Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced the launch of Pakistan’s first Environment Protection Agency (EPA)-certified “Liquid Tree,” an innovative bio-artificial system aimed at reducing pollution, carbon emissions and improving urban air quality.
According to the chief minister, the Liquid Tree is the first technology to receive certification from the Punjab EPA since its establishment in 1987. The system is designed using algae-based bioreactor technology that absorbs carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and releases oxygen, contributing to cleaner air in densely populated urban areas.
Officials said the project is the result of extensive scientific research involving the collection and testing of more than 100 species of microalgae from different regions of the country. Over a period of seven months, researchers assessed each species for carbon absorption capacity and environmental performance.
The most effective algae species was identified in Sukkur and later cultivated with the support of Government College University (GCU) Faisalabad for use in the system. The Liquid Tree also features an artificial intelligence-based monitoring mechanism that provides real-time data on carbon dioxide absorption and oxygen output, allowing continuous performance tracking.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif said the successful trial of the Liquid Tree marks a significant step in Punjab’s efforts to address smog, climate change and environmental degradation. She praised scientists, researchers, bioscientists and the Punjab Environment Protection Agency for their role in developing and testing the project.
In the first phase of implementation, Liquid Trees will be installed at major shopping malls in both indoor and outdoor spaces. The government plans to expand the initiative following its initial rollout.
Officials said the technology is intended to complement traditional tree plantation drives and provide an alternative solution for urban areas where large-scale afforestation is not feasible. The system is expected to support broader environmental efforts aimed at reducing emissions and improving air quality in cities.
The Punjab government said the initiative forms part of its wider environmental agenda, which includes anti-smog measures, afforestation campaigns and the introduction of innovative technologies to promote a cleaner and more climate-resilient province.
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