Over 63,000 trees illegally cut down in Iraqi Kurdistan in 2024

ERBIL,—More than 63,000 trees were illegally felled in the forests of Iraq’s Kurdistan region last year, according to an official statement given to Rudaw TV on Friday.

Fuad Ahmad, the Director of Media for the Forest and Environment Police, confirmed that 63,350 trees were cut down in 2024.

He emphasized the importance of protecting unique species of trees found in the region. “In Kurdistan, there are certain trees that are rare, and it is crucial that people do not harm them, as their numbers are limited,” Ahmad said.

Ahmad further stated that the authorities have taken action to curb the illegal use of fresh wood. “We have informed the authorities that restaurants should be prohibited from using fresh, green wood for grilling or any other food preparation,” he noted.

A 2024 report by the Iraqi Ministry of Agriculture revealed that the Kurdistan region has experienced a significant loss of forest cover over the past five decades. During this period, the region has lost 50 percent of its planted forests and 30 percent of its natural forests.

The Kurdistan region, which holds the majority of Iraq’s forests, continues to face growing environmental challenges. These forests are under threat from both human activities and the impact of climate change.

As of 2024, the Kurdistan Region’s Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources reported that only 12 percent of the region’s land area remains covered in greenery.

The region’s forests are vital for maintaining biodiversity and combating climate change, making their preservation a priority for local authorities.

The illegal logging of trees remains a major concern for environmentalists in the region, with calls for stricter enforcement and more sustainable practices to protect the valuable forest ecosystems.

In Iraqi Kurdistan, many people show little concern for the environment, a trend seen across several countries in the Middle East.

Observers say locals often discard trash, including plastic bags and bottles, on city streets without a second thought. When asked why they don’t throw it in the trash, many respond that foreign workers, particularly cleaners from Asia, will handle the cleanup.

People left behind garbage, plastic bags, and bottles in Duhok in Iraqi Kurdistan after Newroz. March 21, 2021. Photo: Screengrab/Rudaw video

In Iraqi Kurdistan, like many other countries in the Middle East, many locals don’t pay much attention to the environment.

Observers say people often throw trash on the streets and in public places without thinking about it. When asked why they don’t use trash bins, some respond that the cleaners, who are usually foreign workers, will take care of it.

In Kurdistan’s countryside and mountains, picnickers often leave behind garbage, plastic bags, and bottles. This trash ends up being eaten by livestock, which can harm or even kill the animals.

Additionally, illegal oil refineries in the Kurdistan Region are contributing to serious pollution, further harming the environment. These refineries are a major source of contamination, affecting air and water quality in the area.

(With files from Rudaw)