The Green Spaces Matter campaign has officially taken root in Dhi Qar Province, signaling a major step toward climate action. The National Climate Change Team launched this initiative with strong support from the Prime Minister’s Office and the Supreme Council for Youth.
Local coordinator Haider Salah explained the initiative in an interview. He said the campaign began under the title “Organized Agriculture” and expanded with a second phase called “Make Your Home Green.” These activities have spread across 18 provinces and recently reached Dhi Qar.
The campaign works closely with local authorities, including the municipal and agricultural departments, as well as residents and volunteers. Their collective goal is to increase urban greenery and promote sustainable planting practices. Salah emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving lasting environmental results.
The current planting effort in Dhi Qar focused on areas lacking vegetation. Teams planted 500 seedlings in the first round and plan another 500 in the second. That brings the total to 1,000 new plants, which will help revive struggling green zones. According to Salah, these efforts aim to counter the province’s long-standing issues with drought and desertification.
The campaign also highlights the ideal timing of tree planting. March serves as a prime season for both shade and seasonal trees. Organizers designed the project to strengthen tree sustainability and to support the natural landscape. They selected native plants to improve survival rates and reduce long-term maintenance.
Importantly, Green Spaces Matter encourages youth participation. The team consists of 40 to 50 members from different towns and districts in Dhi Qar. They take part in workshops, educational programs, and awareness sessions to understand climate impact and action strategies.
Volunteer Tariq Al-Ghalbi shared details about one transformative project. The team cleaned a garbage-filled public area and planted it with 500 seedlings. The once-polluted space now serves as a green haven for nearby families. This transformation reflects the campaign’s deeper mission.
Through unified community action, Green Spaces Matter continues to inspire environmental responsibility and hope. With more regions embracing this effort, Iraq’s path toward ecological renewal becomes clearer.
