Experts warn of escalating climate crisis

Stress importance of plantation drives in protecting wildlife and promoting livelihoods

ISLAMABAD:

"Pakistan is witnessing more frequent and intense heatwaves, floods, and droughts, which impact people's lives and pose a serious threat to the country's economy, ecosystems, and wildlife", noted the speakers at a plantation drive jointly organised by the World Wide Fund for Nature-Pakistan (WWF-Pakistan), Islamabad United, and Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB).

The event brought together cricket players, conservationists and government partners to emphasise the importance of collective environmental action. "Activities like these serve as important reminders of the role nature can play in building resilience- and the collective responsibility we all share in protecting our environment."

"United for Nature", the collaboration between WWF-Pakistan and Islamabad United, reflects a growing recognition that sports can be an important force for environmental change. By engaging popular public platforms like cricket, such partnerships are reaching broader and younger audiences, inspiring new conversations and actions around sustainability. Islamabad United team planted trees within the IWMB center's premises, demonstrating their commitment to environmental conservation. During their visit to the rehabilitation center, they were briefed about rescued animals, including Asian Black Bears, Lion, and Common Leopard.

Upon arrival, Omer Bilal, Assistant Director IWMB, welcomed the team and provided an overview of IWMB's conservation efforts under the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination. He emphasized IWMB's commitment to protecting wildlife rights and preventing cruelty.

Speaking on the occasion, Rab Nawaz, Senior Director Programmes WWF-Pakistan, said "Cricket is more than just a sport in Pakistan- it's a cultural phenomenon that brings people together. By partnering with Islamabad United, we are fostering a deeper sense of environmental responsibility. Together, we are not just planting trees- were planting ideas, building awareness and setting the tone for a future where caring for nature becomes second nature".

"In a developing country, the work being done by wildlife rangers and organisations like WWF-Pakistan is not easy. Their efforts to protect endangered and vulnerable species like snow leopards and leopards are truly commendable. We're grateful for the opportunity to be part of this initiative. Protecting environment is vital, and we deeply appreciate all those who dedicate themselves to this cause, "remarked Ali Naqvi, Owner Leonine Global Sports, Islamabad United.

Speakers emphasised the urgent need to address climate change, highlighting the importance of plantation drives in mitigating its impacts, protecting wildlife, and promoting livelihoods. Islamabad United team, comprising players Hunain Shah, Ben Dwarshuis, Riley Meredith, Saad Masood, and Matt Short, accompanied by their management, paid a visit to the Margalla Rescue and Rehabilitation Center managed by IWMB.