Center for Climate Change, Water Security, and Environmental Sustainability
Driving Innovation and Research for a Sustainable Future in Iraq and the MENA Region
Our Mission:
Shaping the Future of Sustainability in Iraq and Beyond
The Center for Climate Change, Water Security, and Environmental Sustainability (CWE) at the American University of Iraq – Baghdad is dedicated to advancing research, education, and policy solutions that address the pressing environmental challenges facing Iraq and the MENA region. Our mission is to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, promote sustainable practices, and empower communities by providing actionable insights into climate resilience, water resource management, and environmental stewardship. Through innovation, advocacy, and capacity-building, we aim to contribute to a sustainable future for Iraq and beyond.
Our Areas of Expertise
Climate Change Mitigation & Adaptation: CWE focuses on strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance community and ecosystem resilience to climate change impacts. Our initiatives involve researching climate change’s impact on public health, renewable energy, promoting sustainable agricultural practices, and advising policymakers on adaptation measures.
Water Security: With water scarcity becoming one of Iraq’s most pressing challenges, our center leads projects on sustainable water management, irrigation practices, and policies to ensure equitable and efficient use of water resources across sectors.
Environmental Sustainability: We emphasize preserving Iraq’s rich biodiversity, promoting sustainable land use, and implementing conservation practices. Our efforts are centered around restoring ecosystems, combating desertification, and protecting Iraq’s natural resources for future generations.
Our Achievements to Date
Capacity Building: At the Center for Climate Change, Water Security, and Environmental Sustainability, we are hiring highly skilled, passionate professionals who are committed to driving innovative research and sustainable solutions to address Iraq’s most pressing environmental challenges.
White Paper on Climate Change: Published a comprehensive white paper on climate change in Iraq, outlining the risks, challenges, and actionable solutions for policymakers, researchers, and communities.
Environmental Studies Minor Program: Developed the first draft of an Environmental Studies Minor program, which will provide students with the knowledge and tools to address pressing environmental issues in the region.
Relationships Building: The Center has visited and/or established relationships with pertinent Iraqi ministries (Environment, Oil, Electricity, Water Resources, Migration and Displaced), International Organizations (UNDP, WHO, UNEP, US Peace Institute)
AUIB Research: The Center recently issued a Call for Research Proposals and received an overwhelming response, highlighting the quality of AUIB’s research poll. Researchers from every college at AUIB submitted proposals which will be going through the review process
Collaborative Research Initiatives: The Center is in the early stages of launching research projects in collaboration with local and international partners, DAAD, Action Against Hunger, and the University of Pennsylvania Water Center, USA, to tackle climate change and enhance water security.
Building Strong Partnerships for Greater Impact
National Investment Commission (NIC): We are actively working with NIC to draft MOUs and explore investment opportunities for green infrastructure and sustainability projects across Iraq.
Action Against Hunger, Forsa, and REGREENING: Through collaborative efforts, we are developing initiatives to predict water security issues, student engagement on an international scale, restore degraded ecosystems, promote food security, and combat desertification across Iraq and the MENA Region
Global University Partnerships: Our center maintains strong relationships with international institutions, including Exeter University and other partner universities in the USA, to advance knowledge sharing and joint research on global environmental issues.
Empowering Communities Through Knowledge and Training
Annual Climate Change Conference (Spring 2025): Join us at the American University of Iraq – Baghdad for a landmark event that brings together global experts, policymakers, and researchers to discuss climate change and its regional impacts.
Quality Management System: ISO Climate Change Seminar: We recently delivered training to business leaders from Iraq and the MENA region on how to integrate ISO 9001 standards with climate change initiatives for better corporate responsibility.
Upcoming Workshops: Regular workshops on sustainable farming, water management, and climate adaptation strategies for local communities, farmers, and students.
Join Us in Making a Difference
For Students: Enroll in our upcoming Environmental Studies Minor or participate in our research and fieldwork opportunities to gain hands-on experience in solving real-world environmental challenges.
For Researchers: Collaborate with us on groundbreaking research by applying for our mini-research grants or joining our global research networks focused on sustainability.
For Partners and Donors: Support our mission by partnering with us on sustainability projects, contributing to our research fund, or sponsoring key initiatives aimed at improving Iraq’s environmental future.
Stay Up to Date with Our Latest News
Recent Updates: We plan on providing IT/MarCom regular news posts about recent publications, media coverage, and success stories from ongoing projects.
Newsletter Signup: We ask for a section to encourage visitors to subscribe to a quarterly newsletter featuring updates on research, events, and partnership opportunities.
