As of 2021, Iraq is a signatory to the Paris Agreement on climate change. The Paris Agreement, adopted in 2015, is a legally binding international treaty that aims to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
The Paris Agreement was adopted by 196 countries, including Iraq. The agreement requires signatories to set ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and to regularly report on their progress towards meeting these targets. Iraq submitted its first Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) in 2020, outlining its plans to reduce emissions by 19% by 2030.
Iraq is a country that is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, with rising temperatures, increased drought, and water scarcity posing significant risks to its population and economy. The country is also heavily reliant on fossil fuels as a source of income, and reducing emissions will require significant investments in renewable energy and other low-carbon technologies.
Despite these challenges, Iraq remains committed to the goals of the Paris Agreement and has taken steps to implement policies to reduce its emissions. For example, the government has introduced measures to improve energy efficiency in buildings, promote the use of public transport, and increase the use of renewable energy sources.
In addition, Iraq has also received support from the international community to help meet its climate goals. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has provided funding and technical assistance to help improve energy efficiency, support renewable energy projects, and promote sustainable land use practices.
Overall, while Iraq faces significant challenges in meeting its climate goals, the country is committed to the goals of the Paris Agreement and is taking steps to reduce its emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. As a signatory to the agreement, Iraq has an important role to play in the global effort to tackle climate change, and its progress in meeting its climate targets will be closely watched by the international community.