Research scholar from the Oxford University UK, David Johnson, while highlighting the impacts of human activity in the alpine areas, has stressed the need for ensuring the integrity of the eco-systems in the Shandur valley of Pakistan.
He was addressing a seminar on 'GCU-ECI Pakistan Field Research Programme' organised by the Department of Botany and Environmental Science of GC University Lahore on Thursday. He gave a presentation on the issue and highlighted the environmental impacts arising from the alpine tourism in the valley. He also threw light on the solid waste pollution of Shandur surface waters as a result of Shandur Polo Festival and summer villaging in the adjacent areas.
Vice-chancellor GC University Professor Dr Khalid Aftab appreciated David Johnson for his achievements and lauded the support of WWF Pakistan and ECI-Oxford University UK for carrying out this programme in a befitting manner.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairperson Botany and Environmental Science Department Dr Amin ul Haq said that this programme is designed to enable ECI students to undertake guided research to fulfil their degree requirement whilst addressing 'real life' environmental question in a developing country.