Pakistan Losing 11,000 Hectares of Forests Every Year

Pakistan continues to lose nearly 11,000 hectares of forests every year due to wildfires, climate change, and land conversion for agriculture, housing, and commercial projects, according to the World Wide Fund for Nature-Pakistan (WWF-P).

In a statement marking the International Day of Forests on March 21, WWF-P stressed the urgent need for forest conservation, highlighting its environmental, social, and economic importance. This year’s theme, “Forests and Food,” underscores the role forests play in food security, biodiversity, and livelihoods.

Pakistan remains a forest-poor country, with only five percent of its land covered by forests. Deforestation continues due to illegal logging, fuelwood harvesting, and expanding settlements. WWF-P noted that poor awareness and lack of regulation worsen the problem.

Hammad Naqi Khan, Director General of WWF-P, stressed that protecting forests can help combat climate change, prevent flooding, and support local communities. He called for better forest management, restoration efforts, and stricter law enforcement.

A 2024 WWF-P report also warned about widespread mangrove destruction along Karachi’s coastline for real estate and industrial projects, urging immediate action to prevent further loss.