The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) continues expanding its Green Belt initiative around Erbil as hundreds of thousands of trees take root across newly developed environmental zones.
Hemin Said Murad said the first phase of the project is progressing rapidly and has already achieved significant results.
According to Murad, authorities planted hundreds of thousands of saplings across wide areas surrounding Erbil. The project aims to reduce pollution, improve air quality, and limit desertification and urban sprawl.
Officials also described the Green Belt initiative as one of the Kurdistan Region’s largest environmental projects. The plan supports broader government efforts to strengthen climate resilience and expand green spaces.
Murad explained that agricultural and environmental teams continue daily work on irrigation, maintenance, and tree protection to ensure long-term success. He added that authorities selected tree species suited to the region’s climate and soil conditions.
In addition, the project seeks to improve biodiversity and create natural barriers against dust storms and rising temperatures. Environmental experts say expanding vegetation around cities can help reduce the impact of climate change.
The initiative forms part of the Kurdistan Region’s wider environmental strategy under the ninth cabinet. Officials have increasingly focused on sustainable development, water management, and reducing carbon emissions.
Furthermore, authorities expect the Green Belt project to support tourism and recreational development around Erbil by creating larger natural and public green areas.
KRG officials say the project will continue in additional phases over the coming years as environmental programs expand across the Kurdistan Region.