Wadee Al Handal, Chairman of Al Handal International Group (HIG) and President of the Iraqi Private Banks League (IPBL), participated in the “Urban Afforestation in Iraq: Towards Greener and More Sustainable Cities” workshop, held on December 17-18, 2024.
The workshop was part of a broader initiative to implement the recommendations of the Basra climate change conference, particularly the 5 million trees initiative, under the guidance of the Iraqi Prime Minister.
The two-day event brought together directors of municipalities from 15 provinces, representatives from the Ministries of Environment and Agriculture, and experts from the University of Baghdad. The workshop aimed to promote urban afforestation as a means of enhancing Iraq’s green infrastructure and fostering sustainable cities.
On the opening day, Mr. Al Handal delivered a keynote address, emphasizing the critical role of public and private sector collaboration in achieving Iraq's environmental and economic goals. His speech highlighted the importance of collective efforts to create greener urban spaces and ensure environmental security for future generations.
Key topics discussed during the workshop included the importance of urban afforestation, selecting tree types for urban areas, agricultural sustainability techniques, and community engagement in afforestation projects. The event concluded with a field activity focused on implementing urban greening practices, further reinforcing the practical applications of the workshop's teachings.
Mr. Al Handal remarked, “Urban afforestation is a vital step in transforming our cities into sustainable spaces that support both environmental and economic prosperity. Initiatives like these reflect our commitment to a greener Iraq.”
The workshop is a significant milestone in Iraq's journey towards environmental sustainability, showcasing a shared vision for greener and more sustainable cities.