Environmental issues in Iraq are greatly attributed to the government, politics, and region. Iraq is the fifth most vulnerable country to the effects of climate change, [1] subject to oil spills, pollution, land degradation, and poor management of upstream water sources. [2]

Jul 11, 2023 · Extreme weather and drought are already displacing thousands. This report launches an open-ended Century International research initiative focused on climate change in the Middle East, by investigating the deep roots of Iraq’s unique vulnerability.

Apr 4, 2025 · Iraq has lost 45% of its date palms over the past two decades due to environmental degradation and pest infestations. The loss of tree cover has further accelerated soil erosion and desertification. According to the UN Environment Programme, Iraq has lost 60% of its fertile land in the past 40 years.

According to the United Nations, air pollution constitutes the single largest environmental risk to health in the world. Every year, about 6.5 million people die as a result of exposure to outdoor and indoor air pollution, and 9 out of every 10 people breathe outdoor air.

Mar 27, 2025 · Dealing with environmental degradation and the climate crisis in Iraq is a herculean task, but quite simply, Iraq cannot afford to sit idly by. The well-being and human rights of people in Iraq ...

Aug 11, 2022 · This report reviews the state of climate migration in Iraq, and considers how the Government of Iraq, international actors, and communities can mitigate, address, and prepare for its...

Dec 29, 2021 · Decades of war, poverty and fossil fuel extraction have devastated the country’s environment and its people. An Iraqi oil pipeline burns after sabotage by anti-U.S., pro-Saddam militants Sept. 8,...

Sep 19, 2024 · This document represents the national strategy for protecting and improving the environment in Iraq and the basic pillar through which the Ministry of Environment tackles environmental issues...

Nov 7, 2024 · The resultant Desk Study on the Environment in Iraq concluded that damage from the Iran-Iraq war during the 1980’s, the 1991 Gulf War, environmental mismanagement by the former Iraqi regime, the economic impact of sanctions and underlying environmental stresses have resulted in severe damage.

Sep 18, 2024 · Developed through comprehensive assessments of Iraq’s current environmental conditions, the strategy provides a roadmap to address pressing issues such as population growth, unsustainable resource use, and regional water management challenges.