Sustainable Development in Iraq 2026: Between Environmental Challenges and Economic Opportunities

Abstract

This article examines the trajectory of sustainable development in Iraq during 2026, drawing attention to the significant discrepancy between officially reported carbon figures and the empirical findings of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology. Results indicate that the actual carbon intensity of the electricity sector reaches 831 g CO₂/kWh once gas-flaring emissions are incorporated—a figure 40% higher than the officially declared 592 g. The study further documents a structural water crisis manifested in a 40% decline in Tigris-Euphrates inflows since 2020, producing an annual water deficit of 40 billion cubic metres. In response, the article proposes an integrated three-track roadmap encompassing immediate institutional reforms, medium-term regional partnerships, and long-term structural transitions aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals 6, 7, and 13.