Reviving World Environment Day in Domiz Camp 2, A Community-Led Initiative for Sustainability

Harikar Outreach and the Communications with Communities (CwC) component, as part of the Protection and Assistance program for refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Duhok-Iraq, recently revived World Environment Day in Domiz Camp 2. This initiative, implemented in partnership with UNHCR, aimed to integrate environmental conservation activities into the lives of refugees, promoting sustainability and improving living conditions.

Event Overview

On June 5th, 2024, Domiz Camp 2 hosted World Environment Day activities with 100 attendees, including Community Outreach Volunteers (COVs), Harikar staff, camp management, and other NGOs. The event lasted for two hours and included tree planting, waste management, and recycling programs.

Key Activities

1. Tree Planting: Participants planted trees in various locations within the camp, creating new green spaces. This activity aimed to improve air quality and provide shade, enhancing the camp's environment.

2. Waste Management and Recycling: Educational sessions were conducted to teach residents about reducing, reusing, and recycling waste. Practical demonstrations helped participants understand how to manage waste sustainably, promoting cleaner living conditions.

Objectives

1. Raise Environmental Awareness: Educate refugees about the importance of environmental conservation and the impact of human activities on the planet.

2. Enhance Community Involvement: Foster a sense of community and collective responsibility among refugees through participation in environmental activities.

3. Improve Living Conditions: Enhance the quality of life in refugee camps by creating greener, cleaner, and more sustainable living environments.

Impacts

1. Environmental Benefits: The initiative aimed to reduce waste, improve air and water quality, and increase green spaces within the camp, contributing to a healthier environment.

2. Long-term Sustainability: By promoting sustainable practices, the initiative aimed to inspire long-lasting changes in behavior and attitudes towards the environment, benefiting both current and future generations.

3. Community Strengthening: Collaborative projects fostered a sense of unity and cooperation among refugees, helping to build stronger, more resilient communities.

Conclusion

The World Environment Day activities in Domiz Camp 2 highlighted the importance of integrating environmental conservation into the daily lives of refugees. The success of this initiative demonstrates the potential for similar programs to enhance sustainability and improve living conditions in other refugee camps. Harikar Outreach, CwC, and UNHCR remain committed to supporting these efforts, recognizing that sustainable practices are essential for the well-being of all communities.