A major tree-planting campaign has been launched in Zakho, in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, to mitigate the effects of climate change and expand green spaces. Under the project carried out in partnership with the Zakho Independent Administration, the International Labour Organization (ILO), and the University of Zakho, 16,350 trees will be planted.
The project will be implemented on an 80- to 90-dönüm (around 8-9 hectares) site allocated within the University of Zakho campus. This initiative is a key component of the administration's 'One Million Trees' campaign, under which more than 40,000 trees have already been planted across the region.
A Lasting Environmental Legacy
After a two-year planning phase, the project aims not just to plant trees but to ensure high long-term survival rates. To this end, an irrigation system meeting international standards will be installed, and a dedicated team will be tasked with maintaining the saplings.
The forest will consist primarily of pistachio and olive trees. Once completed, it is expected to improve air quality, expand the urban tree canopy, and support biodiversity.
Employment for Locals and Refugees
Beyond its environmental benefits, the project will also provide economic and social contributions. Planting and maintenance work will create jobs not only for local residents but also for internally displaced people and refugees.
The ILO will provide workers on the project with labor protections and comprehensive health insurance, safeguarding them against work-related accidents or health issues.
A Public Forest on Campus
Once completed, the project site will become a forest that can be used for education, recreation, and research. It will feature walking paths, seating areas, and cafes serving students, researchers, and visitors.
This initiative in Zakho stands out as one of the largest single-site projects of its kind to date. The partnership among public authorities, international organizations, and academic institutions highlights the importance of cooperation in achieving the region's sustainable environmental goals.
