Environmental Watchdog Warns of E-Waste Crisis in Iraq, Urging National Recycling Legislation

A specialized environmental watchdog has raised alarms over the escalating health and environmental impacts of electronic waste in Iraq, estimating annual accumulation at approximately 150,000 tons. According to the report, Baghdad generates the highest volume, followed by Basra, with much of the waste ending up in landfills or being dismantled unsafely. This crude process releases hazardous chemical toxins such as lead and mercury, contaminating soil and groundwater and posing severe health risks, particularly to children. The organization urged legislative and executive authorities to expedite a national e-waste management framework and establish state-of-the-art recycling facilities to reclaim valuable raw materials while mitigating environmental hazards.