental conservation." Her sentiments reflect the broader goal of inspiring others to contribute positively to the planet.

Maria Conceicao, an international climber and philanthropist, echoed similar thoughts, highlighting the importance of teamwork in achieving environmental goals. She noted, "The Climb2Change mountain clean-up initiative represents not just a personal achievement but a symbol of a broader environmental mission that I am proud to have partaken in and championed."

The clean-up expeditions align with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Good Health and Well-being, Gender Equality, and Climate Action, among others. Mashreq’s efforts extend beyond Pakistan, with plans to reach other regions such as Egypt and China (Tibet) in the coming months, promoting recycling practices and environmental preservation on a global scale.

As the Pakistan mountain clean-up expedition concludes, it serves as a blueprint for how businesses can leverage their resources to address critical environmental challenges. Mashreq invites corporations and institutions worldwide to join this transformative movement. The success of this initiative not only highlights the importance of environmental stewardship but also encourages collective action towards a sustainable future. Together, we can all contribute to preserving the beauty of our planet for generations to come.