Islamabad, On the occasion of the International Day of Forests 2024, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif delivered a poignant message underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to forest conservation and the pivotal role of technological innovations in combating environmental threats. This year’s theme, ‘Forests and Innovations: New solutions for a better world,’ emphasizes the integration of modern solutions to sustainably manage and protect forests against deforestation, habitat degradation, and climate change impacts.

According to Press Information Department, Pakistan, which has less than 5 percent of its total area under forest cover, is experiencing a yearly loss of about 1.5 percent of these forests. This loss has significant repercussions on the country’s biodiversity, environment, and agriculture, highlighting the urgency of forest conservation in mitigating climate change effects. As one of the countries most affected by climate change, with increasingly frequent and severe climate events, Pakistan views the preservation of its indigenous forests as crucial to its national survival.

Prime Minister Sharif announced the next phase of the ambitious Green Pakistan Initiative, initially launched in 2016 by the PMLN-led government, aimed at enhancing forest cover and biodiversity conservation. The renewed initiative focuses on improving forest cover, preserving wildlife habitats, and facilitating carbon sequestration.

Reiterating the government’s dedication to forest conservation, Prime Minister Sharif called upon provincial governments, civil society, and citizens to join the effort towards a greener Pakistan. He highlighted the importance of forests in maintaining the livelihood and environmental well-being of the nation and stressed the need for collective action to ensure the effective stewardship of this invaluable resource for future generations.

In his message, Prime Minister Sharif emphasized, “Today is about investing in our future,” urging the nation to unite in safeguarding forests and to plant for a prosperous tomorrow. His call to action reflects a firm commitment to environmental preservation and a sustainable future for Pakistan.