Youth and Innovation Power Iraq’s Green Future

Over sixty young innovators, including many talented young women, gathered at the American University of Iraq – Baghdad (AUIB) for the Green Iraqi Innovators Conference and Competition. The event was co-organized by the UN Youth Advisory Council (UNYAC) and the Green Club at AUIB, in collaboration with the United Nations in Iraq and coordinated by the Resident Coordinator’s Office (RCO).

Representing the UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Hind Jalal, UNFPA Representative in Iraq, delivered remarks on behalf of Mr. Ghulam M. Isaczai, highlighting the creativity and determination of Iraq’s youth — and the importance of giving equal opportunities to young women and men to drive sustainable change.

She noted that the path toward a greener Iraq cannot be separated from the country’s broader development challenges. Despite progress, many young Iraqis continue to face barriers to employment, with youth unemployment exceeding 31 percent, and young women particularly affected, at around 40 percent. Addressing these gaps, she said, is essential to unlocking Iraq’s full potential.

“Iraq’s future lies not only in its rich history and natural resources, but in the boundless creativity and determination of its young people,” Ms. Jalal emphasized.

The event featured a panel discussion on “The Future of Green Innovation in Iraq” with experts from the UN, academia, and the private sector, followed by a youth competition where six teams presented practical ideas on renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, waste management, and digital innovation. Judges from FAO, the Iraq Green Building Council, and the Center for Climate Change, Water Security and Environmental Sustainability selected the winning projects.

Three projects stood out for their creativity, scientific depth, and potential impact:

1. Fuel and Lead – by Yaqoob and Arwa
A research-based project assessing the health and environmental impact of lead in fuel through field sampling and community awareness campaigns, calling for stricter fuel regulations and public education to reduce pollution and protect children’s health.

2. ABZU Project – by Ameer Saad
An innovative dual-purpose system that generates clean electricity while purifying water, designed to be low-cost, scalable, and environmentally sustainable.

3. Climate Change Consultant Internship (CCCI) – by Qaysar Alwardi

A six-month training programme creating Iraq’s first generation of climate consultants through scientific sessions, fieldwork, and partnerships with green companies.

The atmosphere was filled with energy and optimism as participants showcased innovative solutions to some of Iraq’s most pressing environmental challenges, ranging from renewable energy and waste recycling to sustainable construction and green technology.

Ms. Hind Jalal commended the enthusiasm and creativity of the young participants, noting how both young women and men are taking ownership of Iraq’s green future and finding smart, practical ways to protect the environment. She emphasized that Iraq’s youth are not waiting for solutions — they are creating them.

Organized under the theme “Youth for a Sustainable Iraq”, the conference provided a platform for participants to share ideas, network with mentors, and explore opportunities to advance climate action and innovation in their communities.

The Green Iraqi Innovators Conference is part of the UN’s ongoing efforts, coordinated by the RCO, to promote youth participation, women’s empowerment, and sustainable development in Iraq.

Congratulations to all participants and the winning team for their passion and innovative spirit in building a greener, more inclusive Iraq.