Story perspectives

Iraq Battles Intensifying Sandstorms with Innovative Solutions

12/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Sandstorms in southern Iraq have intensified due to climate change.
Authorities apply moist clay over dunes and plant heat-tolerant seedlings to stabilize soil.
The project, led by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), aims to cut dust storms from about 243 per year and could reach 300 by 2050, while safeguarding highways.
Iraq has fought desertification since the 1970s, underscoring the measures' importance for sustaining agriculture in sandy areas.

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Story summary

Sandstorms in southern Iraq have intensified due to climate change.
Authorities apply moist clay over dunes and plant heat-tolerant seedlings to stabilize soil.
The project, led by the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), aims to cut dust storms from about 243 per year and could reach 300 by 2050, while safeguarding highways.
Iraq has fought desertification since the 1970s, underscoring the measures' importance for sustaining agriculture in sandy areas.