Mausum Mahool Protection Foundation

Located in the historic Chakwal District of Punjab, Pakistan, Mausum Mahool Protection Foundation is a civil society organization that incorporates innovation to raise climate awareness, conserve wildlife, restore biodiversity, promote sustainable farming, and empower communities through education and regenerative agricultural practices. At the heart of this permaculture farmland in the Pothohar Plateau is Dastaan, site of community projects, educational and awareness outreach, film screenings, art, music programs, student tours, and networking opportunities with local-area farmers. Dastaan comes from the Urdu word for “story” or “tale.” This is the story of how shared purpose and a commitment to shaping a sustainable future for generations to come brought together a family, the local community, field experts, climate change educators, and others inspired by the ideal of fostering climate resilience to change the climate, not the planet. Within the unique sculpted landscape surrounding the organic farm, the team continually researches new ways to improve productivity while fostering biodiversity. During the past monsoon season over 700 trees, a majority of which are native and beneficial to local wildlife, were planted on the property. Birds, butterflies, ladybugs, and fireflies are commonplace. Bees and bee harvesting are more recent. Newly planted trees and flowers that are conducive to bee pollination are increasing honey yield. In this virtuous circle, the bees help pollinate the fruit trees, which improves fruit production. In the spirit of continued innovation, guests who seek to honor traditional gift-giving during their visit to Dastaan are asked to come only with a tree in hand … and be ready to plant it! This makes for a treasured memory and contributes to the greening of the permaculture farmland. Cover couplet (ghazal) in Urdu by Pakistani poet Ahmad Mushtaq: "Better to have woodland than a settlement. / At least one can breathe easy there."