Environmental pollution in Khanaqin caused by the removal of orchards: an analysis of morphological changes and environmental degradation
October 2025 , Pages 651-668
Authors
Retired M. Abdullah Ali Ibrahim Ibrahim 1 ; Shadan Abdullah Ali Ali 2
1 Department of Geography, Faculty of Languages and Humanities - University of Garmian (formerly, currently retired).
2 Master's student, University of Kurdistan / Sanandaj – Iran
10.17656/11785
Keywords
Abstract
The city of Khanaqin has experienced significant changes in land usage in recent decades. Rapid urban expansion has led to the clearing of orchards causing several environmental issues as well as major morphological alterations to the urban fabric. The loss of vegetation that once served as a natural buffer against dust storms and airborne pollutants, as well as a means of regulating the local climate and purifying the air, is the main cause of air pollution. Whether as a result of intentional neglect or land-allocation regulations, approximately 1,296.8 (≈ 3.242 km2), including 140 orchards, were removed inside the municipal limits between 2005 and 2022. The quality of the urban environment and public health have suffered as a result of their absence, which has increased pollution levels. The loss of the orchards, which are essential green belts, has directly led to hotter temperatures and more dust during dry seasons. Examining the causes of urban expansion and the resulting ecological effects, particularly air pollution, as well as the related economic and social aspects, this study examines these land-use changes from an environmental-geographic standpoint. It also suggests sustainable ways to preserve the remaining orchards and restore their ecological roles, addressing the lack of environmental consciousness among locals and decision-makers.
Statistics
- Article view269
- Downloads1
- First online20 October 2025
- Published at20 October 2025
- RIS
- BibTeX
- EndNote
- Mendeley
- APA (7th edition)
- MLA (9th edition)
- Chicago
- Harvard
- IEEE
- Vancouver