For over two decades, this 43-acre landfill has been collecting waste—about 13 million tons of it! As a result, it has become a major source of pollution and methane gas, which contributes to drastic climate change. RUDA’s plan is to trap the emitting methane gas and turn it into energy. In the next 15 years, this project is estimated to cut carbon emissions by one million tons—that’s like taking 22,000 cars off the roads every year!
What is a Carbon Credit Project?
A carbon credit project is a way to reduce pollution and make money at the same time. Companies or governments pay for “carbon credits” to cancel out their own pollution. Each carbon credit represents one ton of carbon dioxide removed from the air. RUDA’s project is expected to generate 100,000 carbon credits every year, bringing in around Rs 2 billion in revenue. Resulting in less pollution and more money for green development.
Lets understand the Carbon Credit Project with a simple example:
Imagine a factory that produces a lot of pollution (carbon emissions). To balance this out, they pay for a “carbon credit,” which is like a permission slip allowing them to pollute a little—but only if they also support projects that reduce pollution elsewhere.
For example, if a company emits 1,000 tons of carbon dioxide, they can buy carbon credits from a project that plants trees or captures harmful gases from a landfill (like RUDA’s project). Since these projects help clean the air, the company’s pollution is “offset,” making the environment healthier.
It’s like if you spill water on the floor but then pay someone to mop it up—you’re fixing the problem in a different way!
How The World is Tackling Carbon Emissions With Carbon Credit Systems?
United States
The U.S. operates carbon credit programs like California’s Cap-and-Trade system, where companies trade emission allowances to stay within limits. Voluntary markets also let businesses offset carbon by funding projects like reforestation and clean energy.
Canada
Canada has carbon pricing and credit systems in provinces like British Columbia and Quebec. Businesses must pay for emissions, but they can earn or buy carbon credits by reducing their carbon footprint through sustainable practices.
India
India generates carbon credits through renewable energy and forest conservation. Large-scale solar and wind projects replace fossil fuels, while afforestation programs absorb CO₂. Industries also trade credits under global mechanisms like the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM).
Australia
Australia’s Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) system rewards industries and farmers for reducing emissions. Projects like reforestation, soil carbon improvement, and methane reduction earn tradable credits, with businesses using them to offset their carbon footprint.
Turning Mehmood Booti Dumpsite into Urban Forest & Solar park
RUDA is also planning to turn the Mehmood Booti dumpsite into a lush urban forest and a solar park. This will help improve Lahore’s air quality index, add more greenery, and promote clean energy use.
RUDA’s Director of Environment and Climate Change, Ahad Yousaf Khan, called this project a game-changer for Pakistan’s climate action.
This project is a big step toward a better, more sustainable Lahore. By cutting down emissions and creating eco-friendly spaces, RUDA is showing how urban development and environmental protection can go hand in hand.
Being the RUDA’s first and most credible international sales & marketing partner, Green Future Properties is committed to create awareness about the best Sustainable community development.