Overview

Iraq, a nation prone to natural disasters, is made more vulnerable as a result of severe environmental degradation and neglect, weak legal and regulatory frameworks for environmental management, and weak institutional arrangements and capacities. 

Iraq faces many challenges as a result of climate change, including increased temperature, reduced precipitation, increased water scarcity and salinity, increasing prevalence of sand and dust storms and related disaster shocks, this create barriers to development in the post-conflict context,  hampering efforts to decrease poverty, boost livelihoods and reduce conflict over natural resources.

UNDP aims to contribute to Iraq’s environmental rehabilitation and development efforts by addressing the root causes, risks and mitigation measures associated with environmental degradation, climate change, and disasters shocks through capacity building and technical assistance. Support for relevant ministries and departments of the national and local government, as well as the regional authorities, is designed to enable them to fulfill their legal obligations and policy and regulatory commitments to promote environmental sustainability and climate resilience in Iraq.

Programmes and Initiatives

Mosul Dam Emergency Preparedness Plan

Catalysing the Use of Solar Photovoltaic Energy

Green Climate Fund Readiness Programme in Iraq

Promoting Carbon Reduction Through Energy Efficiency Techniques

Support to Iraq's Nationally Determined Contribution

_{COP26 in 2021}

UNDP and the Government of Iraq are working toward the finalization of the National Determind Contribution (NDC) which supports environmental, social and economic sustainability, and identifies priority thematic sectors to be targeted for climate change mitigation and adaptation, with a view to submit at COP26.