On February 20, 2025, I will present a seminar at the First International Workshop on the Impact of Drought on Water Resources and the Environment in the Kurdistan Region, Iraq. My seminar is titled “The Effect of Drought on Air Quality in Erbil City: Impacts and Solutions.” In this seminar, I will explore the critical link between drought conditions and the deterioration of air quality in Erbil, focusing on how reduced water availability exacerbates air pollution levels and contributes to broader environmental challenges.

Key Discussion Points:

1. The Impact of Drought on Air Quality:
   • Increased Dust Storms: Drought conditions lead to soil degradation and desertification, which in turn causes more frequent and severe dust storms. These storms contribute to poor air quality, especially during the summer months, affecting respiratory health and exacerbating cardiovascular diseases.
   • Airborne Pollutants: With less water available for irrigation and dust suppression, particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) becomes more prevalent, leading to hazardous air pollution levels.
   • Elevated Temperatures: Drought often results in higher temperatures, which can increase the concentration of ground-level ozone (a harmful air pollutant) and worsen the air quality.
2. Environmental and Health Impacts:
   • Drought’s effect on water availability leads to reduced drinking water supplies and threatens agricultural productivity, further impacting food security and the local economy.
   • Public health risks increase as exposure to poor air quality can cause chronic illnesses, particularly in vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions.
3. Proposed Solutions:
   • Sustainable Water Management: Implementing rainwater harvesting and water-efficient technologies to reduce reliance on groundwater and surface water sources.
   • Dust Control Measures: Using vegetative cover and irrigation techniques to prevent soil erosion and mitigate the effects of dust storms.
   • Promoting Green Spaces: Developing more green infrastructure within the city to improve air quality, reduce heat islands, and contribute to carbon sequestration.
   • Air Quality Monitoring: Establishing comprehensive air quality monitoring systems to track pollution levels and protect public health.

This seminar is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) – Focusing on the importance of sustainable water management in the face of drought and the need for safe and clean water resources.
• SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) – Promoting sustainable water use and waste reduction to mitigate environmental degradation.
• SDG 13 (Climate Action) – Addressing the urgent need to combat climate change, with a focus on adaptation strategies for both air quality and water resources in drought-prone regions.

 

Link:

https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=672735921750463&set=a.238776971813029