World Bank Approves $18.5 Million Project to Combat Chemical Pollution and Improve Livelihoods in Iraq

The Integrated Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) 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 World Bank Board of Executive Directors has approved an $18.5 million project aimed at mitigating environmental and health risks in Iraq caused by Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and other hazardous chemicals. The Integrated Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) 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's key objectives include the destruction, disposal, or containment of approximately 4,000 tons of POPs and other hazardous chemicals, as well as the development of policies and regulatory frameworks for hazardous chemical management. Additionally, it will establish a comprehensive management information system to monitor chemical substances across Iraq. This initiative is expected to significantly reduce environmental contamination, benefiting nearly seven million people affected by chemical pollution.

Decades of conflict have left Iraq's oil and industrial sectors severely contaminated, posing serious health and environmental threats. Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are among the most hazardous chemicals, linked to severe health issues and long-term environmental degradation. The economic costs of chemical pollution, including its impacts on public health, agriculture, and livelihoods, are substantial. By addressing these challenges, the project is set to improve health outcomes, create livelihood opportunities, and enhance Iraq's long-term environmental sustainability.

Dr. Hallo Alaskari, Iraq's Minister of Environment, emphasized the significance of the project, stating: "Thanks to the generous grants from GEF and I3RF, this initiative will support Iraq in addressing the grave health and environmental consequences of hazardous chemicals. The project aligns with our national roadmap, developed in collaboration with the World Bank, to tackle chemical pollution and ensure compliance with the Stockholm and Basel Conventions on hazardous chemical management."

The Iraqi government has already taken significant steps to tackle chemical pollution by enacting environmental legislation and establishing monitoring and assessment departments within the Ministry of Environment. The project will further strengthen Iraq's policy, regulatory, and institutional capacity for POPs management. Training programs and the provision of laboratory and field equipment will enhance the Ministry of Environment's capabilities, ensuring better monitoring and management of hazardous chemicals.

Jean-Christophe Carret, the World Bank's Middle East Country Director, underscored the importance of the initiative: "Pollution and land contamination have long-term consequences for community health, safety, and economic livelihoods. These issues disproportionately affect the most vulnerable populations, who depend heavily on natural resources. The World Bank remains committed to supporting Iraq's sustainable development agenda and helping address its environmental challenges."

By mitigating the risks of hazardous chemical exposure and strengthening regulatory frameworks, this project marks a significant step toward a cleaner and healthier Iraq.