ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is witnessing more frequent and intense heat waves, floods and droughts, seriously impacting people’s lives and posing threat to the country’s economy, ecosystems, and wildlife, said speakers at a plantation drive organised by the World Wide Fund for Nature-Pakistan (WWF-Pakistan).

The plantation drive was jointly in collaboration with Islamabad United and Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB). The event brought together cricket players, conservationists and government partners to emphasise the importance of collective environmental action.

Organisers said activities like these served as important reminders of the role nature could play in building resilience - and the collective responsibility everyone shared in protecting our environment.

“United for Nature”, the collaboration between WWF-Pakistan and Islamabad United, reflected a growing recognition that sports could be an important force for environmental change. By engaging popular public platforms like cricket, such partnerships were reaching broader and younger audience, inspiring new conversations and actions around sustainability.

Islamabad United team planted trees within the IWMB rescue centre’s premises, demonstrating their commitment to environmental conservation.

During their visit to the rehabilitation centre, they were briefed about rescued animals, including Asian black bears and common leopard.

Upon arrival, Omer Bilal, Assistant Director IWMB, welcomed the team and provided an overview of IWMB’s conservation efforts under the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination. He emphasised IWMB’s commitment to protecting wildlife rights and preventing cruelty.

Speaking on the occasion, Rab Nawaz, Senior Director Programmes WWF-Pakistan, said “Cricket is more than just a sport in Pakistan - it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings people together. By partnering with Islamabad United, we are fostering a deeper sense of environmental responsibility. Together, we are not just planting trees, we are planting ideas, building awareness and setting the tone for a future where caring for nature becomes second nature.”

Ali Naqvi, owner Leonine Global Sports, Islamabad United, said, “We’re grateful for the opportunity to be part of this initiative. Protecting environment is vital and we deeply appreciate all those who dedicate themselves to this cause,”

The speakers emphasised the urgent need to address climate change, highlighting the importance of plantation drives in mitigating its impacts, protecting wildlife and promoting livelihoods.

Islamabad United team comprised players Hunain Shah, Ben Dwarshuis, Riley Meredith, Saad Masood and Matt Short and their management.

Published in Dawn, April 16th, 2025