Iraqi green observatory warns of recurring foul odors in Baghdad

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Green Environment Observatory has warned that the spread of foul odors across Baghdad could recur in the coming days, identifying sulfur emissions from oil and industrial facilities around the city and illegal waste burning among the leading causes. Observatory officials said authorities had not imposed lasting or strict measures against pollution sources, allowing facilities to resume operations and continue releasing harmful emissions into the atmosphere. Residents of Baghdad, particularly in the southern Nahrawan district and near the Reshid camp, have reported sulfur-tinged smells they associate with waste burning. In the city of Bismaya, residents used social media to urge the Environment Ministry and relevant agencies to intervene against the pollution. The Federal Commission of Integrity previously drew up an eight-step action plan that includes accounting for unlicensed incinerators and installing filtration systems. According to IQAir data, Baghdad ranked second among the world's most polluted cities last year.