Climate Change Mapping in Iraq

MASAE worked in collaboration with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) to address climate risks in some of Iraq’s most vulnerable regions. Using advanced mapping technology, we created detailed hazard maps to visualise climate threats—from droughts to extreme weather—in Ninewa, Anbar, Kirkuk, and the southern marshlands. The project also identified opportunities for private-sector collaboration to protect communities and ecosystems.

Geography

Client

International Rescue Committee (IRC)

Regions

Why This Matters

Climate change is reshaping Iraq’s landscapes, threatening livelihoods in agriculture-dependent regions and exacerbating water scarcity. By pinpointing risks and engaging local stakeholders, this initiative helps communities prepare for challenges while unlocking partnerships to drive sustainable solutions.

Our Approach

MASAE combined cutting-edge technology with on-the-ground insights:

  • Climate Risk Mapping:
    Developed GIS-based hazard maps categorising risks by severity and probability, providing a clear visual tool for decision-makers.

  • Community-Centred Research:
    Conducted focus groups with farmers and interviews with agricultural companies to understand local challenges and opportunities.

  • Partnership Building:
    Analysed existing climate initiatives and recommended strategies for improved coordination between NGOs, governments, and businesses.

Results and Impact

The project delivered actionable insights to the IRC and Iraqi stakeholders:

  • Targeted Recommendations:
    Prioritised interventions based on regional vulnerabilities, from water management in the marshes to drought resilience in northern farmlands.

  • Private Sector Pathways:
    Identified roles for businesses in climate adaptation, such as sustainable agriculture investments and green technology partnerships.

  • Enhanced Coordination:
    Mapped overlapping efforts across organisations to reduce duplication and amplify impact.

MASAE partnered with the German Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR) and the DRC Ministry of Environment to empower local experts with cutting-edge geospatial skills. This collaborative training initiative focused on using open-source tools like QGIS and remote sensing technologies to tackle pressing environmental and regulatory challenges.

MASAE partnered with the German Federal Institute for Geosciences and Natural Resources (BGR) and the DRC Ministry of Environment to empower local experts with cutting-edge geospatial skills. This collaborative training initiative focused on using open-source tools like QGIS and remote sensing technologies to tackle pressing environmental and regulatory challenges.

MASAE partnered with Agence Française de Développement (AFD) to empower their staff with geospatial skills critical for addressing urban development and infrastructure challenges. This online training programme equipped non-technical teams with the tools to harness geospatial data, enabling smarter decision-making in projects worldwide.

MASAE partnered with Agence Française de Développement (AFD) to empower their staff with geospatial skills critical for addressing urban development and infrastructure challenges. This online training programme equipped non-technical teams with the tools to harness geospatial data, enabling smarter decision-making in projects worldwide.