Massive Mangrove Plantation Drive – WWF-Pakistan and Careem Initiative
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WWF-Pakistan and Careem Initiate Massive Mangrove Plantation Drive
As part of the Rung Do Pakistan campaign, WWF-Pakistan and Careem launched a massive mangrove plantation drive at Sandspit, recently.
Under this initiative, 180,000 saplings will be planted in the coastal belt of Pakistan.
This initiative will not only help restore the lost mangrove forest cover but will also build the resilience of the local communities to tackle climate change and other natural disasters particularly soil erosion and coastal flooding in the area.
This campaign aims to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change, regulate water cycles and increase green cover across the country. During the event, a total of 300 saplings were planted to mark the launch of the initiative.
Rung Do Pakistan campaign
Rung Do Pakistan campaign is the joint initiative of WWF-Pakistan, Careem, and other partners who pledge to plant a total of 1.4 million trees across the country by August 2019 through the active participation of different stakeholders, local communities and passionate individuals.
Careem has contributed in Rung Do Pakistan campaign by raising funds through Rung Do Pakistan Car Type in its App. Passionate citizens contributed very generously for the cause.
According To Careem:
1 Ride = 1 Tree Planted
With an annual deforestation rate of 1.63% a year, we owe it to our country to give back what we’ve taken, especially on an occasion such as this.
We have partnered with WWF-Pakistan to bring you “Rung Do Pakistan” car type, an initiative to turn Pakistan green, permanently.
All you have to do is take a #RungDoPakistan ride, and Rs. 20 will be added to each ride, which will go towards planting a tree 
Chalo, let’s #MakePakistanGreenAgain 
T&Cs
– GO fare rates apply on Rung Do Pakistan car type
– Additional Rs. 20 will be charged on the ride for tree plantation by WWF
– Valid 14th Aug onwards
Status of Mangrove Forests of Pakistan
Dr. Babar Khan, Regional Head Sindh and Balochistan WWF-Pakistan said that Pakistan is recognized to have the 7th largest mangrove forests in the world. These are one of the primary features of coastal ecosystems and are widely spread across the coast of Pakistan.
The majority of mangroves forests are found in the Indus Delta, a region categorized as one of the most productive Global 200 Ecoregions of the world.
“The annual deforestation rate of Pakistan is 1.63%. We owe it to our country to give back what we’ve taken. Careem aspires to help the community achieve self-sustenance and growth and plantation takes us one step closer to our goal. Careem cares about the environment and looks to partner with organizations across the country to help spread awareness and make whatever difference it can for its community”, said Junaid Iqbal, Managing Director, Careem Pakistan.
Importance of Mangrove Forests of Pakistan
Dr. Babar Khan shared that mangroves are the first line of defense against cyclones, strong surges, tsunami and other natural calamities impacting the coastal areas of Pakistan.
They are critically important because of their role in climate change mitigation and adaptation, community livelihoods, and food security. ‘We consider them as jewels of the coastline as they enhance its aesthetic value and appeal to a diverse species of birds’, he added.
Around 0.2 million people directly rely on the services provided by mangrove forests in Pakistan.
The mangrove ecosystem is very productive and provides shelter and nursing ground for different fish species as well as other fauna of the area.
Threats to Mangrove Forests of Pakistan
Presently, mangroves face multiple threats such as environmental degradation, ruthless cutting, and dumping of sewage wastewater.
The reduced freshwater flow in the Indus delta and other mangrove forest areas is leading to declining in productivity and nourishment of their habitats leading to the death of the plants. Therefore, to address these issues, the WWF-Pakistan in collaboration with other partners has initiated awareness raising campaign on the importance and conservation of mangrove forests by involving government agencies, corporates, local fisher communities, and media.
Courtesy:
Careem
The News
The Twin Post
WWF-Pakistan
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