Urban environmental problems in cities of the Kurdistan region in Iraq

Cities in the Kurdistan region in Iraq – particularly, the capital city of Hewlair (Erbil) – are facing environmental problems such as water, air and noise pollution. Political instability, ethnic tensions, politically motivated decisions, wars and economic sanctions, consumerism, lack of sufficient funds, and tension between the federal and regional governments due to power and wealth sharing are major contributors to the environmental problems; this paper will depict and analyse these. Although these problems are causing serious health issues for the inhabitants and sometimes death, the authorities are unable to solve them. The paper sheds light on the causes and effects of the environmental problems and also draws conclusions and makes suggestions.