1- During October, association representative Muwaffaq Saleh Mubarakah, in cooperation with the "Baghdad Volunteer Afforestation Team" and local municipal authorities, supervised and trained members to conduct afforestation work across several sites in Baghdad. Key locations included Noon Wa Al-Qalam School in Al-Talbiya, as well as sidewalks and central medians in Al-Shaab, Palestine Street (between Al-Nakheel Mall and the Canal Highway intersection), and the Al-Slaikh intersection.
2- On October 21, 2024, the association provided and planted 30 diverse tree seedlings around the Intelligence and Criminal Investigations Training Institute (Police College) on Palestine Street, with the participation of Muwaffaq Mubarakah and new association member, agricultural engineer Mr. Mohammed Amjed. The association received an official letter of appreciation for these efforts, a copy of which is attached.
3- Issuing a written press statement to journalist Ahmed Laith / Al Jazeera Net on November 3, 2024, regarding the causes of recurring street flooding in Baghdad due to heavy rain, its environmental impacts, and responsible parties. The response highlighted that most sewage infrastructure is outdated, suffers from a lack of maintenance, and faces non-cooperation from some citizens—leading to blockages from construction debris or waste, especially through openings where drain covers have been stolen. Environmental impacts: Sewage overflows onto streets, homes, and gardens spread diseases and alter the soil composition of private and public gardens, potentially harming ornamental plants. Additionally, foul odors persist long after the crisis ends. Responsibility lies with everyone: citizens and responsible government departments.
4- Visiting the Real Estate Department at the Mayoralty of Baghdad in mid-month to follow up on the association's request for a 10-dunum land grant in Al-Za'franiya. The request was referred to the Karrada Municipal Directorate, and an inspection date will be scheduled as soon as possible.
5- The NGO Directorate / Legal Department invited Mr. Muwaffaq Saleh Mubarakah for a meeting on November 17, 2024, during which administrative challenges and potential solutions were reviewed and documented in internal memos.
6- A TV interview with journalist Ammar Hassan (Al-Rasheed Satellite TV) on November 18, 2024, discussing the sulfur odor in the air, its causes, health hazards, and other risks. The interview explained that key causes include factories using heavy fuel oil (black oil) and open waste burning—especially dangerous plastic waste, which causes serious diseases such as cancer and skin conditions. Relevant statistics can be obtained from the Ministry of Health. The clip can be viewed at the following link: (https://youtu.be/l5lJ-lTpoHg?si=tuQS-FypjR54yVNk).
7- On November 25, 2024, the association was invited to a meeting at the Technical Directorate of the Ministry of Environment alongside other civil society organizations to nominate two associations to participate in the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (COP 16), held in Saudi Arabia in early December 2024. The 12-day event includes panel discussions featuring delegates from around the world and includes an Iraqi pavilion. The Al-Aghsan Foundation for Agricultural and Environmental Development was nominated, alongside Mr. Uday Al-Rubaie representing our association in collaboration with the Al-Nahda Environmental Organization for the Protection of Environment and Agriculture. Necessary promotional materials highlighting activities and proposals will be prepared.
8- In the same context, a meeting was held attended by Muwaffaq Mubarakah representing the association, Ms. Intisar Jabbar, Dr. Shaker, and Mr. Uday Al-Rubaie (who holds joint membership in our association and Al-Nahda Organization). The meeting aimed to discuss joint activities, strengthen cooperation to ensure successful participation in the UN conference in Saudi Arabia, support afforestation and anti-desertification efforts across Iraq, and transcend personal matters for the national interest.
9- On November 26, 2024, a site visit was made to a project creating a ~385 m² garden in front of the General Company for Automotive and Machinery Trade headquarters on Palestine Street. The visit was attended by Mr. Muhyi Kazim, landscape engineer Mr. Ali from Salsabil Nursery, and company officials. Our recommendations included: replacing clay soil with quality river silt (Zameej) to a depth of 50 cm, selecting suitable tree species such as Egyptian Acacia, Tecoma, Jacaranda, and Vitex agnus-castus, and surrounding the site with prunable shrubs like Myrtle (Yas) and Carissa. Trees must also be planted prior to laying the turf grass.