Iraq's environment faces crucial challenge
Environmental deterioration in Iraq has reached a critical point due to a lack of awareness among citizens, the destructive impact of consecutive wars and the absence of effective rehabilitation plans.
BAGHDAD — Iraq has been involved in many wars, but soon it will have to turn its attention to yet another front or risk being overwhelmed by an environmental crisis.
Two coinciding events recently highlighted the gravity of Iraq's ecological situation. On Aug. 7, Islamic State (IS) militants ran a pipe from the Kiyara refinery to the banks of the Tigris River. After pumping oil into the river, they set it on fire to destroy a military pontoon bridge Iraqi forces built recently as they prepared to reclaim Mosul.
On Aug. 6, Baghdad's city administration announced that the capital produces nearly 11,000 tons of waste every day. The administration said state corruption is hindering any progress toward a solution.
Many factors threaten Iraq's environment, from the irresponsible behavior of some Iraqis who are used to littering rivers and public squares, to the ammunition and equipment remnants from consecutive wars, to the use of radioactive substance in battles.
