Baghdad – The Municipality of Baghdad is moving forward with an extensive environmental initiative that aims to plant 300,000 perennial trees across the capital before June 15. The project seeks to reduce rising temperatures, expand green spaces, and improve the city’s urban environment.
The Baghdad tree planting campaign forms part of broader efforts to address environmental challenges linked to extreme summer heat. As a result, city officials hope the initiative will increase shade coverage and enhance the quality of life for residents across Baghdad.
Municipal spokesperson Uday Al-Jandail said authorities have set June 15 as the final date for spring planting activities. According to municipal guidelines, workers must complete all planting operations before temperatures reach their seasonal peak. Consequently, officials believe the schedule will give newly planted trees a better chance of survival.
After June 15, the municipality will suspend tree-planting activities until autumn. Meanwhile, environmental teams will continue monitoring existing green areas and preparing for the next planting season. Officials say previous experience has shown that summer planting often results in significant losses due to extreme heat.
The Baghdad tree planting campaign focuses on species capable of withstanding Iraq’s harsh climate. Therefore, the municipality has selected perennial trees such as Albizia and Acacia, both known for their resilience and ability to thrive in high temperatures. In addition, these species provide shade quickly, helping reduce heat exposure in urban neighborhoods.
Baghdad Mayor Ammar Musa Kazem launched the campaign on March 12. Since then, municipal teams have worked continuously to expand green areas throughout the city. Moreover, authorities have encouraged public participation to strengthen environmental awareness and community involvement.
The project relies on cooperation between multiple groups. Youth volunteers, civil society organizations, students, local residents, and municipal workers all contribute to the effort. Furthermore, government institutions and private companies have provided support to help accelerate planting activities across different districts.
Beyond landscaping projects, city officials also reported progress in sanitation services. According to Al-Jandail, Baghdad’s waste management departments collect between 9,000 and 10,000 tons of solid waste every day. Consequently, sanitation crews continue operating on a large scale to maintain public cleanliness across residential and commercial areas.
Municipal authorities use a fleet of waste collection vehicles and a substantial workforce to handle daily operations. Additionally, the municipality brings in private-sector equipment whenever demand exceeds available capacity. This approach helps ensure uninterrupted cleaning services throughout the capital.
The Baghdad tree planting campaign reflects the city’s growing focus on environmental sustainability and urban development. As a result, officials expect the initiative to improve green coverage, strengthen climate resilience, and create healthier public spaces for residents in the years ahead.