The Technology Incubator and Ecosystem Unit at the Marine Science Centre recently held a scientific lecture entitled 'Increased Salinity in the Shatt al-Arab Waterway'. A Recurring Phenomenon: Causes and Solutions”.

Presented by M.M. Faiz Younis Khalil, the lecture addressed the phenomenon of increasing salinity in the Shatt al-Arab, a recurring environmental problem affecting Basra and its inhabitants. This is caused by a decline in the flow of fresh water from the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, resulting from the construction of dams and climate change. The salty waters of the Arabian Gulf also contribute to the increase in salinity, which has a negative impact on drinking water and agriculture. Other environmental challenges include industrial and agricultural pollution, and the decline of palm forests.

Solving this problem requires political cooperation with upstream countries, the development of infrastructure such as dams and desalination plants, and improved local water management. Solutions must be comprehensive and multi-level, extending beyond local measures to encompass regional water agreements that ensure fair water distribution.

Media Centre for Marine Sciences