Islamabad: Pakistan marked the International Day of Forests, emphasizing the critical role of forests in supporting life and the economy. The President of Pakistan noted that forests are vital resources, offering food, firewood, and income to many households, particularly in rural areas.

According to Press Information Department, forests in Pakistan span approximately 4.1 million hectares, representing nearly 5 percent of the country’s land area. However, with an annual loss of around 11,000 hectares, the need for protection and expansion is pressing. The government, in collaboration with provincial authorities, is undertaking initiatives to increase forest cover and rehabilitate degraded land through the Green Pakistan Programme. This initiative has seen investments exceeding Rs. 125 billion and has facilitated the planting or distribution of over 2 billion trees.

The president’s message highlighted the multifaceted benefits of forests, which aid farmers, safeguard water sources, and bolster community resilience against climate change. Forest conservation is portrayed as both an environmental obligation and an economic necessity, with the added benefit of creating green jobs and supporting rural incomes. The message called for collective action from government departments, educators, youth, businesses, and local communities to ensure sustainable forest management. The participation of local communities and indigenous groups, known for their sustainable forest practices, is deemed essential for preserving these resources for the future.