As the global community prepares for COP30, the Republic of Iraq is reaffirming its commitment to addressing climate change, protecting its natural resources, and building a sustainable future for all Iraqis. Iraq recognizes the urgent need for climate action and is actively pursuing national strategies that align with the goals of the Paris Agreement and the broader global climate agenda.
A New Era of Environmental Responsibility
Iraq faces significant environmental challenges, including rising temperatures, declining water resources, desertification, and pollution from energy production—particularly gas flaring. These challenges threaten not only the health of the environment, but also the wellbeing of Iraq’s people, economy, and future generations.
In response, the Iraqi government has taken a number of bold steps to transition toward a more sustainable and climate-resilient economy. These include:
- Launching the GCCE, a public entity under the Ministry of Environment, to regulate and reduce national carbon emissions.
- Developing a national strategy for emissions reduction, including enhanced regulation of the oil and gas sector and expansion of renewable energy.
- Participating in regional climate cooperation to share knowledge, build capacity, and strengthen regional climate resilience.
Iraq at COP30
At COP30, Iraq will take an active role in international climate negotiations and showcase its progress on environmental reform. Key objectives for Iraq’s delegation include:
- Presenting Iraq’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), which outline specific targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Seeking technical and financial partnerships to support renewable energy projects, methane capture, reforestation, and climate adaptation in vulnerable areas.
- Engaging with international stakeholders, including multilateral institutions and climate finance mechanisms, to advance Iraq’s sustainable development goals.
- Highlighting Iraq’s commitment to phasing down gas flaring and investing in clean technologies across the energy sector.
A Vision for the Future
Iraq’s climate policy is grounded in the principles of sustainability, equity, and economic opportunity. As the country moves forward, the government is focused on:
- Creating green jobs
- Protecting biodiversity
- Securing water and food resources
- Enhancing energy efficiency and security
Through its presence at COP30, Iraq aims to position itself as a constructive and responsible partner in the global effort to confront climate change. This is not only a matter of environmental stewardship—it is a national priority for economic growth, public health, and long-term stability.
Together Toward Climate Resilience
The Iraqi government invites collaboration from international partners, regional neighbors, civil society, and the private sector as we work toward a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable Iraq.
