Institute of Environmental Studies

The subject of environment is multidisciplinary in nature. The solution of environmental and related problems therefore requires the efforts of social scientists, health care personals. engineers. microbiologists. chemists. biologists and agriculturists. Medical profession although very much concerned with the health of the community also but it alone can not effectively solve environmental health problems. Civil engineers although taught about the public health engineering courses hut the lack the knowledge and expertise for solving the problems of environmental engineering involving the principles of biology, microbiology and chemistry etc.

The Institute was established in 1982. This is the oldest and pioneering Institute in the field of which is offering M.Phil and Ph.D degrees since then. Keeping in view the acute shortage of specialists it has started offering M.Sc. Postgraduate Diploma and Certificate courses since 1996. 1 he Institute provides excellent air-conditioned lecture hall, environmental laboratories, library and audiovisual facilities for the students. It is recognized as a technical Focal Point on Environmental Health Activities of WHO/EMRO and has been organizing WHO sponsored Workshops related to various environmental health and pollution problems with the collaboration of the Ministry of Health.

Therefore, there is a need to evolve and develop a course at the post-graduate level, which will involve the elements and fundamental principles of medicine, engineering and science for the solution of environmental problems and issues with a practical approach for solving such problems of developing countries. In other words the proposed M.Sc., degree in Environmental Science will bridge the gap that exists between courses in Community Medicine and Public Health and Environmental Engineering.

In order to control environmental pollution the Government of Pakistan has enacted Environmental Protection Act and has already implemented National Environmental Quality Standards (NEQS) with effect from 1st July. 1996. Karachi being the biggest industrial base with two major harbours has several thousand small and large industrial units is facing acute environmental degradation and deterioration problems. Although most of these industries have the desire to improve the quality of their effluent but due to paucity of expertise and professionals they cannot do much to improve the situation. For checking and implementation of NEQS nearly 3000 environmental managers will be required in 10 years time.

Apart from regular teaching programs the Institute has been regularly organizing short term training activities for in-service personnel and for those who are involved in research and development programs.

The Mission of the Institute is to produce highly skilled manpower who could handle contemporary issues related to environment and well being of mankind, disseminate, apply and use knowledge of environment and related fields to meet basic human needs improve environment quality and to meet Millennium Development Goals (MDG).