From Waste to Impact: Founders Speak on Sustainability in Pakistan at CPI hosted Focused Group Discussion

On June 19, 2025, the Circular Plastic Institute (CPI) hosted a focused group discussion at KSBL, bringing together early-stage sustainability startups and ecosystem enablers for an open, honest exchange on what it takes to build and scale green ventures in Pakistan.

We heard from founders working on everything from waste-to-fertilizer innovation and bioenergy to eco-conscious education, precision agri-tech, and behavior-driven recycling models. Thematic discussions explored the realities of financing, policy hurdles, market access, and inclusion.

A big thank you to @Maira Siddiqui for her support in organizing the session, and to @Ramsha Rashid for delivering an excellent opening talk that grounded us in the current entrepreneurial landscape in Pakistan.

Some key insights that emerged:

•  Clearer, better-implemented regulation is urgently needed
•  Green startups need capital that goes beyond seed funding
•  Gender, geography, and informal networks must be part of the inclusion conversation
•  Practical, community-based solutions can drive scalable change

Grateful to everyone who joined and contributed. This is just the start — we look forward to continuing these conversations and building momentum toward a circular, sustainable future.