Basra Oil Pollution / التلوث البيئي في البصرة

Petition to Address Environmental and Health Issues Caused by Oil Extraction in Basra

The people of Basra Basra Forum Group

20 June 2023

To: HE The Prime Minister of Iraq

To: Ministry of Oil represented by HE the Minster of Oil

To: Basra Oil Company represented by HE The Director General

To: Basra Governorate represented by HE the Governer

To: All International Oil Companies operating in Iraq Southern Oilfield

Subject: Petition to Address Environmental and Health Issues Caused by Oil Extraction in Basra

Dear All

We, the undersigned, are deeply concerned about the grave environmental and health issues faced by the local population of Basra due to oil extraction practices in the region. It is with a sense of urgency and responsibility that we call upon the local and central governments, as well as international major oil companies operating in Basra, to take immediate and concrete actions to address these pressing matters.

The rampant burning of oil and gas during the extraction process, commonly known as flaring, is wreaking havoc on the environment and posing severe health risks to the people living in the vicinity of the Basra oil field. As concerned citizens, we cannot stand idly by while our fellow human beings suffer from the consequences of unchecked industrial practices.

The key issues that demand urgent attention are as follows:

Health Impacts: The toxic emissions from flaring have dire consequences for the health of local communities. Respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular problems, and other health issues have become alarmingly prevalent among the population, especially vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly.

Environmental Degradation: Flaring releases substantial amounts of greenhouse gases and air pollutants, contributing to climate change and causing irreparable damage to the environment. The ecological balance of Basra and the surrounding areas is at risk, threatening the delicate ecosystems that sustain life in the region.

We firmly believe that corporations must not prioritize profits at the expense of the environment and human health. It is the moral duty of international oil companies operating in Basra to uphold ethical practices and prioritize the well-being of the local population and the environment.

Therefore, we, the concerned citizens and supporters of this petition, humbly request the following actions be taken:

Immediate Mitigation: Implement measures to drastically reduce or eliminate the practice of flaring during oil extraction, adopting more sustainable and environmentally responsible methods.

Comprehensive Health Impact Assessment: Conduct an independent and transparent health impact assessment in the affected communities to better understand the extent of the health risks and prioritize healthcare interventions.

Transparent Reporting: Require oil companies to provide regular and detailed reports on their environmental practices, emissions, and measures taken to mitigate their impact.

Strengthened Regulations: Collaborate with international bodies and organizations to establish and enforce stronger regulations on oil extraction practices, ensuring adherence to environmentally sustainable standards.

Community Engagement: Involve local communities in decision-making processes related to oil extraction and its environmental and social consequences, giving them a voice in shaping their own future.

We appeal to the sense of responsibility and morality of all stakeholders involved to take immediate and decisive actions. The well-being of our planet and the health of its inhabitants are at stake, and it is our collective duty to protect and preserve them for future generations.

We kindly request your prompt attention to this pressing matter and look forward to receiving your concrete and committed response to our petition.

Sincerely,

Basra, Iraq