A 3 days Environmental Monitoring Training, organized by The Waterkeepers Iraq and Kurdistan Organization, was held at the Mihrako Hotel in Sulaimani on Thursday.
The training aims to raise awareness, share environmental information, and equip participants to become environmental monitors and advocates. Initially, the training agenda was presented, followed by a discussion on the history, establishment, activities, and projects of the Waterkeepers of Iraq and Kurdistan. Climate change was also among the various topics discussed.
Sida funds this training - Sida - Styrelsen för Internationellt Utvecklingssamarbete (The Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency) in partnership with NPA Iraq (Norwegian People's Aid), with Waterkeepers Iraq (WKI) as the cooperating partner.

We had a great meeting with U.S. Consulate General Erbil: Neil Gundavda, Econ Unit Chief, Ibrahim Ibrahim, Economic Assistant, Dara Saeed Commercial Assistant, and Zuleikha Kareem Cultural Advisor at our office at Culture Factory.
Nabil Ibrahim Musa, the CEO of Waterkeepers Iraq-Kurdistan, began the meeting by introducing Waterkeepers and sharing the story behind its foundation. He detailed how the organization addresses natural and environmental crises on a daily basis.
Several projects and activities were presented, and many common interests were discussed. Mr. Neil Gundavda expressed his appreciation for the efforts and accomplishments Waterkeepersers Iraq-Kurdistan. He emphasized the importance of establishing a collaborative partnership between both parties as soon as possible.

Waterkeepers Iraq-Kurdistan Organization conducted an inspection trip to monitor environmental pollution along the roads from Sulaymaniyah to Kirkuk and from Kirkuk to Erbil. Our key findings are alarming:
We observed severe air pollution from black smoke emissions, particularly from oil refineries in Bazyan and between Kirkuk and Erbil, which are significantly harming air quality. Additionally, numerous unauthorized dumpsites filled with plastic waste and mixed rubbish were found along the route, existing due to a lack of formal waste management systems.
These pollution sources pose long-term risks to the environment and public health. Without intervention, the situation will only worsen.
Urgent action is needed to regulate refinery emissions, establish waste management programs, and raise awareness about illegal dumping. Let's work together to protect our environment and health!