Iraq’s capital, Baghdad, ranked first in the global pollution index on Sunday, according to weather forecaster Sadiq Attia. Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, followed in second and third places, respectively.
The record pollution levels in Baghdad were attributed to fine particles measuring 2.5 microns in diameter, composed of harmful substances such as carbon, lead, and ammonia, which pose significant health risks.
Iraq faces severe environmental challenges, with the Green Iraq Observatory identifying water scarcity and air pollution as major issues. Press reports indicate Iraq ranks second globally for environmental pollution, largely due to the annual burning of 18 billion cubic meters of gas, contributing to rising pollution levels in the capital.
