The Kurdistan Regional Government continues expanding the Green Belt project around Erbil as part of one of the Ninth Cabinet’s largest environmental and urban transformation initiatives.
Officials describe the project as a long-term strategy designed to protect the environment, improve urban planning, and strengthen climate resilience across the Kurdistan Region.
The Green Belt initiative focuses on planting hundreds of thousands of trees and creating wide green zones surrounding Erbil. Authorities say the project aims to reduce pollution, limit desertification, and improve air quality in rapidly expanding urban areas.
Environmental experts also believe the project can help reduce the impact of dust storms and rising temperatures caused by climate change.
Hemin Said Murad previously confirmed that the first phase of the initiative is progressing rapidly. Agricultural teams continue irrigation, maintenance, and tree protection work across the project areas.
Officials selected tree species that match the region’s climate and environmental conditions to improve long-term sustainability.
Additionally, the Green Belt project supports broader urban planning goals. Authorities aim to create natural barriers around Erbil while protecting agricultural land from uncontrolled urban expansion.
The initiative also includes recreational and tourism elements. Officials hope the project will eventually provide larger public green spaces and improve the overall quality of life for residents.
The Green Belt forms part of the KRG’s wider environmental policies under the Ninth Cabinet. In recent years, the government has increased efforts to support sustainable development, improve water management, and reduce environmental degradation.
Climate concerns have become increasingly important across Iraq and the Kurdistan Region due to drought, declining rainfall, and rising temperatures.
Officials say the Green Belt project represents a strategic investment in Kurdistan’s environmental future and urban sustainability. Future phases are expected to expand the initiative into additional areas surrounding Erbil.