Safeguarding Urban Green Spaces: How Climate Change and Urbanization Impact Iraq’s Cities

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Iraqi government has reopened Zawraa Park, a key green space in Baghdad. This move comes as residents and environmental groups voice concerns about the city’s declining greenery, especially when compared to efforts in the Kurdistan Region.

Zawraa Park, one of Baghdad’s largest public parks, offers a much-needed escape from the city’s sweltering summer heat. However, many worry that future development could threaten its existence, with hints of possible residential projects looming over it.

A Dark Reality

Environmental groups reveal a concerning statistic: Baghdad’s greenness rate has dropped to just 4.5%. In contrast, the Kurdistan Region boasts a green cover of about 20%, thanks to the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) prioritizing urban forestry and green initiatives.

Local residents are skeptical of the government’s intentions. One resident shared, “This reopening lacks a real plan for improving greenery in Baghdad.” Many feel that decisions often favor certain political interests, making it harder to restore the city’s ecological balance.

The impact of climate change is evident. Iraq faces severe desertification, particularly in central and southern regions. Daily life there is marked by intense heat and struggling livelihoods, raising doubts about whether the government’s policies will bring about real change.

A Tale of Two Cities

The disconnect between government plans and reality is glaring. Even while the Council of Ministers prohibits destroying parks, ongoing development projects still threaten these green areas. An observer remarked, “Without government action, Baghdad could easily turn into a desert.”

In contrast, the Kurdistan Region is expanding its green spaces. The KRG has made strides, notably through a green belt project in Erbil that has successfully planted seven million olive and pistachio trees.

Future Implications

As Zawraa Park opens again, it serves as a litmus test. Will it genuinely contribute to preserving Baghdad’s greenery, or is it just a temporary solution amid ongoing urban challenges? For Baghdad’s residents, the outcome will influence their hopes for a greener and more sustainable city.

For more insights on urban forestry, you can read contrasting outcomes between Baghdad and Erbil’s approaches.

The question remains: can Baghdad reclaim its green spaces, or is it on a path toward desolation? The answer will shape the city’s future.



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Greenery, Zawraa Park