Islamabad: Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Dr. Musadik Malik, took part in a plantation drive at Hill View Park, F-6/3, Islamabad, as part of the “Clean and Green Islamabad” initiative. The event, organized by Coca-Cola in collaboration with the Ministry of Climate Change, Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak-EPA), and the Capital Development Authority (CDA), aims to expand green spaces and enhance the urban environment in the capital.

According to Press Information Department, the drive is part of a broader afforestation campaign by the Ministry. A painting competition themed “Clean and Green Islamabad” was also held, with enthusiastic participation from students of various schools. The students later joined the plantation activity, where Dr. Malik planted a sapling and interacted with them. He emphasized the importance of nurturing children’s creativity and highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to planting trees as part of an effort to replace allergenic paper mulberry trees in the city.

Dr. Malik acknowledged Coca-Cola’s contribution of 5,000 trees, underscoring the collective responsibility for their care. He called for more corporate partnerships to address social and environmental issues. He also discussed the severe impacts of climate change in Pakistan, noting the recent floods that resulted in significant loss of life and displacement. The Minister stressed the importance of taking climate action to prevent further disasters, highlighting the role of trees in combating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen.

Senior Director of Coca-Cola, Dr. Faisal Hashmi, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainable public spaces and assured continued oversight of the planted saplings. The event was attended by senior officials, including the Secretary Ministry of Climate Change, Director General Pak-EPA, and Inspector General Forests.