Deforestation worsens climate change dilemma

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan, one of the most affected countries by climate change, faces severe challenges due to escalating heatwaves and widespread deforestation.

Although numerous tree plantation campaigns are active across the country, these efforts are insufficient to address the scale of the crisis.

Planting tree is not just a strategy but a crucial tool in managing climate challenges, improving public health, and protecting agriculture and the environment. As highlighted by the Global Climate Risk Index, Pakistan's vulnerability to climate threats underscores the urgent need for intensified and consistent tree plantation initiatives.

According to the Global Forest Watch, Pakistan had 648,000 hectares of tree cover in 2010, accounting for 0.74 per cent of its land area. However, by 2023, the country lost 148 hectares of tree cover, releasing 60.2 kilotons of CO2.

Since 2001, Pakistan has lost 9,940 hectares of tree cover, representing a one per cent decrease since 2,000, and emitted 2.88 million tons of CO2 equivalent.

Deforestation, driven largely by human activities, has been a major issue, with 4.1 per cent of tree cover loss occurring in areas affected by such activities.

In 2024, Pakistan reported 1,534 high-confidence VIIRS fire alerts, a significant increase compared to previous years.