Earth Day marked with renewed call for environmental protection

World Earth Day was observed on Wednesday with a renewed call for environmental protection and sustainable use of natural resources, as officials highlighted growing global challenges such as pollution, deforestation and climate change

RAWALPINDI, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 22nd Apr, 2026) World Earth Day was observed on Wednesday with a renewed call for environmental protection and sustainable use of natural resources, as officials highlighted growing global challenges such as pollution, deforestation and climate change.

In a message to mark the day, Managing Director of the Horticulture Agency Rawalpindi, Ahmed Hassan Ranjha, said the occasion offered an opportunity to reaffirm a commitment to making the earth “green, clean and safe”.

First marked in 1970, the annual event on April 22 aims to raise awareness about environmental issues and encourage collective action to safeguard the planet.

He said the planet was a shared trust and its protection a collective responsibility. Climate change, environmental pollution, and indiscriminate tree-cutting had become serious threats requiring coordinated efforts, he added.

Ranjha said the Horticulture Agency was undertaking measures to improve the urban environment, including tree plantation drives, restoration of green belts, enhancement of parks and public awareness campaigns.

He urged citizens to contribute by planting trees, conserving water and electricity, reducing plastic use and maintaining cleanliness in their surroundings.

“The earth is our only home. If we fail to take care of it, our future may be at risk,” he said, calling for a pledge to leave a clean and healthy environment for future generations. He added that the agency would continue its efforts to make Rawalpindi a greener, more environmentally friendly city.