The Kurdistan Regional Government, represented by the Ministry of Municipalities and Tourism and the Governorate of Erbil, officially laid the foundation stone for the new Krekaran Neighborhood Park on May 24, marking the beginning of a major environmental and urban development initiative in the city.
As part of the project, the Kurdistan Foundation, through its environmental entity Climate.KRD, will lead the greening of the park’s 42,000-square-meter area under a joint framework aimed at enhancing urban sustainability and environmental resilience. The initiative will transform a former local market site into a modern public green space designed to serve thousands of residents while contributing to Erbil’s long-term environmental goals.
The project seeks to expand urban green coverage, improve environmental conditions and public health, and strengthen the city's capacity to address climate change challenges. By increasing vegetation, reducing carbon emissions, and restoring ecological balance, the park is expected to become a significant environmental asset for the surrounding community.
Spanning 42,000 square meters, the park will feature extensive tree planting, including beech, pine, olive, and Arizona cypress trees. To ensure sustainable maintenance, the project includes the installation of a 100,000-liter water reservoir and an efficient irrigation system capable of supporting the park’s long-term development.
According to project estimates, the site will generate approximately 160 tons of oxygen annually, reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 33.6 tons each year, and store up to 336 tons of carbon dioxide over a ten-year period. The project is being implemented in close coordination with relevant regional authorities to ensure environmental sustainability and long-term impact.
Speaking during the foundation stone ceremony, Erbil Governor Omed Khoshnaw described the initiative as a continuation of ongoing efforts across Erbil and the Kurdistan Region to increase green spaces and improve environmental conditions. He also expressed his appreciation to the Kurdistan Foundation for its contribution to the establishment of the park and its support for sustainable urban development initiatives.
Representatives of the Kurdistan Foundation reaffirmed the organization's commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development, emphasizing the importance of investing in green infrastructure to enhance quality of life and strengthen climate resilience across the Kurdistan Region.
The Krekaran Neighborhood Park project reflects the Kurdistan Foundation’s broader vision of promoting environmental sustainability, improving air quality, expanding urban green spaces, and supporting ecological development for future generations. Once completed, the park is expected to serve as a model for community-centered environmental projects that combine urban development with long-term climate action.
