How are Iraqi communities exposed to toxic oil field barrels?

Chemical barrels from oil fields are often sold to residents and reused for storing drinking water, with insufficient washing failing to remove hazardous residues.

How does oil pollution affect livelihoods in Maysan, Iraq?

Oil pollution has led to dwindling fish stocks and dying buffalo, forcing residents into low-paying oil field jobs and impacting traditional livelihoods.

Home / Environment / Iraq: Toxic Barrels Poison Water, Lives

Iraq: Toxic Barrels Poison Water, Lives

Q: What are the health risks associated with drinking contaminated water in Iraq?

The contaminated water can lead to chronic health issues affecting the liver, kidneys, and nervous system, with children being particularly vulnerable.

4 Feb

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Summary

Reused chemical barrels from oil fields contaminate drinking water.
Contaminated water affects liver, kidney, and nervous systems.
Oil pollution severely impacts livelihoods and health in Maysan.

In rural Iraq, residents like Haider are unknowingly exposing their families to severe health risks by using barrels from oil fields to store drinking water. These barrels, originally intended for chemicals, are often sold after use, with washing proving insufficient to remove dangerous residues that leach into the water.

Environmental activists and health officials warn that prolonged contact with these chemicals can lead to chronic health issues affecting the liver, kidneys, and nervous system, particularly in children. Despite warnings, no clear regulations have been implemented to stop this hazardous trade, leaving communities in Maysan vulnerable.

Beyond contaminated water, oil expansion is devastating local ecosystems and traditional livelihoods. Fishermen like Kazem report dwindling fish stocks and dying buffalo due to pollution and drought, forcing them into low-paying oil field jobs. Residents experience respiratory problems from flaring, while heavy metals exceeding safety standards are found in local water bodies.