
Several impactful environmental projects by Sitara Foundation have addressed critical issues across different regions of Pakistan. These initiatives reflect a commitment to environmental sustainability and community welfare in Pakistan’s diverse landscapes.

Installation of Two Water Filtration Plants in Sialkot, Pakistan
Environmentally destructive industrial operations have negatively impacted groundwater quality in Sialkot, Pakistan. Industrial pollutants have seeped into the local water aquifer and caused severe water contamination. Since the local population primarily uses the aquifer for potable water, poor water quality has been causing widespread health problems, especially for youth in the area. After learning about these issues, Sitara Foundation installed two water filtration plants in Sialkot for the purpose of making clean water accessible for the general population.
The photo shows children using the water filtration plant that was installed in Deenpura, Sialkot in December 2012. There was also a second filtration plant installed in Laudran, Sialkot in April 2013.

Development of Constructed Wetland & Sewage Lines in Majeed Keerio, Pakistan
Constructed Wetland is a natural, low-cost biological wastewater treatment technology designed to mimic processes found in natural wetland ecosystems. In December 2012, Sitara Foundation began funding the restoration efforts of the Sindhica Reform Society – which involves rebuilding the local ecosystem and constructing wetlands in Pakistan to treat sewage and wastewater. The project consists of restoring the structure of a constructed wetland and developing sewer lines to properly transport the wastewater through constructed wetlands.

Installation of a Water Pump & Water Tank in Sungar Abasi, Pakistan
In the remote areas of Sangar Abasi, access to drinking water is a major issue. In many locations, women and children have to walk 1-3 miles per day to fetch potable water. In some cases, children are unable to attend school because they are responsible for fetching drinking water for daily use. The purpose of this water pump and water tank was to make drinking water available in remote areas of Pakistan for the local population. On the left you can see a picture of the pump that was installed in the area. Sitara Foundation also funded the development of a water tank to store water drawn from this pump for the local population.

Promoting Sustainable Agriculture – Aquaponics
When individuals and communities grow their own food, they enjoy a number of advantages such as convenient access to affordable and organic food, development of agricultural knowledge and skills, and food security. Aquaponics is a combination of traditional aquaculture (growing fish in water) and hydroponics (growing plants in water). The combination exists in a symbiotic interconnected relationship where the microorganisms and plants remove toxins from the fish water, and the fish provide nutrients for the plants. The project can be deployed in many diverse climates and bioregions. In 2012, Sitara Foundation funded the development of an Aquaponics rig as a pilot project in Silver City, New Mexico. The project consists of converting 250 gallon water totes into a combined fish tank and vegetable grow bed. The purpose of this project is to determine the feasibility of duplicating this set up in Pakistan. The larger goal of this project is to promote sustainable development.
