Iraq’s Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi recently announced a new climate initiative aimed at combating the drastic impacts of climate change. The initiative will involve planting five million trees and palms across Iraq in an effort to mitigate the effects of climate change that have already displaced hundreds of thousands of Iraqis and negatively impacted seven million.
The effects of climate change have been devastating for Iraq with increased water salinity, respiratory illnesses caused by sandstorms, and destroyed crops and farms. The Prime Minister has recognized the urgency of the issue and is taking comprehensive measures to fight against it. The government’s national plan includes promoting clean and renewable energy, modernizing irrigation techniques, reducing carbon emissions, combating desertification, and protecting biodiversity.
To help combat climate change, the government plans to meet a third of the country’s electricity needs with renewable energy. The use of renewable energy is key in reducing carbon emissions which have been a major contributor to the climate crisis. Additionally, the national plan includes the creation of green belts to act as windbreaks against dust storms, and organizing a regional conference to promote cooperation on climate change.
One of the biggest challenges facing Iraq is water shortages. The construction of dams in neighboring countries has worsened the problem, increasing imports for basic staples like wheat and costing the country economically. The government is also addressing this issue and aims to reduce water shortages by modernizing irrigation techniques and promoting conservation.
Iraq’s comprehensive plan to combat climate change is an encouraging sign for the rest of the world. It is a reminder that countries must work together to address the global climate crisis. The government’s efforts to combat climate change will not only benefit the country but will also contribute to global efforts to reduce the harmful effects of climate change. The initiative is a step in the right direction towards a greener, more sustainable future.
