Empowering Communities: Citizen Science and Environmental Stewardship in Iraq and Kurdistan

​As part of the "Citizen Science & Environmental Action Network in Iraq" program, Waterkeepers in Iraq and Kurdistan, alongside Senior Expert Sammy Kayyed and Omar Dewachi, led a vital field trip to various environmental hotspots in Sulaymaniyah. Participants conducted hands-on tests to monitor water and air quality, highlighting the importance of local environmental stewardship. These activities not only foster greater awareness but also empower communities to actively engage in protecting their natural resources. The Institute of Regional and International Studies (IRIS), in collaboration with PAX Organization, hosted the first workshop of this program. Led by Senior IRIS Fellow Omar Dewachi and Sammy Kayyed, alongside our team at Waterkeepers, this training is instrumental in building a network of citizen scientists dedicated to environmental action. Such initiatives are crucial for developing sustainable solutions, ensuring that water and air quality are preserved for future generations. Our work reinforces the role of local communities in safeguarding Iraq’s and Kurdistan’s natural heritage.