RAWALPINDI: Pakistan is at risk of water scarcity and is among the 36 most water-stressed countries in the world. This is an alarming indicator of falling into the category of water-stressed countries with continuation of the trend ultimately leading to water scarcity. Pakistan is seventh in the list of ten countries which have been badly affected by the climate change. The remedy to mitigate the impact of climate change undoubtedly lies in planting more and more trees.
Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) President Malik Shahid Saleem in a statement said that about 6 to 10 degree centigrade temperature can be reduced in different parts of the country by planting trees following the international concept of urban forestry.
RCCI President said that traders are ready to join Government for its efforts to address the climate change through various steps including tree plantation, ban on plastic bags and use of renewable energy. RCCI through its industry-Academia linkage program will initiate awareness campaign and will organize seminars and workshop to make Pakistan greener, he further added.
RCCI has planted more than 60, 000 plants in Rawalpindi and in collaboration with PHA it is playing an active role in their monsoon tree plantation drive. RCCI had already shared its suggestions with climate ministry for better environment like inspection of commercial and private vehicles, identification of long survival trees along with area climate, ownership, curriculum, clean drinking water and rain water conservation, he informed.