Waterkeepers Iraq-Kurdistan Sounds Alarm on Severe Pollution from Sulaymaniyah to Erbil

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!