Islamabad, In a significant move to combat environmental degradation and climate change, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced the government’s commencement of the next phase of the Green Pakistan Initiative. The ambitious program aims to expand forest cover, preserve wildlife habitats, and enhance carbon sequestration across the country.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Prime Minister Sharif’s announcement came during his message on the International Day of Forests, emphasizing the critical role of forests in maintaining the ecological balance and supporting livelihoods. He highlighted the alarming statistic that Pakistan’s forest cover stands at less than 5 percent, with approximately 1.5 percent being lost annually. This loss significantly affects the country’s biodiversity, environment, and agricultural sectors.

Prime Minister Sharif called on provincial governments, civil society organizations, and citizens to join the government’s efforts in fostering a Green Pakistan. He stressed the importance of collective action in preserving the nation’s forest ecosystems, which he described as the lifeline for the country’s environmental and economic health.

By addressing the urgent need for forest conservation, the Green Pakistan Initiative seeks to mitigate the impacts of climate change, which have become increasingly frequent and devastating in Pakistan. The Prime Minister urged the nation to work together in safeguarding this invaluable resource for future generations, emphasizing that the survival of the country depends on effective environmental stewardship.