President Zardari urges increased tree planting to combat climate change

President Asif Ali Zardari stated on Sunday that Pakistan is among the countries most affected by climate change and global warming.

Speaking at the annual monsoon tree-planting campaign at Bilawal House in Karachi, Zardari emphasised the need for increased national efforts to expand forest cover. August 18 is observed in Pakistan as the National Tree Planting Day during the monsoon season.

Zardari called on the public to actively participate in the monsoon tree-planting initiative, highlighting the importance of planting more trees to mitigate the negative effects of climate change and rising global temperatures. He specifically urged the youth and civil society to contribute to expanding the country’s green cover.

Reflecting on past initiatives, Zardari recalled that during his wife Benazir Bhutto’s first term as prime minister, he had overseen the launch of a tree-planting campaign, which included planting neem trees across the country. He stressed that, given the rising temperatures in Pakistan, there is an even greater need to plant trees today.

The president praised the successful restoration efforts of mangrove forests in Sindh, where millions of acres have been replanted. He reaffirmed the commitment to further expand mangroves and tree planting efforts.

Zardari highlighted the environmental benefits of neem trees, noting their ability to improve air quality, provide shade, and naturally repel mosquitoes. He encouraged all sectors of society to join the tree-planting campaign to reduce temperatures, enhance greenery, and increase forested areas.