Erbil’s air quality has improved dramatically, with levels now 80% cleaner than last year, government officials reported. The Kurdistan Regional Government’s (KRG) Runaki program accounted for 50% of this improvement, highlighting its impact on reducing pollution across the city.
Dilshad Hirani, director of the Erbil Environmental Office, said that coordinated government measures and stricter regulations drove the significant progress. “The air in Erbil is getting cleaner, but we must continue our efforts to maintain these gains,” Hirani said. “This marks a major achievement, as we haven’t reached such results in years.”
The government identified several key drivers behind the cleaner air, including a sharp reduction in diesel generators across neighborhoods, the closure of illegal oil refineries, installation of smoke-reducing filters in restaurants, and stricter vehicle emission standards. Additionally, authorities improved the quality of diesel and gasoline supplied in the city and implemented new regulations to oversee fuel use and industrial activity more rigorously.
The KRG has launched broader efforts to address environmental challenges in Erbil and surrounding areas. Prime Minister Masrour Barzani chaired high-level meetings to curb pollution, resulting in enhanced monitoring, enforcement, and investment in cleaner energy solutions. The Runaki program has become central to these initiatives, promoting sustainability and reducing smog in urban neighborhoods.
Experts note that Erbil faced rising pollution in recent years due to rapid urbanization, growing vehicle numbers, and heavy reliance on diesel generators. Unchecked pollution had posed serious health risks, including respiratory illnesses and ecological damage.
Officials view the 80% improvement as a significant step toward global sustainability standards. However, Hirani emphasized that Erbil must sustain these measures and expand them in the coming years. Continued enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and investment in clean energy remain crucial for long-term air quality gains.
The KRG’s active measures through the Runaki program demonstrate that coordinated policy, regulation, and public cooperation can dramatically enhance environmental conditions. Officials hope that Erbil’s success will serve as a model for other cities in the Kurdistan Region.