The National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST) and the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) have signed an agreement on Friday to establish the Green Cycle NUST Pilot Composting Unit, marking a significant step towards sustainable campus operations, responsible resource use and circular economy practices.
The agreement was signed by Muhammad Ali Khan, Pro-Rector Planning and Resources, NUST and Ms. Saliha Tuna, Country Head TIKA Islamabad, at a ceremony attended by H.E. Dr. Irfan Neziroglu, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Pakistan, Rector NUST Dr. Muhammad Zahid Latif and senior representatives from both institutions.
The initiative will provide a practical mechanism for converting organic waste generated on campus into useful compost, while promoting resource recovery and sustainable waste management.
It will support organic waste segregation and collection from cafeterias, hostels, landscaping activities and other appropriate campus facilities, with the resulting compost available for campus landscaping, agricultural research and educational purposes.
Beyond its operational value, the Green Cycle initiative will also support academic research, student projects and practical training, providing opportunities for hands-on learning and environmental awareness.
Following the signing ceremony, the guests visited the composting plant and were briefed on the facility and the Green Cycle initiative. Speaking during the visit, Rector NUST Dr. Muhammad Zahid Latif said that the facility would serve as a “living lab” for the students, providing them with practical exposure to sustainable waste management. He further added that the initiative also reflected how two brotherly countries can work together to translate a shared commitment into practical solutions for a sustainable future.
Led by the NUST Office of Sustainability, the Green Cycle initiative reflects NUST’s commitment to advancing sustainable campus practices and responsible resource use, while transforming organic waste into a valuable resource.
The initiative aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
As the UNAI Global Hub Chair for SDG 12, NUST continues to promote responsible resource use, waste reduction and sustainable practices across its campus and academic ecosystem.
