The Role of Climatic Factors in Developing Sustainable Tourism in the Northeastern Region of Iraq

Abstract

The research deals with the impact of climate factors on the development of sustainable tourism in Iraq, as it discusses how climate change, such as rising temperatures, drought and desertification, affects natural resources and human, economic and social activities. The research focuses on the Kurdistan region of Iraq, which has been particularly affected by these factors, leading to a decline in water levels, deterioration of agricultural lands and population migration. This study aims to reveal the effects of climate factors in Iraq, especially droughts that have greatly affected the natural environment, human activities and the economic and social aspects of the population in the study area in recent years. It also aims to present ways to address or reduce the negative effects of climate change and achieve sustainable development in the study area. This study was conducted on the basis of analytical and descriptive approaches. The analytical approach relied on analysis, and the study relied on satellite images and their analysis using modern geographical techniques such as geographic information systems and remote sensing. The study concluded that the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, which is located in a semi-mountainous area with a semi-arid climate and uncertain rainfall, is greatly affected by climatic factors, especially drought, which negatively affects agricultural activity and surface and groundwater resources. This impact has been clearly reflected in economic, agricultural and social activities, and has led to the deterioration of the natural environment and increased migration from rural areas to urban centers.

The study recommended the need to allocate an appropriate budget to address the negative effects of climate change in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, and to take the necessary governmental measures to overcome the obstacles that hinder sustainable development. Among the important recommendations are the construction of dams and artificial lakes on seasonal streams to harvest rainwater and store it for use during periods of drought, in addition to encouraging farmers and livestock breeders to use modern technologies appropriate to the climatic conditions in the region.