Afghanistan’s pistachio forests declining due to war and poverty, warns FAO

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has warned that war, poverty, and deforestation have led to the severe destruction of Afghanistan’s pistachio forests, Afghan news agency Khaama Press reported.

In a statement, the FAO noted that the country once had over 450,000 hectares of pistachio forests, with the highest concentration in Badghis province. Overgrazing and tree-cutting for fuel have further worsened the situation, threatening both the environment and local livelihoods.

To combat deforestation, over one million pistachio saplings were planted between 2021 and 2023, and efforts are underway to restore grazing lands. However, ongoing economic struggles, job shortages, and restrictions on education—especially for women—have deepened the crisis.

The FAO emphasized the need for sustainable land management and cooperation between authorities and local communities to prevent further degradation.