Baghdad's Green Future

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed S. Al-Sudani has officially launched the ‘Baghdad Sustainable Forests Project’, the developments of which, are taking place on the former Al-Rashid campsite, marking a significant milestone in Iraq’s environmental efforts. 

During the launching ceremony, Al-Sudani emphasised the importance of this project, as one of the first of its kind in Iraq. The project aims to develop new residential cities, such as Ali Al-Wardi and Al-Jawhari, on the outskirts of the capital, incorporating substantial greenery.

The Baghdad Sustainable Forests Project is designed to serve as a major environmental, cultural and tourist hub, offering a much-needed natural retreat for families in the capital. 

The project will introduce approximately 1 million trees across 28 forests.

Beyond the environmental impact, the project is expected to generate 80,000 job opportunities, significantly boosting the local economy. 

With the pressing environmental challenges Iraq faces, the government is following key actions to address these issues: tackling overexploitation of green spaces, addressing pollution and gas flaring, particularly in areas such as Southern Iraq, and prioritising emission reduction and improving water treatment. 

Al-Rashid Camp had previously drawn interest from real estate developers, however, the government reviewed land-use plans for Baghdad and determined that the city needed more green spaces. As a result, the decision was made to convert the site into a recreational forest. 

Al-Sudani reaffirmed that the Baghdad Sustainable Forests Project represents a significant environmental and social investment in the capital, providing a much-needed natural sanctuary for families across Iraq.

Source: Iraqi Prime Minister Media Office