Tree sales surge in Wasit as Iraq ramps up reforestation efforts

WASIT — Nurseries in Kut, the capital of Wasit province, have reported a significant increase in tree purchases, especially with the start of the fall planting season. This growing interest comes in response to the harsh summer seasons that have prompted many Iraqis to view tree planting as a necessity rather than a luxury.

The Iraqi Ministry of Agriculture announced that it has planted more than 6.4 million trees nationwide over the past 18 months, exceeding the initial target of five million trees set by Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al-Sudani. The tree-planting initiative, launched in March 2023 during the “Iraq for Climate” conference in Basra, is part of a wider effort to tackle the country’s climate challenges.

Agricultural engineer Ahmed Najm offered insights into the most recommended trees for planting. He stated that the Albizia tree is unmatched in its benefits but urged people to consult with specialists at nurseries to obtain essential materials that support tree growth.

Najm emphasized the importance of planting methods, “Buying and planting trees is not enough; residents must understand the type of soil and the organic materials needed, such as agricultural sulfur, humic substances, and others. These are important nutritional supplements for the life of the plant, and they must be provided to prevent it from dying quickly and to ensure that people do not lose confidence in the planting experience.”

The United Nations ranks Iraq as the fifth most vulnerable country to climate change impacts, which include severe risks from water scarcity, drought, extreme temperatures, and pollution.

Najm also advised citizens to prioritize planting evergreen species over seasonal ones, as they have a more noticeable environmental impact. He particularly recommended trees such as Albizia, Cordia myxa (locally known as “Bimber”), and Ziziphus (also called “Sidr”), noting their effectiveness when planted in median strips on roads.

Albizia is a fast-growing ornamental tree with feathery foliage and pink or white flowers, it is commonly planted for shade due to its broad, spreading crown. Bombax is a large deciduous tree known for its thick trunk and red flowers, it is valued for its environmental contributions and is often used in urban greening projects​. While Ziziphus is a hardy, drought-resistant tree prized for its edible fruit and medicinal properties.

For home gardens, Najm suggested planting ornamental indoor plants, which can improve air quality and contribute to mental well-being by enhancing mood.

Green spaces in Iraq have drastically diminished in recent years, driven by urban expansion, weak environmental policies, and the effects of climate change. In Baghdad, the proportion of green spaces has dropped from approximately 50% to just 17%, primarily due to unregulated real estate development, inadequate urban planning, and insufficient government initiatives to preserve or expand public parks.

Iraq’s Parliamentary Services Committee recently announced ongoing efforts to transform open land into public parks, with the goal of improving air quality and lowering temperatures across the country.

Despite efforts to expand Iraq’s green spaces, several challenges persist, including political instability, fragmented urban planning, and limited financial resources. Experts argue that Iraq needs a comprehensive environmental strategy that incorporates both short- and long-term planning, stronger policies to secure the necessary green initiatives.