Aga Khan University has launched a groundbreaking initiative to combat climate change and promote biodiversity by establishing its first microforest in Pakistan.
This project is part of the Aga Khan Foundation’s GROW program, which aims to create compact, diverse, and rapidly growing forests in urban and rural areas.
The microforest features over 25 native plant species, including fig, banana, and hibiscus, densely packed within a 100-square-meter area on the university campus.
The microforest not only enhances the campus’s aesthetic appeal but also serves as a carbon sink, supporting the university’s sustainability objectives.
The project was planted in collaboration with community volunteers and students, demonstrating AKU’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement.
By integrating this project into its broader climate resilience strategy, AKU aims to inspire similar initiatives across Pakistan.
The microforest will function as a living laboratory for environmental education and research, emphasizing the crucial role of biodiversity in maintaining ecosystem health and resilience.
This project is part of the Aga Khan Foundation’s global mission to establish nearly 400 microforests worldwide, promoting sustainable living and addressing climate change challenges. AKU’s microforest initiative is poised to set a precedent for other institutions and communities, encouraging them to adopt similar practices to enhance their local environments and contribute to a sustainable future.