Pakistan’s Ten Billion Trees Tsunami Initiative

Like many countries worldwide, the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown have forced the people of Pakistan to stay at home, resulting in widespread risk of unemployment. Therefore, the government decided to take proactive measures by launching an initiative to hire individuals to assist in planting ten billion trees.

The Initiative Explained

Launched in 2018, the Ten Billion Trees Tsunami initiative aims to address climate change and its impacts. The objective is to plant ten billion trees over a five-year period across state-owned land. Consequently, approximately 30 million native saplings have already taken root throughout Pakistan.

Employment Opportunities

Amid the coronavirus pandemic, workers associated with the initiative have been permitted to continue with planting efforts—while adhering to mask-wearing and social distancing guidelines. Moreover, these ranks have been bolstered by daily wage workers who faced unemployment due to the lockdown, enabling them to support their families.

To date, more than 63,000 individuals have been employed under this initiative. Most operations occur around Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, and the adjacent region of Punjab, with workers usually engaged in projects when tree populations require maintenance and nurturing.

Stay Updated

The progress and developments of the Ten Billion Trees Tsunami initiative can be tracked through its official social media channels, particularly using the Twitter hashtag #Plant4Pakistan. This initiative not only contributes to a greener future but also plays a vital role in supporting livelihoods during challenging times.