Trends in Air Pollution in the Middle and South of Iraq: As Climate Change Evidence in the Region

Abstract

Changes in climatic circumstances brought on by climate change could influence air pollution and finally harm the ecosystem and human health. From January to December, central and southern Iraq saw air quality and climate indicators in 2021 and 2024. Temperatures increased in 2024 compared to 2021, especially in Maysan city, where they hit about 52°C. Furthermore, yearly variation in wind speed is possible; relative humidity was maximum in 2024 in Baghdad City at 58.4. Air pollution levels of CH₄ in Wasit City peaked in 2024, above those noted in 2021, at 1923.34 ppmv. Moreover, 2024 saw the highest NO₂ level in Baghdad city at 158.553 µmol/m². The PCA and correlation studies indicated a positive association between CO, and NO₂ with wind speed, implying that these gases in the atmosphere of central and southern Iraq are influenced by wind speed. Moreover, O₃ and temperature have unfavorable connections, implying that these factors could influence the level of O₃ in the atmosphere.