June 5 marked World Environment Day, Iraq held a series of activities under the global theme, ‘Our earth, our future’ as the country struggles with intensifying environmental challenges, including severe drought, land degradation, and the growing impact of climate change.
Recent environmental assessments indicate that Iraq is facing a critical crisis. With temperatures rising, rainfall decreasing, and water levels in the Tigris and Euphrates rivers declining, the nation is witnessing alarming rates of desertification, shrinking agricultural productivity, and increased displacement from affected areas. These factors threaten Iraq’s food and water security and place strain on public health and social stability.
To mark the occasion, the Ministry of Environment is leading a series of national initiatives aimed at promoting awareness, encouraging sustainable behaviours, and strengthening community participation in environmental protection efforts.
As part of these efforts, the Ministry’s Awareness and Media Department hosted an environmental awareness seminar in Baghdad, attended by experts, media representatives, and environmental stakeholders. The seminar emphasised the role of environmental education and public participation in tackling climate related threats.
Amir Ali Al-Hassan, Director General of the Awareness and Media Department, highlighted the environment as the foundation for sustainable life and called on all segments of society to contribute to environmental preservation by adopting sustainable habits and supporting biodiversity protection. He also stressed the importance of engaging young volunteers and civil society organisations to amplify environmental messages and broaden community impact.
Besides the seminar, the Awareness and Media Division launched a series of field campaigns across several districts of Baghdad. These on the ground activities aimed to promote environmental awareness among the general public, with a particular focus on school and university students. Volunteers distributed educational materials, organised interactive workshops, and led discussions on key issues such as plastic pollution, waste sorting, and the role of individual behaviour in conserving natural resources.
Tree planting initiatives were also carried out in educational institutions and public parks, with strong participation from youth volunteers and civil society groups demonstrating a spirit of community cooperation in environmental stewardship.
“World Environment Day serves as a vital annual platform to reinforce the values of sustainability,” said Al-Hassan. “But our message is clear: the responsibility does not end today. Real change begins with individual behaviour and must be sustained through year round awareness and collective action.”
To tackle these pressing environmental issues, Iraq can adopt a range of practical and long term solutions. These include enhancing water management through efficient irrigation systems and regional cooperation on water sharing, investing in renewable energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and expanding reforestation efforts to combat desertification. Additionally, improving waste management infrastructure, raising public awareness, and integrating environmental education into schools can foster a culture of sustainability. Strengthening the role of civil society and empowering youth led initiatives will also be essential in driving community based action.
As Iraq joins the global community in marking World Environment Day, this moment offers a chance not only to reflect on the scale of the challenges but to stimulate collective action towards protecting the country’s natural resources and ensuring a sustainable future.
Source: Ministry of Environment
- Published: 09 June, 2025
- Location: Baghdad
- Country: Iraq
- Editor: Nour Ghanem
- Category: Environment
