'Biodiversity facing various threats in Pakistan'

Biodiversity is facing various threats in Pakistan like deforestation, pollution, population growth, over exploitation of natural resources, invasive alien species and environmental problems. This was stated by Vice Chancellor Quaid-i-Azam University, Professor Dr Masoom Yasinzai while addressing a ceremony organised to celebrate the "International Biodiversity Day" here on Thursday.
The Department of Plant Sciences Quaid-i-Azam University organised the ceremony aimed at increasing understanding and awareness of issues related to Biodiversity. An exhibition of posters and models was also organised by the students of Plant Sciences where they displayed their art work and scientific models.
Yasinzai said that there was a need to protect biodiversity for future generation in Pakistan by adopting the practical measures ie reforestation to control pollution, use of renewable energy, increase in the density of forests. Vice Chancellor also announced to establish a Botanical Garden and Department of Environ-mental Sciences at Quaid-i-Azam University.
Dean Faculty of Biological Science, Professor Dr Mir Ajab Khan highlighted the objectives of Biodiversity Day celebrations. He said Biodiversity and food security were inter-linked. "There is a dire need for research to understand the functions of fauna and flora in various ecosystems, particularly the agro-ecosystem and its conservation for future generations" he added.
Chairperson of the Department of Plant Sciences Professor Dr Asghari Bano said that Pakistan has rich Biodiversity of plants, animals and microbes. Biodiversity provides different services to the community of Pakistan especially 80% population in the rural areas in the form of food, medicines, energy, wood, fruits, vegetables, shelter and non timber forests products ie honey, gums, resins, spices, beverages, food items.
She said that the Department of Plant Sciences working on many projects including conservation of Biodiversity, Biodiversity of wild fruits and vegetables for food security as alternative food, Biodiversity of medicinal plants in salt range and moist temperate forests, Biodiversity of oil yielding plants for environment-friendly renewable energy.