A scientific study was conducted at the University of Basra, prepared by Dr. Mohammad Salim Moyel in the College of Science, Department of Ecology, in cooperation with a group of researchers from the University of Basra.
The study, which was published in the journal
International Journal of Sustainable Development and Planning
Classified within the scope of Scopus, there is a lack of understanding of environmental law among all segments of society studied in Basra Governorate and a low level of interest towards multiple environmental problems.
The study included conducting an exploratory survey by presenting a set of questions to a sample of 375 citizens who represented different segments of the population of Basra Governorate in terms of age, gender, level of education, and profession. It targeted the extent of knowledge of environmental legislation and familiarity with Iraqi Environmental Law No. 27 of 2009, and a statement of their positions toward various environmental issues.
The results of the study revealed a low level of environmental awareness among the citizens of Basra Governorate, which led to a general deficiency in environmental protection and misuse of the environment at the individual and societal levels. The study’s accurate depiction of society’s attitudes towards the environment represents a strong argument for the necessity of taking quick and decisive action towards multiple environmental problems and must be gained. Citizens provide the necessary motivational capabilities to address environmental problems and contribute to the preservation and sustainability of ecosystems.