PAKISTAN, like many other countries, is grappling with the persistent issue of deforestation. The sight of wood-cutting yards in every city is a stark reminder of the unchecked exploitation of our natural resources. Despite the efforts of government bodies and various social organizations to promote tree plantation, the absence of robust law enforcement to protect existing trees poses a significant threat to the environment. The rampant use of wood for domestic purposes, brick kilns and factories exacerbates the problem, releasing harmful smoke that further pollutes the atmosphere.
Deforestation in Pakistan is driven by multiple factors. One of the primary reasons is the demand for timber and fuel-wood. Rural communities, in particular, rely heavily on wood as a primary source of energy for cooking and heating. Additionally, the brick kiln industry consumes vast quantities of wood to fire their kilns, contributing significantly to deforestation. Factories and construction activities also play a role, as wood is a crucial material in these sectors.
Despite numerous tree plantation drives and awareness campaigns, the deforestation rate remains alarmingly high. According to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Pakistan’s forest cover is less than 5% of its total land area, far below the recommended minimum of 25% for a balanced environment. This loss of forest cover has dire consequences, including soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, and increased carbon emissions.
The environmental impact of deforestation is profound. Trees play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They also act as natural air filters, trapping dust, pollutants, and harmful gases. When trees are cut down, these benefits are lost, leading to increased air pollution and contributing to climate change.
The smoke produced from burning wood for domestic use, brick kilns and factories releases large amounts of carbon dioxide and other pollutants into the atmosphere. This not only affects air quality but also contributes to the greenhouse effect, resulting in global warming. Moreover, the loss of trees exacerbates the effects of natural disasters such as floods and landslides, as the protective cover of vegetation is removed.
While various government initiatives and social organizations have taken steps to address deforestation, the lack of stringent law enforcement remains a significant challenge. The government has launched numerous afforestation programs, such as the “Billion Tree Tsunami” initiative in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which aimed to restore degraded lands and increase forest cover. However, these efforts are often undermined by illegal logging and the absence of effective monitoring and regulation.
Social organizations and NGOs have also played a crucial role in raising awareness about the importance of trees and the need for conservation. They organize tree plantation drives, educational campaigns, and community-based initiatives to promote sustainable practices. However, without the backing of strong legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms, these efforts alone are insufficient to combat the rampant deforestation.
Pakistan can draw valuable lessons from developed countries that have successfully managed their forest resources. Countries such as Norway, Finland and Japan have implemented stringent forest management policies and laws to protect their forests. For instance, Norway has one of the most comprehensive forest management systems in the world, with strict regulations on logging and reforestation. The country also promotes sustainable forestry practices and invests in research and development to ensure the long-term health of its forests.
In Finland, the government has established a robust legal framework to regulate forest use and ensure sustainable management. The Finnish Forest Act requires landowners to regenerate forests after logging, ensuring that the forest cover is maintained. Additionally, Finland invests in forest research and education, promoting innovative practices and technologies for sustainable forestry.
Japan, despite its high population density, has managed to maintain a significant forest cover through effective policies and community involvement. The country has implemented laws to regulate logging, promote reforestation, and protect biodiversity. Community-based forest management practices, known as “satoyama,” involve local communities in the conservation and sustainable use of forest resources.
The issue of deforestation in Pakistan requires urgent attention and action. While government initiatives and social organizations have made commendable efforts, the lack of robust law enforcement and sustainable practices continues to hinder progress. Learning from developed countries, Pakistan must implement stringent laws and regulations to protect its forests, promote sustainable forestry practices, and invest in research and education. Only through a comprehensive and collaborative approach can we ensure the preservation of our forests for future generations and mitigate the environmental impact of deforestation.
—The writer is former Regional Executive Inclusive Development at NBP, Mirpur AK.
