‘Largest’ tree-planting ceremony held: ‘Greenhouse gas emissions to be effectively controlled’

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Climate Change Musadik Malik on Thursday stated that the greenhouse gas emissions will be effectively controlled through large scale plantation initiatives for improving environmental conditions.

He was addressing the largest tree planting ceremony held here on Thursday at the federal capital.

Speaking at the event, Musadik Malik emphasized the importance of sustained afforestation efforts, noting that trees play a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving environmental conditions. He highlighted that large scale plantation initiatives will continue with a strong focus not only on planting, but also on the protection and long term survival of trees. Appreciating Coca Cola’s contribution, he encouraged greater practical involvement from corporate organizations in advancing the shared vision of a climate resilient Pakistan.

Reinforcing its commitment to environmental stewardship, Coca-Cola Pakistan has contributed 5,000 indigenous trees to support the Upscaling Green Pakistan Programme of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environmental Coordination. The trees were planted at F-6/3 Park, Islamabad, as part of the Ministry’s efforts to enhance urban green cover, reduce emissions, and advance Pakistan’s broader climate priorities under the Government’s vision for climate resilience.

The plantation drive was marked by a tree planting ceremony attended by Federal Minister for Climate Change, Dr Musadik Malik, Sunay Sanl, General Manager, Coca-Cola Icecek (CCI), and Dr Faisal Hashmi, Senior Director, Coca-Cola Pakistan. The activity was carried out in collaboration with the Pakistan Environmental Protection Agency (Pak EPA) and the Capital Development Authority (CDA), with active participation from citizens, including youth volunteers.

Dr Faisal Hashmi, Senior Director, Coca-Cola Pakistan, said, “Afforestation initiatives like this demonstrate how collaborative efforts can make a meaningful impact on environmental sustainability. At Coca-Cola Pakistan, we remain committed to supporting practical, on ground actions that strengthen ecosystems and contribute to long term climate resilience in the communities where we operate.”

F-6/3 Park in Islamabad is also the site where Islamabad’s first plastic road was built under a partnership between CDA and Coca-Cola supported by National Incubation Center. Coca-Cola has since also installed benches and waste bins made from recycled plastic in parks across Islamabad and ran a public awareness drive on environmental stewardship.

This tree plantation initiative builds on Coca-Cola System’s broader environmental efforts in Pakistan, which include water stewardship, support for waste management systems, and contributions to tree plantation projects at key public infrastructure sites.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026