Iraqi cabinet approves new plan to tackle air pollution

BAGHDAD — The Iraqi Council of Ministers has approved a set of 12 recommendations drafted by the Ministry of Environment on Monday that aim to combat air pollution across the country.

The measures include allocating a portion of the budget to bolster environmental inspection systems and aim to provide both immediate and long-term solutions to Iraq’s environmental challenges.

In recent months, Baghdad has experienced a significant increase in air pollution, marked by a pervasive sulfuric odor that has raised health concerns among locals.

The southern district of Dora has been particularly affected, with the fumes causing breathing difficulties and leading to nearly 200 hospitalizations.

In response, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has formed a ministerial committee to investigate the sources of pollution and develop mitigation strategies. The Ministry of Environment has advised residents to limit outdoor exposure during times when the odor is most intense and to keep windows closed to maintain indoor air quality.

On Oct. 18, the Ministry of Industry and Minerals announced that all brick factories in Baghdad and other governorates are required to transition from using heavy fuel oil to natural gas within the next 18 months.

The recommendations, as outlined in a statement issued by the Iraqi Council of Ministers:

Immediate Recommendations:

1. Enhance staff capacity and logistical infrastructure in environmental directorates, rehabilitate air quality monitoring stations in Baghdad and other provinces, and establish a national center to manage monitoring networks and emission sources with supporting portable devices.

2. Ensure funding for regulatory activities, establish sustainable financing mechanisms for the Ministry of Environment, and allocate a portion of the state budget to reinforce the environmental inspection system.

3. Require polluting activities to install effective emission control systems, meet environmental requirements, and comply with current legislation.

4. Coordinate between security and environmental agencies to develop a long-term plan to monitor and shut down non-compliant activities.

5. Utilize advanced technological solutions to improve fuel combustion efficiency in various activities.

6. Deploy security forces alongside technical teams to address irregular industrial activities contributing to air pollution and take legal action against violators.

Medium- and Long-Term Recommendations:

1. Develop an integrated national program to tackle air pollution, analyze data, review legislation, assess health impacts, and calculate damage costs in coordination with relevant entities to achieve sustainable goals.

2. Provide industrial and service activities with low-sulfur treated fuel to reduce emissions within acceptable limits.

3. Update environmental laws and regulations to mandate the adoption of modern technologies in industrial facilities and implement comprehensive national plans to combat air pollution.

4. Support scientific research to identify pollution sources, analyze their impacts, and develop solutions to manage emissions.

5. Promote afforestation, protect natural areas, and expand green spaces.

6. Implement sound waste management practices, establish regulated landfill sites, encourage recycling, and aim for zero waste. Introduce strict policies, alternative technologies, and public awareness campaigns on eco-friendly practices.