The World Bank has approved an $18.5 million project to assist Iraq in reducing environmental and health risks associated with Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and other chemical pollution hotspots. The initiative, named the Integrated Persistent Organic Pollutants and Chemical Hotspots Project, is co-financed by a $13.49 million grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and a $5 million grant from the Iraq Reform, Recovery and Reconstruction Fund (I3RF).
The project aims to eliminate or contain approximately 4,000 tons of hazardous chemicals. It will also work on developing policies for hazardous chemical management and establishing a monitoring system for chemical substances in Iraq. Past conflicts have left Iraq's oil and industrial sectors heavily contaminated, with POPs among the most harmful chemicals involved.
Dr. Hallo Alaskari, Minister of Environment in Iraq, stated: “Thanks to the two grants from GEF and I3RF, this project will help Iraq address the significant health and environmental impacts caused by hazardous chemicals.” He noted that it builds on a road map developed with assistance from the World Bank to tackle chemical pollution in the country.
The Government of Iraq has begun regulatory actions to combat chemical pollution through new legislation and monitoring departments within its Ministry of Environment. This project will support policy development and capacity building at various institutional levels through training programs and provision of necessary equipment.
Jean-Christophe Carret, World Bank Middle East Country Director, emphasized: “Pollution and land contamination have a long-lasting impact on the safety, health, and livelihoods of communities.” He affirmed the World Bank's commitment to aiding Iraq's developmental goals while addressing its environmental challenges.