Reforesting an area the size of Pakistan will have massive benefits on the local environment
RAWALPINDI: Pakistan has encountered various different weather patterns as a result of climate change. In the past 20 years, flash floods, smog in winter, forest fires in summer have been increasing. Through floods in 2010-11, nearly 10% of Pakistan’s population was displaced. The costs of extreme weather as a consequence of climate change were listed at $384 million to the national economy.
Trees are considered as a safeguard to our clean environment. Humans are causing deforestation and toxic gases are increasing in our atmosphere. Reforesting an area the size of Pakistan will have massive benefits on the local environment and will store a huge amount of man-made carbon emissions. It is not, however, a substitute for reducing carbon emissions produced globally. Many countries in the world are trying to restore their forests. Similarly, we must follow these countries and grow trees as it is the duty of every individual to contribute to the solution. Solution to problems caused by climate change also needs international and regional cooperation. No country alone can solve these problems alone.
Muhammad Ahtesham Hameed
Published in The Express Tribune, December 2nd, 2019.
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