Once rich in forest resources, the country now struggles with one of the highest deforestation rates in Asia
Iqra Jokhio
Forests are often described as the lungs of the Earth, breathing life into the planet by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, regulating rainfall, and preserving biodiversity. However, in recent decades, deforestation has emerged as a major global threat, contributing massively to climate change. The rapid clearing of forests not only accelerates global warming but also leads to severe environmental imbalances. Among the nations facing serious consequences of deforestation, Pakistan stands out as a country where the issue has reached alarming levels.
The connection between deforestation and climate change is deeply rooted in science. Trees naturally absorb carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas, and store it within their trunks, branches, and roots. When forests are cleared or burned, the stored carbon is released into the atmosphere, increasing greenhouse gas levels and contributing to global warming. Deforestation disrupts rainfall patterns, increases the Earth’s surface temperature, and causes soil degradation, all of which amplify the devastating effects of climate change.
In Pakistan, the situation is particularly troubling. Once rich in forest resources, the country now struggles with one of the highest deforestation rates in Asia. According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, only 4.8% of Pakistan’s land area is covered by forests—far below the global average of 25%. Every year, about 27,000 hectares of forest are lost, largely due to human activities such as illegal logging, urban expansion, and agricultural encroachment. One of the biggest reasons behind this massive deforestation is the overwhelming reliance on wood as a primary energy source. Approximately 72% of the population, especially in rural areas, uses wood for cooking and heating. In addition to that, the construction industry, furniture manufacturing, and commercial usage consume over 50 million cubic feet of wood annually, and the demand continues to rise as the population grows.
The consequences of deforestation in Pakistan are already visible and devastating. Flash floods, soil erosion, and landslides have become more frequent due to the absence of tree roots that once held the soil together and absorbed excess rainwater. The catastrophic floods of 2010 and 2022, which displaced millions of people and caused billions in damages, were intensified by deforestation. Climate change, fueled by the loss of tree cover, is causing erratic weather patterns, prolonged droughts, unseasonal rains, and extreme heat waves. Pakistan now ranks among the top ten countries most vulnerable to climate change, according to the Global Climate Risk Index.
In addition to environmental destruction, deforestation has led to the loss of wildlife habitats. Pakistan is home to many endangered species, such as the snow leopard, markhor, and Indus River dolphin, all of which face increasing threats due to shrinking forests. Urban areas like Karachi and Lahore have also felt the heat as the disappearance of green belts has led to rising temperatures, worsening the urban heat island effect. Water shortages are becoming more severe, as forests play a crucial role in maintaining groundwater levels and ensuring steady river flows. The quality of air has also declined, with dust storms and air pollution causing respiratory problems and other health issues, particularly among children and the elderly.
In recent years, the government of Pakistan made some commendable announcements like ‘The Billion Tree Tsunami Project’ in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and the nationwide ‘Ten Billion Tree Tsunami Initiative’ but none of them implemented. In Sindh province also, the authorities claim planting millions of saplings every year, but with no results.
Read: Deforestation, poaching leave Pakistan’s wild parakeets on the brink
These efforts alone are not enough. There is a dire need for strict enforcement of environmental laws, sustainable forest management, and the promotion of alternative energy sources such as solar power, biogas, and wind energy. Raising awareness among the general public and involving local communities in conservation efforts is also essential for long-term success.
Deforestation is more than an environmental problem; it is a serious threat to our survival. The situation in Pakistan serves as a wake-up call for us to reflect on our actions and their consequences. We cannot afford to continue destroying forests without facing the repercussions. The Earth’s climate system is delicate, and every tree that falls pushes us closer to disaster. If we want a livable planet for ourselves and future generations, we must act now. Each one of us can contribute—by planting trees, reducing wood consumption, and supporting policies that protect our forests. Let us recognize that forests are not just natural resources but life-giving ecosystems that deserve our respect and protection. Together, we can still change the course of our future and restore the balance between nature and humanity.
Read: Sindh’s shrinking forests
____________
Iqra Jokhio is a 2nd year student at Mass Communication Department, University of Karachi
