Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei called on authorities on Tuesday to take effective measures toward preserving and expanding green spaces to improve the life of citizens, particularly in urban areas.
The Leader made the comments as he marked National Tree Planting Day and the beginning of Natural Resources Week by planting two saplings in the capital Tehran, his official website reported.
“In Tehran, there are gardens and green plots that some are seeking to encroach on, but the move should be prevented as it deals a blow to urban life,” Ayatollah Khamenei said, warning about loss of trees in cities.
He also called on concerned officials, including at the ministries of agriculture and energy to help reduce dust storms and flooding through planting trees and expanding green space.
Citizens’ Role
In addition, President Hassan Rouhani planted a sapling to commemorate the occasion, asking for people’s contribution to efforts toward saving the environment, IRNA reported.
“I encourage people from all walks of life and those who are active in the field of environment to contribute to tree planting and motivate others through various innovative ways to do same,” he said.
Desertification and deforestation are among the main culprits behind air pollution and dust storms, he said, adding that the government’s priority is to help save and make up for the damage done to forested areas.
